The commencement of a new school year can in many cases be very exciting for people, but for others it could be fearful. What I mean by that is that those who are returning students at college institutions feel excited to return to see there long time friends and to readjust to what they are already exposed to while for new incoming students there are some fears and worries of not fitting in or being too homesick. As all of that could be very true here at Southern Vermont College those fears and worries are forgotten in just a few hours to a few days.
The ball has started rolling at SVC as of August 31st, 2015. It is now the ending of day two of the fall semester. There is still a lot left of the semester to go and piles of homework have already grown for many students here, but that does not say that there is not things on campus to do to help one de-stress for example, we just wrapped up The Convocation as well as the Student Government Association BBQ.
The Convocation featured three speakers, Provost Jay White, Student Government President Jamal Gaynor, and President David Evans. All welcomed the new students and returning students and represented Southern Vermont College in a different but moving way. Jamal Gaynor perfectly summed up how most first year students feel at the start of the school year by connecting how he felt when he was one, saying, “I didn’t interact and speak with many other students or faculty, but one thing I realized after being at school for a few weeks, is that coming to college is a time to make changes for yourself.” He also used the quote “Don’t count the days, make the days count”. His speech welcomed the incoming students and reminded them to cherish every moment and take every opportunity so when it comes to graduation you can look back on your time at SVC and feel accomplished. President Evans also had an interesting speech when he emphasized the idea that at Southern Vermont College we are a community. He said, “The freedom we seek for you is freedom within a community.” The Student Government Association BBQ followed Convocation with good food, music, and games. Returning students got a chance to catch up with friends and new students as well as meet new people. Overall, Convocation and the SGA Barbecue made for a good start to the new semester.
Event Photos:
President David Evans and Student Government President Jamal Gaynor
Student Government President Jamal Gaynor
Students talking and enjoying the barbecue
Students enjoying the view at the SGA BBQ
Students eating and talking at SGA BBQ
Students playing games at SGA BBQ