Since joining Oakland University this summer, I have been grateful for the warm welcome from students, faculty and staff. So many people have taken the time to introduce themselves, share their experiences and help me feel like part of the OU community. I want to thank everyone who has made my transition to Oakland such a positive experience.<\/p>\n
As I reflect on my first few months at OU, I have come to appreciate what makes this university special: the people who are part of it. I especially want to thank the students involved in the Center for Multicultural Initiatives<\/a> (CMI), Housing and Residential Life<\/a>, club sports<\/a>, the Student Activity Fund Assessment Committee<\/a> (SAFAC) and our fraternities and sororities<\/a>, along with the many other students who have stopped me on campus to introduce themselves. Those conversations have helped me feel welcomed and learn more about what makes OU special.<\/p>\n Whether you are in your first semester or preparing to graduate, I want you to know that you belong at Oakland University. Each of you brings different experiences, perspectives and interests to our campus. You are an important part of what makes OU special.<\/p>\n I also recognize that finding your place in college is not always easy. Some of you are adjusting to a new environment, making friends, balancing work and family responsibilities or questioning whether you have what it takes to be successful. At times, it may seem like everyone around you has already figured things out.<\/p>\n I can assure you that many of your peers have experienced those same feelings. It takes time to find your place, and that is okay.<\/p>\n With that in mind, I want to share three pieces of advice with you.<\/p>\n Ask Questions<\/p>\n Be curious about the people around you. Introduce yourself to someone in class. Ask what brought them to Oakland, what they enjoy studying or what they hope to do after graduation. You might discover something in common or learn from a different experience.<\/p>\n Ask to understand, not to debate or prove a point. We will not always agree, and that is okay. Listening to different perspectives helps us grow. Bring that curiosity into the classroom, too. Raise your hand when you have a question; chances are someone else is wondering the same thing.<\/p>\n A simple conversation can lead to a friendship, an opportunity or a new way of seeing the world.<\/p>\n Ask for Help<\/p>\n I have always believed that successful people are willing to ask for help. They recognize that they do not have all the answers and understand the importance of seeking advice and learning from others.<\/p>\n Even at this stage of my life and career, I continue to seek guidance from mentors in different areas of my life, including my career, finances, family and personal development. I value their experiences and perspectives because they help me think through challenges and make better decisions.<\/p>\n There will be times during your college experience when you struggle with a class, experience personal challenges or feel overwhelmed by everything you are trying to balance. When that happens, I encourage you to reach out to someone.<\/p>\n Visit your professors during office hours, even if it is just to introduce yourself or learn more about a subject that interests you. Connect with the Counseling Center if you need someone to talk to. If you live on campus, get to know your resident assistant and the staff in Housing and Residential Life.<\/p>\n I also want you to know that you do not need to wait until something becomes a serious problem before asking for help. Whether you are struggling in a class or dealing with something in your personal life, reaching out early can help you address a concern before it becomes more difficult.<\/p>\n As a university, we have a responsibility to make sure students know what resources are available and feel comfortable using them. We want you to take advantage of the people and services here to support your success.<\/p>\n