Sense of Belonging

Transcript

Let’s meet Hannah, a senior creative writing, publishing, and editing double major. She found a sense of belonging here- a university that continually renews its commitment to being a place where every student feels seen, supported, and safe. Elected to multiple leadership positions, Hannah’s been recognized not only for her talents, but also for her potential. Hannah, you are on.

Hi Alex. I’m from a small town where everybody knows everybody. I grew up in a predominantly white neighborhood and went to a predominantly white high school. I wondered if Susquehanna would be a similar experience and if it would be difficult to find my sons of community as a Black woman. My worries disappeared when I spoke to Monica Prince, a Black creative writing professor; she said that S.U. is constantly taking steps to increase diversity on campus and create space for minority students, cultivating community and celebrating their identities. Many of the faculty strive to ensure that every student matters. That translates to the many opportunities offered in humanities at S.U., which faculty help connect students to. Thanks to my professor in the English department, Dr. Heather Lang, last year I served as the editor-in-chief of the Common Reading Program, which oversees the creation of an annual anthology for first-year students. Without that experience, I wouldn’t have been able to serve in the other leadership positions I hold now, including as the Board of Trustees’ senior student representative and as the managing editor of “Flagship,” S.U.’s on-campus travel magazine. Additionally, I’ve served as the director of F.U.S.E, which is the Forum for Undergraduate Student Editors. The national organization discusses and challenges many topics facing the literary world. F.U.S.E. will be on a panel in Washington this spring at one of the biggest writing conferences in the U.S. If it weren’t for S.U. and the support we receive from English and Creative writing faculty, none of this would’ve been possible. Susquehanna is a community of passionate students, faculty, and staff determined to help everyone reach their fullest potential. They help me realize that even I, as a female student of color, can make a difference on campus and be recognized for my potential. That’s my story! Back to you, Alex.

Hannah, the impact you’ve had on Susquehanna and Susquehanna on you really comes through. Your story shows how students can find their sense of belonging at S.U. through the opportunities for leadership and growth and with the support from caring faculty. Thanks for sharing.