New Year, New Beginnings

By Dorothy J. Hill

The first few weeks of the fall semester have already come and gone. Residents were all moved in between the Thursday and Sunday prior to the first day. First year students had the opportunity to attend the “New Student Induction Ceremony” here all new students whether an undergraduate freshman, transfer, adult, or grad—received a medallion and accepted their duty/responsibility to be one of the thousands of students to attend SXU for their education. Students, parents, faculty and staff attended this ceremony which marked a major turning point in everyone’s lives. Everyone was welcomed with a speech from our president, Christine Wiseman, J.D.

To make the decision on what institution you attend for post-secondary education requires a great deal of consideration. There are many factors to keep in mind such as:

• Location/Environment


• Cost/Affordability


• Programs/Degrees


• Opportunities for Leadership and Growth


• Student resources

It’s rather intriguing to experience growth, especially at a great place like Saint Xavier. No one institution is perfect, but there are so many wonderful people who strive to make sure everything is where it needs to be and that there are resources available for students. You have the Center for Student Development located behind Pacelli Hall which houses Counseling and Career Services. Student are welcome to go there for many things such as counseling, if you ever feel too stressed or overwhelmed and need someone to talk to, you can speak with a counselor confidentially or utilize Career Services for assistance with finding a job, creating or editing a resume and/or cover letter, along with many internships through various departments.

There’s also the Learning Center and Disability Services lab/center in the Warde Academic Center located in room L108. Students are welcome to go there for assistance with papers, tutoring in many subjects, with the exception of math. They offer tutoring through their department. In addition to their walk-in services, students may also submit papers through the Online Writing Lab.

If you haven’t already updated your Cougar Card, make sure you stop by the Office of Student Affairs in Room L208 by October 1. The Cougar Card has been redesigned and SXU has a new bank partnership with PNC bank. Students have the opportunity to connect their PNC checking account to their Cougar Card and use it as an actual debit card. If you don’t have an account with PNC, opening it is really simple.

The first week of classes always serves to be a little rough for all students. For the first-year, you’re trying to figure out where your classes are, see where you fit in the mix, and figure out what SXU has to offer. If you are a returning student, you are trying to get a steady rotation and routine going with classes, work, and home. Whether you’re an incoming freshman, transfer, adult student or a returning student, this year marked a new beginning in your life., and for some of us, this is our last semester or if you’re like me, your last year!

If you ever feel frustrated or dissatisfied with anything on campus, whether it be classes or a university service, SAY SOMETHING! You DO have a voice here, and to be more than a number, it takes a collective effort on your part as a student and those who work for the university. Don’t just complain. Take action and make a difference! It’s your money (for the most part) that’s being spent, so make it count! Have fun, be engaged, get involved and be the change you want to see.

Dorothy J. Hill is a senior from Chicago, IL. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance. Dorothy is a Student Ambassador and currently serves as the Training Coordinator at Saint Xavier.