Dean Tuttle's Trinitoninan Columns

Dean's List

<< PREVIOUS | HOME

August 22, 2003

NEXT >>

Fellow students offer advice

Over the last two years, I have asked some of our outstanding seniors to offer advice for new Trinity students. In reviewing their insights, I have identified some common elements. I share their wisdom with you and wish you success and happiness with your Trinity experience.

Family matters

“Students are adults, but we’ve entered a new stage of life where we can either grow away from or closer to the most important adults in our lives: our parents. Keep in touch with your parents, not just ritualistically calling them, but really keep in touch.”

“They’re the people that will be with you even after Trinity is gone.”

Success isn’t an accident

“When I came to college, I thought about how I wanted to be remembered and thought of by others – peers and administration – I made a list, and then I set the goals to make that reputation happen.”

“I decided from the beginning that I was going to put myself in the experience of school and friends here 100 percent. If I was given an opportunity to work with a professor, I took it. If someone extended themselves to me, I got to know them.”

“It is necessary to take time every once in a while and evaluate your efforts. For example, do you have the GPA you desire? Do you have friends you can depend on? Are you certain about your major? What one thing could you change that would make you happier?

Remember your values

“Hold on to the core values that you know in your heart are the good and true things in the world. There are some things you learn or grow up with that just stick with you. Your life will change, some of your views will change, but those core values will always be with you. Don’t be afraid, though, to admit that something you might have believed could be wrong.”

Social Life

“Alcohol is a big presence when you’re in college. People do it, people don’t, but the most important thing is to be smart about it. Don’t think because you do or you don’t you’re going to be more popular or have more friends. Alcohol is a drink. It’s not some magical potion that will give you what you’re looking for.”

Perspective

“No matter what happens, remember that tomorrow’s another day. College is a great time of trial and triumph. My first semester at Trinity, I walked away with four “A”s and one “D.” I learned more in that semester than the other seven combined. Failure is part of the process and must be accepted.”

“Students are adults, but we’ve entered a new stage of life where we can either grow away from or closer to the most important adults in our lives: our parents. Keep in touch with your parents, not just ritualistically calling them, but really keep in touch."

Truth

“Remember you are an adult who has things to teach the other adults around you (students, faculty and administration), but they are also adults, some for far longer than you, and have many things to teach as well. By this I mean: keep your opinions unique. Trinity did not recruit “yes-men” for its students or leaders or athletes. However, remember everyone else can have similarly unique opinions; so shut up, listen, and bring your own unique experience and acceptance to it.”

Activities

“Get involved, but only get involved with something if you can give something to it.”

HOME | TRINITY | TRINITONIAN

Webmaster: Jason Bullock