A Community With Values

Transcript

Let me introduce you to Haley an academic go-getter who cares deeply about community. Haley is a psychological science major with three minors. The skills and preparation Haley is getting will set her up for success. Success also comes with feeling accepted and connected. Haley, please tell us your story.

– Thanks Alex and hi everyone. For me, when I was looking for a college I knew I needed a place that challenged me academically, but also supported me to be and become my best self. At UVM, I found a perfect balance In terms of challenge, along with my major, I also have three minors because my interests are intersecting but also broad. UVM has the depth to support the full range of my interests. Openness and respect are two defining UVM values. You see them in our campus traditions. One of my favorites is our twilight induction on the UVM Green. Every new student takes a pledge to value respect, responsibility, openness, justice, integrity and innovation. We call this pledge our common ground. That welcome meant a lot to me as a new student, particularly as someone who identifies as gay, because it really represents how open-minded the UVM community truly is. Campus identity centers and student groups do that too. They support and raise awareness and appreciation for different cultures, religions, histories and identities. Some favorite campus traditions have grown from these groups, like the Black Student Union Fashion Show, Diwali Night, and our Prism Center’s Rainbow Graduation. Another defining value at UVM is Environmental Awareness and Action. UVM students have led initiatives like eliminating the distribution of bottled water on campus and terminating university investment in fossil fuel enterprises. At UVM, every student takes a course about sustainability during their time here. No matter who you are or where you’re from you can definitely find your place here at UVM. Our student body is a welcoming and supportive group who are passionate and are always ready to do more and learn more to better our community and our world. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.

– Haley, your appreciation for this community is so compelling. From what you shared, it makes so much sense that UVM is a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers and the alma mater of Environmental leaders and Nobel Peace Laureates. Thank you Haley for sharing your story with us.