Finding Your Voice in Campus Life

Transcript

Next up everyone, Ray Vincent, a senior television and digital media major with a minor in art and design studio. He is a proud Filipino American from Washington DC. Transferring to Montclair, Ray discovered more than 120 organizations, student government, academic clubs, the student newspaper and radio station, Greek life and artistic, spiritual, political, issues oriented and cultural and community service organizations. Absolutely amazing, Ray, please take it away.

– Thanks Alex, what a great introduction. Growing up, I’ve always been passionate about the arts of television and filmmaking. However, when I transferred to Montclair State University, I discovered the passion for higher education. What attracted me to Montclair State University was the many opportunities it offers to students. Since I transferred here, I have been privileged enough to become a resident assistant where I can create a safe space for first year students, and also be a shoulder for them to lean on if a problem comes up. I’m also teaching assistant for the university of school of communication. We’re called University Fellows. We do not only create lesson plans for first year students, but we also mentor and provide them resources so they can thrive on campus. Through these different leadership roles, I have been able to create lifelong connections with my coworkers and supervisors, who I look up to as parental figures. This year, I decide to participate in a different leadership role, the Student Government Association. And now I serve as a director of outreach. Through this leadership role, I hope to advocate for the students, shedding a light to the issues that the student body has, and bridging the gap between campus administrators and student life. My experiences here has not only help me be a better student, but also be a better person. I hope to help and leave a positive impact in people’s lives. I don’t know exactly where I’m headed, but I do hope to pursue a master’s in higher education. What’s next, Alex.

– Ray, you’ve made a positive impact at Montclair. The very definition of the involved student. Coming to Montclair, you too have the opportunities to lead, make friends and experience college at its fullest. Thank you, Ray, for sharing your story, take care.