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New Cardinals Poised to Soar after Orientation at York

Spring 2025’s New Student Orientation at York College was a day filled with excitement for incoming freshmen and transfer students, as they prepare to launch or continue their college education.

The new cohort was welcomed with essential information packets and encouraged to seek help early, as they listened to presentations from various offices and centers across campus. Dr. Karen Williams, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, was amongst those who greeted them.

new student getting info

“I [am] thrilled to welcome our newest Cardinals and their families and look forward to seeing them you throughout the semester,” said Vice President Williams. “[Remember,] faculty and staff are here to support your success and answer any questions you may have. Seek help early if you need anything.”

“Seek help” became the rallying cry of the day as speaker after speaker emphasized its importance to the eager group of students.

“You are not alone at York College,” said Dr. Truet Vaigneur, adjunct lecturer in Behavioral Sciences and CUNY LEADS Specialist at York. “We have a lot of resources here—use them.”

A student panel of mentors encouraged incoming students to “join a mentorship program.” The panel, moderated by Roosevelt Smith, CUNY BMI director at York, addressed key questions such as “How important is mentorship for first-generation college students?” and “What are the advantages of seeking support early?” The panelists then shared valuable insights to benefit the incoming Cardinals.

Kim Melendez, director of the Counseling Center, presented the many resources available through the center, including Teletherapy 24/7, yoga, a meditation room, and a massage chair, among others. Meanwhile, Mondell Sealy, manager of Career Services, discussed the importance of registering with Career Services to start preparing for internships.

new students taking notes

“Internships help you focus on your career goals, explore your interests, and build a competitive resume,” said Sealy. “They also allow you to learn about specific industries, develop professionalism, and hone marketable skills.”

Shayla Pruitt, director of First Year Experience and Mentoring, expressed excitement over the enthusiastic participation of the incoming undergraduates.

“I was thrilled to see 110 new faces at the spring New Student Orientation,” said Pruitt. “Incoming students heard welcoming remarks from Vice President Karen Williams and AVP James Salnave of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management before engaging with representatives from Advisement, Financial Aid, Counseling, the Center for Students with Disabilities, Career Services, and student mentors from our virtual mentorship program, The Cardinal Collective. Students also had the opportunity to speak with faculty from seventeen academic departments and over twenty student support service areas. It was a fantastic way to kick off the spring term.”

But it wasn’t all meetings and information packets. The college also fueled the youngsters with an enjoyable box lunch and other goodies to get them through the day.