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What a winter wonderland we had for a few days! Now that we have experienced our first snowfall and daylight saving time has ended, we are really feeling the changing of the seasons. And with fall break just around the corner, you have some well-deserved time off coming up. This is a great time to rest, recharge and reflect on your experience so far this academic year.  

In your academic programs, you are gaining the skills and knowledge you need to achieve your post-graduation goals. Strengths like problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration and communication are qualities that employers look for in potential candidates and apply to all jobs and industries. Additionally, there are many options outside of the classroom from the Division of Student Affairs to amplify your learning, gain professional skills and prepare for life after college. These include but are not limited to: 

• Joining a leadership program, like ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä GOLD or the Journey Leaders team. 
• Participating on a student board or committee, like the Dean of Students Leadership & Values Council. 
• Getting involved with ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä Student Government. 
• Volunteering in your community or taking an Alternative Breaks trip with your peers. 

Working a part-time job on campus is a great way to get hands-on experience, develop foundational skills and learn more about yourself. You can find positions that match your interests in many of our departments. There are other benefits to working on campus as well. First, student employment at our university offers flexibility. Many student jobs allow you to work around your class schedule and other commitments, and adjust your workload during final exams. In addition, on-campus employment allows you to make valuable connections with your co-workers and supervisor. I know many students who have become good friends with their fellow Buffs at their part-time job. Your supervisor can become a mirror for you and serve as a mentor, and potentially a professional reference later. 

When it comes to your plans for spring, I strongly encourage you to seek out ways you can continue to grow that complement what you are accomplishing in your courses. One of the perks of being a Buff is the variety of transformative opportunities available to you, from your first year to your final year at ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä. 

Whether it is an on-campus job, volunteering, joining a leadership program or participating on a student board, these transformative opportunities can lead to a defining moment that shapes your college experience and influences your future. You can use your fall break to explore options and take advantage this spring.  

Buffs, I truly hope you have a safe and relaxing fall break. Take care of yourselves, and I will see you around campus when you return for the final few weeks of the semester. 

Warmly,
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs