Graduation Q&A Session for Freshmen
Building a Sense of Community at Holy Cross
The campus of Holy Cross is renowned for its vibrant and supportive community, particularly for freshmen students. This sense of belonging is fostered through a variety of social, spiritual, and wellness-oriented initiatives.
Social and Community-building Events
One of the key factors that contribute to this welcoming environment is the organizing of inclusive and inviting events. These gatherings, such as game nights, ultimate frisbee, barbecues, and cultural celebrations like J'ouvert, provide opportunities for students to casually meet and bond [2][3]. These events not only bring students together but also allow them to share traditions and enjoy communal festivities.
Shared Campus Life
The natural campus environment plays a significant role in creating a sense of community. Students attend classes together, live in dormitories, and dine in common halls. These shared experiences facilitate frequent informal interactions, helping freshmen easily integrate into community life by meeting peers on a daily basis [2].
Spiritual and Faith-based Programs
As a Catholic institution, Holy Cross places a strong emphasis on faith-centered community building. Freshmen participate in regular prayer, Mass, retreats, and other spiritual activities. These activities not only nurture individual faith but also create a sense of belonging through shared religious practice [4][5].
Athletics and Wellness Facilities
Quality athletic and wellness spaces, like the Hart Center and Field House, support student life by promoting physical health and team activities. These spaces offer venues for varsity and intramural sports, fitness training, and group events, which are vital for building community spirit and connections among students [1].
These elements combined create a welcoming, supportive environment that makes the transition to college smoother for freshmen and cultivates a vibrant campus community at Holy Cross.
Reflections from the Class of 2028
Emily Carbone '28, the Features Editor at Holy Cross, served as the class president of the Class of 2028 during their first year. Michael Kieyah, who served as Vice-President, has learned to be more open-minded, which helped him gain opportunities at Holy Cross. Matt Hollatz, the treasurer, has learned to be more self-manageable and organized in making his own schedule.
The transitions to college for the Class of 2028 helped them establish their goals, find their place in the community, and allow them to find their rhythms in their academic and social lives. Ashley Stracco, another member of the student government, attributes the community feeling of Holy Cross to events like Battle of the Bands and Noche Latina.
The class of 2028 student government members emphasize the importance of getting involved in campus clubs and activities. They advise students to put themselves out there socially, extracurricularly, and academically. Matt Hollatz values his circle of friends who have served as his rocks throughout the school year. Michael Kieyah finds his friends to be a source of support, and Ashley Stracco believes she has become more of an extrovert and has bettered her leadership skills since arriving on campus.
In conclusion, the campus of Holy Cross offers a nurturing environment that helps freshmen students feel at home. Through social, spiritual, and wellness-oriented initiatives, students are able to build strong connections with their peers, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.
- The events at Holy Cross, such as game nights, cultural celebrations, and Battle of the Bands, facilitate shared experiences and personal growth among students, promoting a sense of community on campus.
- In addition to social events, the natural campus environment, including shared classrooms, dormitories, and dining halls, encourages daily interactions among students, helping them build connections and integrate into the community.
- Alumni, like Emily Carbone '28, Michael Kieyah, and Matt Hollatz, underscore the importance of getting involved in campus clubs and activities, which helped them find their places in the community, develop their leadership skills, and form strong friendships.
- Holy Cross' emphasis on education and self-development is reflected in the personal growth experienced by students, who learn to be more open-minded, self-manageable, and extroverted, enhancing their leadership abilities.
- Through spiritual and faith-based programs, the campus community at Holy Cross strengthens bonds among students, nurturing individual faith and creating a sense of belonging through shared religious practice.
