Let me be among the many to welcome you to St. Louis and to Washington University! Very soon we will be welcoming you in person as the newest members of our Wash. U. community. You’re coming at a very exciting time. However, if I’m perfectly honest with myself, I think each year has been very exciting.this year is just more so with a couple of new twists.
First, you’ll get here in time for the opening of the new Danforth University Center, and I hope this will become your second home after your residential college. Second, the presidential campaign season is only beginning, and come October 2 at 8 p.m., Wash. U. will be hosting the vice presidential debate right in our very own Athletic Complex. You’ll have the opportunity to apply to be a volunteer for this event and you’ll be able to put your name in a lottery for any debate tickets that we may receive from the Commission on Presidential Debates.
We want and need you, now more than ever, to get involved. Make connections, find your niche and give and receive during your time here. As assistant vice chancellor for students and the director of campus life, the areas I work most closely with focus on involvement, service, and leadership-primarily outside of the classroom. More importantly, my colleagues and I want to create a seamless living/learning environment. I work with many folks who have adopted the following mission: To build and sustain an undergraduate experience of exceptional quality where students, who are known by name and story, prepare themselves for lives of purpose and meaning. We’re here to assist you.
I know everyone from your parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, high school counselors, friends and even strangers you meet as you shop for extra-long fitted sheets are more than willing and ready to give you advice as you plan your trek to St. Louis. I am no exception. I can’t resist the urge because I, like others who care about you, want all your adjustments to be smooth and relatively painless. As I begin my twelfth year, I am still amazed at the role students play in making this a great place to live, learn and work.
Here’s my top ten list for becoming a part of the community and leaving your mark on this campus. Some may not make sense until you arrive.
1) Introduce yourself to at least two new people each day; start early to adopt this habit. Ask someone to share a meal with you; don’t be shy.
2) Do not pass “GO,” do not call home before getting your academic life in order. Get to know your academic advisor, resident advisor and all others who offer assistance. All of them can become resources and support for you.
3) Once you’re satisfied with your class schedule and have gone to your first classes, get in the habit of finding a quiet, comfortable place to study. I strongly advise that you visit Cornerstone, the Center for Advanced Learning.
4) Attend all Orientation sessions. You’ll learn lots, meet others and have fun along the way. Don’t miss “SUp All Night” on August 24-to be explained at a later date.
5) Don’t forget, Orientation does not stop when classes begin. A group of students and staff are already planning events and activities to keep you busy during “your first 40 days and 40 nights” here; you’ll also learn more about this once you arrive.
6) Sign-up for Service First. It’s a day of service in the St. Louis Public Schools, only open to new students, taking place the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend-August 30. You’ll have fun volunteering with classmates at one of the public schools and attending a BBQ and community service fair.
7) Get off campus-you don’t need a car. Shopping malls, movie theaters, grocery stores and restaurants are readily available via the MetroLink, not to mention what’s within walking distance-the Loop and all that Forest Park contains.
8) Be sure and stop by the Activities Fair on Wednesday, September 3 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in Brookings Quad. The majority of student organizations will have tables and will be recruiting new members. They want you!
9) Take care of your health. That includes SLEEP. Too many students think they will catch up on their sleep during Fall Break or Thanksgiving. Your body simply doesn’t work that way, no matter how hard you try.
10) Finally, take a deep breath, enjoy yourself and savor all of the newness of attending Wash. U. and having the chance to leave your mark on this place. Be confident of your choice; and remember, we want you to succeed.
If there is any way I can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me: [email protected] or 314.935.5022. See you soon!
Jill Carnaghi is vice-chancellor for students. She can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].