My Cousin Vinny

Dear York Students,

My Cousin Vinny is one of my favorite movies of all time.  It’s an oldie (it premiered in 1992), but a goodie! On the surface, it’s a comedy, but it has a serious message too. What I’ve always loved about it is this: Vinny is underestimated from the moment he walks into the courtroom. He doesn’t look the part. He doesn’t sound the part. And people assume that means he doesn’t belong there. (By the way his girlfriend Mona Lisa isn’t all that she seems either—but you have to watch the movie and see for yourself).

But despite the assumptions, Vinny wins his case.  He wasn’t flashy, but he was prepared. He paid attention, he knew the facts and he stood his ground even when others doubted him.

I don’t know about you, but I know exactly how Vinny felt.  I have been underestimated and there are spaces that others didn’t think I belonged in. 

As you start the homestretch to the end of the semester, you might be feeling this way as well.

Spring Break starts this week.  Deadlines are real. Fatigue is real. Self-doubt can creep in. But Cardinals, whatever you do. . . DO NOT confuse being tired with being incapable.You are more than capable.  

You are more than enough.  You belong in college and you belong at York! You will earn your college degree, and you will do even greater things in the future.  

Stay focused.

Conyinuing Students:  before you go on Spring Break, set yourself up by registering for the fall semester.  Log in on Wednesday (4/1/26) to VREADY our Virtual Registration Enrollment and ADvisement session and register for your fall classes.

Soon to be Graduates:  Guess what?  I have 60 more days until I can call you My York College Graduates!

Let’s get it Cardinals!!!!

President Schrader