What better way to start off the new school year than a BBQ
filled with food, friends, and new beginnings? The School of
Education held their 5th annual BBQ on Thursday,
September 6th, 2012. One of the main goals of the
SOE BBQ is to help incoming freshman students become acquainted
with the School of Education and St. John’s University as a
whole. Freshmen had the opportunity meet other students who
may be in their upcoming education classes. They also were
able to meet the caring faculty and staff that will help them along
this new and exciting journey.
Another key factor of the BBQ is to introduce each freshman to
their STAR (Students Teaching Academic Responsibilities)
mentor. The STAR Team matches each freshman student with an
upperclassman of the same major or the same
interests. Upperclassmen have the opportunity to mentor and
guide freshmen students throughout their years at St. John’s
University. Friendships are made and opportunities are created
as mentors and buddies grow and learn together within the School of
Education.
Kerry Andreozzi, a junior within the School of Education,
loved seeing all of the new and familiar faces at the BBQ as she
exclaimed, “The BBQ was a great success. The freshmen were really
enthusiastic about being in the School of Education.” STAR
mentors met their buddies and began to bond, connect, and relate to
one another. Upon meeting her STAR buddy, Kerry was truly
excited; “It was a great moment to meet my star buddy. We
really got to know each other.” The SOE BBQ was also a great
way for freshman to get involved right away. Students were
able to promote and explain other programs and honors societies,
such as Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in
Education. The remarkable Kappa Eta Chapter had a table where
members informed students about the great opportunities of becoming
a part of this honor society. Within KDP, students are able to
network through workshops, lectures, and social events. STAR
mentors and buddies often attend these events together,
strengthening their own personal bond while learning and developing
as future educators.
The School of Education continues to promote this family-like
atmosphere. Students and faculty are all in this
together. The School of Education students grow, learn, and
develop as educators and individuals through these various
opportunities. As these years pass by, everlasting connections
and friendships are made within the School of Education. The
key is in the connections, and the School of Education BBQ was just
the start of the many more to follow.
-Dana Hetzel