By Samille Taylor, Resident Assistant and New Student Mentor, Endicott College Class of 2013

With Summer Orientation right around the corner there are many things going through my mind. This is my first year being a New Student Mentor (NSM) and I must admit that I am somewhat nervous. Thinking back to my orientation and the things that made it so special, I want to be able to do the same for the hundreds of freshmen that will be here July 8th – 9th. Orientation is an experience that words really cannot describe, a feeling that only the heart can feel; it is unforgettable. Each student will be just as nervous as the next but, hopefully, excited for the most amazing two days of their summer vacation. These two days are vital because it will set the tone for the school year ahead. There will be crazy games, many laughs, awkward questions, and a start to beautiful friendships. As a New Student Mentor it is my job to bring the fun and give the students advice on how to make their freshman year count. I will also be able to use my freshmen year as an example of what NOT to do. I think that my position as a Resident Assistant (RA) as well as a student teacher for Endicott Transitions (EC 101) will also be very beneficial to the incoming freshmen. There are still a few things that need to be done to prepare for Summer Orientation but I know that the outcome will be wonderful. My fellow New Student Mentors and I got this position because we all want to be role models, resources, confidants and, most importantly, the first impression of current EC students to the newest flock of Gulls. I look forward to meeting the class of 2015 and hope that they are just as excited to meet us. So, with all this being said, let the countdown to Summer Orientation begin!

"Samille Taylor - Junior in College. English Literature Major. Education Minor. Writer. Poet. Individual. Me. My life is a metaphor waiting to be explored."