THE past week at Monroe College has been packed with activities to keep students busy and meeting Monroe’s declared commitment of providing not only “a challenging academic environment” but also “create a uniquely supportive atmosphere that stresses respect and collegiality among student, faculty and staff”.
Monroe College – whether at campuses in St. Lucia or in New York – prides itself as an institution that goes the extra mile in creating a campus that is “a vibrant place for learning”.
Last Wednesday was “THINK PINK” day – to raise awareness for breast cancer. This is an initiative of the Public Health degree students. The day also marked the launching of the Public Health Students Association. There was a flurry of activities, including testing and talks by invited health professionals from several health organisations, the screening of videos and healthy exchanges among students about their own wellness.
Last week saw the beginning of the Entrepreneurs Club. The new club is all about the empowerment of budding and future entrepreneurs. Faculty adviser, Mr. Brent St. Catherine, says the overall mission of the Club is to “help members (students) with ideas for start-ups and grow them into sustainable businesses.” He added: “We also encourage social responsibility and the spirit of giving back.” Part of the mandate of this new club is to organise activities that will enhance the classroom/academic experiences for business degree students. The club is already busy planning its first activity.
Coordinator of Students Services, Ms. Aritha Francis, believes that on-campus clubs are a fantastic way for students to build their social networking skills and add value to their degrees, in keeping with Monroe’s REAL WORLD EDUCATION philosophy. She said:“it is a powerful testimony that students themselves see the significance of being involved in various on-campus clubs. We are just so happy that students are taking initiatives in mobilising other students and form organisations that impact on their education and enhance learning.” Another very active club is the Criminal Justice Club.
On Thursday students participated in a “Dress for Success” seminar which was organised by the Office of Career Advancement (OCA). Students heard special presentations on employment/career-related topics which were all geared to help them improve their marketability as they prepare for applying for jobs and internships. One requirement of the seminar was that students dress in business attire, as they would for a job interview. The highlight of the day was a “Dress to Impress” fashion show where students competed for special prizes. Judges comprised faculty and guests who selected Ms. Anya Edwin and Mr. Kurneil Lynch – both business students – as the winners.
As October came to a close, the Monroe College family joined in the celebration of Jounen Kweyol, but added a twist by organising an International Food Fair where students from over 17 countries wore national costumes, displayed literature and showed videos highlighting their countries’ beaut. The campus was alive with the sounds of music and abuzz with laughter and excitement as students and faculty ate, danced, sang and had an overwhelmingly wonderful time.
