First Year Experience and Beyond

BY DAVID MEISTER Staff Wrtier

The transition to college from high school is never an easy task, but Saint Rose has one man that helps make that change more comforting for first year students. Joachim Koka is someone almost every freshman or transfer will interact with.

In their first year, students will realize that Koka is more than just the First-Year Programs Coordinator, but a resource that any student, of any class, can use and create a friend for the rest of their college career and beyond. While his primary goal is to help first year students navigate the first-year experience, he is also team meetings and leadership training days where they set SMART goals and action steps to succeed as well as identify their passion. Watching these broadcasts, Koka has gained some insight and life lessons to take with him going forward.

"The speakers provide great input and experience, said Koka. "You get some real gems from them.” His personal favorite speaker was John Maxwell, a nationally recognized speaker and author who focuses on leadership development.

Koka described the leadership society and its Leadership Training Day (LTD), a component all members have to complete, as something missing from today’s high school edu- ily-oriented,” said Kingsean while students were singing and dancing on the dance floor. The music consisted of current songs that students knew and it provided the opportunity for them to convince their friends and family to dance with them.

The room was decorated with various country flags hanging along the wall. Tables were decorated with tablecloths and distinguished by pictures of different countries.

“It's nice to know a different culture, and learn and try new foods,” said Wasan Junaah, an Iraqi mother whose son attends the school. Junaah explained she was excited to attend the event that celebrated different cultures.

Food was provided by a potluck at the event. Families brought many different foods from all different cultures for everyone to try out and enjoy.

After dinner, all students had the opportunity to try their hand at being the DJ. Students jumped at the chance and learned how to use the turn-table while their peers danced to the music.

Toward the end of the evening winners of a raffle were announced. Everyone waited eagerly to hear who won. Raffle proceeds went to the Humane Society. Three families excitedly claimed their prizes before the night was over.

Energy remained high in the room as attendees participated in salsa dancing. Students, faculty, and parents all filled the dance floor as the night was wrapping up.

Cutural differences brought the community together for the night and showed how diverse communities can come together. “We have to accept everyone’s differences and what they bring to the table,” said Raquel Parker, a faculty volunteer who helped organize the evening.

The evening’s participants were appreciative that there was an event that celebrates the diverse community of students at the school.

Faculty volunteers helped in many ways from serving the food, managing activity tables, and setting up. Faculty volunteer Lisa Shine helped to organize the night’s festivities.

“The event helps [families] to know we are supportive to the local community,” said Shine.