Over 40 graduate and undergraduate students in the Urban Affairs and Geography and Master of Public Administration programs joined faculty and staff, along with special guest Dean Kristin Sobolik, for orientation on August 21, 2014.
The evening began with an optional discussion in the Dunbar Library, with librarian Terese Desimio. Terese is an invaluable help for students needing assistance with library resources and services, including literature searches. When students are stumped, Terese comes to the rescue!
The orientation continued with all students meeting in Rike Hall for refreshments and networking. Everyone introduced themselves, and had the chance to tell us where they worked, what their undergraduate degree was and where it was earned, as well as when they expected to graduate. We had students ranging from their very first freshman term to their very last MPA semester.
The group then broke out into two sessions, where undergraduates met with new Geography assistant professor Kris Bezdecny, adjunct Martin Kim, and associate professors Jennifer Subban, Marjorie McLellan and Chair Jack Dustin. They learned the importance of internships and making contacts, the necessity of meeting with their advisors, and the benefit of working with Career Services both before and after graduation. Graduate students had the chance to talk with a panel of second and third year graduate students: Elyse Giardullo, Ethan Harris, Lizz Kelly, and Missi McCarthy. Hopefully, their fears were alleviated and they’re looking forward to the next couple of years!
Several door prizes of various Wright State gear were given out to those in attendance, including decals, lanyards, notebooks, and water bottles. We hope the students are excited to begin this new academic year!
