Let’s Talk Academics

Transcript

Next up, Natalya, a freshman from Oakland, New Jersey, Natalya came to Montclair, not yet decided on a major. She got a jump start on her freshman year at a summer bridge program that helped incoming student with college preparedness, and engage them in a full spectrum of tutoring and campus activities. Take it away Natalya.

– I’m a freshman at Montclair State University. I’m fluent in Spanish, and currently learning ASL. Music, theater and art are very important aspects of my life. I am a presidential scholar and an honor student. And I haven’t declared a major, but I’m confident that Montclair State will give me the opportunities to pursue a future in visual and performing arts. One of my favorite things is sharing experiences with other people, and already I felt welcome in the Montclair community. This past summer, I attended the summer bridge program, which helped me feel more prepared to take on college life, and engage with resources and activities on campus. It made the transition very smooth. I’ve made new friends, both those who commute, and those who dorm throughout the year. And it was the smallest interactions that truly meant the most. Taking late night walks around campus, going to the amphitheater and just singing our hearts out. ♪ Let the good go ♪ ♪ Let me give you my life. ♪

– One day I went into the communal kitchen, and people were just cooking, baking pastries and brownies, making popcorn. Someone was even hand rolling their own pasta. And we all shared food together. That sense of community is a part of why I love Montclair so much. The engagement with peers, interaction between staff and students, and huge buffet of academic opportunities is remarkable here. There are over 300 programs across 10 colleges, and your advisors and professors are always striving to push you to be the best student and person you can be. Montclair has a population of just over 21,000 students, but the smaller class sizes make you feel more comfortable and like you’re not alone. I’m very excited for my future classes and involvement on campus. And I know that no matter where my path leads me, Montclair will let me soar. Back to you, Alex.

– Natalya, let’s go Red Hawks. Let me see if I have this right. Pointer finger, middle finger and thumb, hook it like a beak and out. Let’s go Red Hawks. Natalya I love that you’re off to such a great start, best of luck.