Student Trustee: You belong in the classroom and your community

Photo by Jan Kopischke

Hello to my fellow students,

Welcome to fall at Moraine! It is a lovely time watching our campus turn into a wide array of colors. The trees are going through a period of change, preparing for a prosperous future. Tomorrow they will withstand a harsh winter, but after tomorrow, they will stand tall and green again. The same is true for you and me as we earn our degrees. Today, I want to inform you about the importance of prioritizing academics, and being involved with your community.

I understand that many of us have outside responsibilities. It can be challenging as we try to juggle between different tasks. I applaud you on choosing academics to be a commitment in your life.

We offer numerous degrees and academic/career paths. Your degree or your certificate, opens up industries for you. It is a ticket that allows you to enter a new life. To have access to education is a huge privilege. We should make the most of this blessing. I highly recommend prioritizing your academics.

Our campus is full of places where you can study, as Moraine’s buildings have multiple tables and comfortable seating options. We also have outdoor tables if you would like to study outside, such as outside the L building. A hidden gem I would like to highlight is the library study rooms. The library is located in building L, and you can schedule a room in advance of your arrival. You can do so at this website.

But don’t make studying the reason you breathe and sleep! That is a one-way ticket to burnout. I recommend prioritizing academics, but also to balance your life with enjoyable activities. You can catch up on hobbies, as well as get involved with your community. Here, you can make great connections, and join fun social groups. You have the chance to meet people from all walks of life and learn a lot from others. Being an active member of your community brings fulfillment as well.

One way you can get involved is by donating to our food pantry. They accept donations at the Counseling center located in S 202. They cannot store refrigerated or frozen items. The list below includes the types of items they distribute.

Pantry Priority Food Items:

Ready to Eat Meals

• Heat/serve mac and cheese
• Heat/serve soup
• Tuna/chicken/salmon lunch packs

Multi-pack items

• Granola and protein bars
• Oatmeal pouches
• Healthy snacks (nuts, trail mix, popcorn, etc.)
• Fruit cups
• Bottled shelf-stable juices and beverages (no soda, non-perishable)

Other Priority Items

• Canned Soup
• Pasta and Pasta sauce
• Cereal
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Crackers
• Canned fruit
• Canned vegetables
• Canned meats (chicken, tuna)
• Heat/serve rice packs

As the semester goes on, you may find yourself being challenged academically. Seek help at our tutoring center or at our counseling center, connect with faculty during their posted office hours, and look for some resources that could help you. I do my best to highlight resources in my articles.

These semesters fly by, and when you earn your degree, it will all be worth it. Look to our trees for inspiration. Stay rooted, stay strong, grow and flourish with Moraine.