Summer 2011
Residential Colleges seek mentors
Here at Fairfield, one of the major ways we support our students in their own growth and development is through mentoring. Mentors are there to be present, create a safe and trusting space, facilitate "real" discussions and reflections among students, and offer their own perspectives and struggles about living an authentic life.
The Office of Student Development is currently looking for mentors for our five sophomore residential colleges (Creative Life, Environment, Ignatian, Leadership, and Service for Justice). We are seeking adult mentors who are willing to accompany students throughout the year, exploring their sense of vocation, and contribute to building an intentional and meaningful community. Mentors are asked to facilitate conversations with students, reflect on monthly questions, participate in all activities, and seek to empower students to take ownership and leadership roles in and out of the mentoring communities.
Parents, faculty, staff, administrators, graduate students, alumni of a few years, and friends of Fairfield University can mentor. Undergraduate students who have participated in a residential college experience can also assist as student alumni mentors. To apply, visit www.fairfield.edu/ll/ll_mentorapplication.html.
Contact Joseph DeFeo, Director of Living and Learning, at jdefeo@fairfield.edu or call (203) 254-4000 ext. 4053.
Welcome Class of 2015
The Office of New Student Programs recently held two exciting and informative Orientation sessions for the Class of 2015 and their families. The Orientation Team had a tremendous amount of fun interacting with attendees, especially at the parent/guardian informal reception, the Student Life Forum, and the Academic Planning and Financial presentations. Incoming students had an opportunity to experience sample classes as well as register for their fall classes. Students also participated in a couple of new events, such as Fairfield Quest, a group scavenger hunt, as well as spiritual and reflective segments.
Session A |
Session B |
Based on a preliminary parent/guardian assessment, 49% have connected with parents/guardians they would stay in contact with, 93% feel better prepared for their student's arrival in the fall, 84% felt the Orientation experience exceeded their expectations, and 92% feel that because of Orientation, they are more confident with their student's decision to attend Fairfield University.
Based on a preliminary student assessment, 78% have connected with a peer group that they will stay in contact with, 90% feel better prepared for fall arrival, and 77% said Orientation exceeded their expectations.
New Student Programs will now turn their attention to planning Fall Welcome, which will get the new class off to a great start at Fairfield!