Melanie, ‘18 Hometown: East Meadow, NY Major: Biomedical Science Personal Interests: I enjoy hiking, painting my nails, reading, and laying in the sun. I also like to go shopping, do arts and crafts, listen to music, play the flute, hide and go seek, and watch Netflix. Campus Involvement: I am involved in the Marist Band, Campus Ministry, Purple Thread, Red Ink, and Flute Choir. How I Can Help As Your Peer Mentor: As your Peer Mentor, I want to make your transition at Marist as smooth and comfortable as possible. Coming to college is a huge change, and having guidance from a peer who experienced it already is helpful. I wish I had a Peer Mentor to help me adjust to my first semester. I didn't know things, and made mistakes; I want to take what I learned as a freshman, and use it to help you. What I Was Nervous About: I was really afraid of making friends. The first week can be stressful because you're meeting so many new people. I kept my door open so I could start to recognize the faces of the girls living on my floor. I don't know why I was so afraid, because in no time at all, I was making my friends who are my best friends now! What I Was Excited About: I was so excited for the independence, being on my own, and making all these decisions for myself. I did get a little homesick, but that went away fast. Being on my own truly helped me figure time management, and how I work best without having anyone to tell me to study or do assignments. Advice for the Class of 2019: Take time to find the things you love. Dip your feet in all kinds of water to see what feels best! It's a great way to find what you love, its how I picked my major! You will make new friends and learn a lot about yourself. “I am so glad you decided to spend the next four years at Marist. I find it to an awesome place and I never want to leave. I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer! I can't wait to meet you.”