Dear Students,
I want to take this opportunity to welcome you (back) to South Hill and to share how exciting it has been to feel the joy and positive energy on campus as you have moved-in over the past couple weeks. Starting the year without requirements about social distancing, restrictions on group sizes and required surveillance testing feels like a very positive start to what proves to be an exciting 2022-23 academic year.
I urge all of you to fully engage in all the Ithaca College Community has to offer. As someone who has worked on campus for over 30 years, I know that the students that have the most positive experience, and stay through graduation, are those who find a sense of connection at IC. Whether you are a first-year student or returning student there are a few important things you can do to find your “people”, and improve your satisfaction with your IC experience:
- Find an on-campus job – we know this provides an opportunity for you to develop a sense of community with the faculty, staff and/or students in your office. Additionally, you can earn some extra money and learn some marketable skills. View a listing of all on-campus employment opportunities.
- Join at least one student club/organization – you can find a listing of all recognized campus organizations and their contact information at IC Engage. If you are interested in joining a club or organization affiliated with your major or school you can find those at IC Engage too.
- Attend at least one Residence Hall Program - Data from our Quality of Life Survey shows that going to just one program makes a significant difference in your level of satisfaction with on-campus living.
- Join an Intramural Team or Club Sports Team.
- Schedule an appointment or drop by open office hours to meet your academic advisor – even if you don’t have a question right now it is good to begin building a relationship.
Remember there is not just one way to get engaged. You can become a connected part of the community in whatever way works for you. In the meantime, if you need any help please reach out to any of these campus resources:
- Talk to your Residence Assistant
- Meet with your faculty advisor
- Talk to one of our Counseling and Psychological Services Staff
- Contact our new Center for Student Success and Retention at success@ithaca.edu.
Once again, I welcome you to the Ithaca College Community. We are a community that is inclusive, equitable, and welcoming to all individuals. The fabric of our campus is rooted in these values. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to building new connections, being open to understanding the experiences and feelings of others, and treating all members of our community with kindness and respect.
As we get the semester underway, let’s celebrate this moment and commit to taking the actions that will allow you to realize all the amazing opportunities this year has in store.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Solt Prunty
Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Life