“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime.” -Babe Ruth
As of last Tuesday, I didn’t know the Public Square building at Molloy College had a third floor. After climbing the horrid steps in the Kellenberg building, and making the numerous treks across campus that you have to... Why would you want to see the third floor of Public Square? Well, one day while I was on Twitter, I saw a post about an interest meeting for Molloy College’s Student Government. As an incredibly intimidated freshman, I was apprehensive about joining any sorts of clubs or organizations this early on, unsure of what my workload would be like my first semester. However, my curiosity got the best of me, and I decided on a whim to check it out. After reaching the third floor, I was greeted by many friendly faces and the beautiful sound of high-pitched laughter. I was steered into the Student Government office, and I immediately knew by the family-like atmosphere and warm welcome I received, that I'd regret not being involved in such a group.
I attended one of the interest meetings with my friend, Megan. We drove together, so I wouldn't have to worry about sitting next to someone I didn't know. I did sit next to her, but I barely found myself needing to be reassured by her. The meeting had a light, airy sort of feel, and I quickly felt comfortable around the table of people clueing us into the “tell-alls” of MSG. At the table, sat the President of the Student Body, David Seuling, Vice President Ryan Gribbin-Burket, and Secretary Samantha Drexler. They went around, introducing themselves and I was in awe of each accomplishment the group as a whole had achieved. Each individual involved also had their own stories of travel, and life changing experiences. It was astounding to hear, and I found myself aspiring to be just like them.
Molloy Student Government is comprised of different sectors, each with a purpose; the Executive Board, Programming, Community Service, and Academic Programming. I liked the idea of it being run this way, because much like the human body, it cannot operate without its heart, brain, liver, and stomach cooperating. These four sectors work closely together to enhance the experience of students attending the college, promoting involvement and community. For example, the school’s Back to School BBQ and Halloween Party are held by Programming, and the students have enjoyed every second of both, with its attractions and fun activities. There are also five presidents per class; and a separate President, Vice President, Secretary, Student Activities Coordinator, and Treasurer for the entire student body. They oversee everything that happens and work to fund the big events that occur on campus.
Student Government informed us of a lot that day, but the one thing they said that resonated among the rest, was that they act as “the voice” to the Student Body. This mere phrase convinced me to hop on the MSG band wagon and look into a position. I admired their everlasting dedication to representing the student body. The Student Government is comprised of students with the power to utilize what they hear from other students to make the school better, any concerns one may have can be fixed with their help. They work hard to enhance the experience of every student on campus and accommodate their needs. Student Government’s helping hands extend well beyond the area of campus itself, they are always looking to work with different organizations in need of aid. This also appealed to me, because throughout high school I was constantly involved in serving the community. Sitting there, learning about the group as a whole, really conveyed the importance of being a part of a team to me. Each person had a different skillset, and when all of them come together, they form a strong unit with the ability to do anything. I found myself wanting to be part of a team, and I wanted to be a part of this one.
I’m beyond happy I got the guts to attend that first Student Government meeting, because I was lucky enough to survive the campaigning and interview process to make it in. Lucky enough to now be a part of the family that speaks for the students. I now work alongside some of the greatest people on campus, and we all share one common goal: to make Molloy the best it can be. My advice for you all fellow freshmen is to get involved on campus as much as possible; even if you’re a commuter student. Sure, there’s the sheer fact that you want to rush home as quick as possible after class, but I’m telling you; find something you’re interested in, and learn more about it. Join. You’ll be surprised by the wonderful people you meet, and memories you’ll make that can last a lifetime. If there’s one thing I can tell you, it’s that the best part of being alive is feeling a part of something. I’m glad my “something”, is MSG.
