When a new program begins on campus, it often receives critiques about what it represents, who will be in it, and whether it is worth the effort to participate.’ The Just-Us Residential College, Fairfield’s newest sophomore living and learning community to be located in Jogues Hall, is no exception. The name, the perceived lack of interest in diversity and/or justice, the perception that all members are students of color or all members are peace and justice geniusesthe list goes on.
When it first began, the now successful Ignatian Residential College experienced similar critiques of its own such as; it’s a religious cult, where everyone prays every night, where students were lured into becoming a priest or nun, and where the required retreats were scary and religious.’ Through time and students’ own experiences, these myths have subsided and the true story has emerged.’ That is, living in a residential college like this is meaningful, enjoyable, and has helped many make more out of their Fairfield experience.’
In truth, the Just-Us Residential College is, and will be, providing a meaningful and fun community for students while exploring questions about oneself and the world, while making a difference locally and globally.’ Many of the questions explored by Just-Us reflect the commitment to our campus community as well as our institutional mission.
Over the past seven years, I have accompanied more than 1,300 sophomores through living and learning communities on our campus. This experience has allowed me to witness the powerful and positive influence that living in a residential college has had for many students.’ Some have deepened their sense of belonging to Fairfield through living in such a meaningful community.’ Others have increased their understanding of themselves and identified some of their gifts and how they might use them to better our campus and our world. Most have had a whole lot of fun throughout the process. These experiences, year after year, are transformational and have made all of us, faculty, staff, administrators, mentors and alumni, better people for being a part of it.’ I’m sure many of you know students who have had such powerful experiences.’ Quite simply, I believe we need residential colleges at Fairfield so that these opportunities and gifts can extend to more students in our campus community.
I would appreciate your help in abundantly spreading the word and give this community a chance to thrive.’
I welcome your comments and questions, jdefeo@mail.fairfield.edu.
Sincerely,
Joe DeFeo
Director of Living and Learning
Associate Director, Ignatian Residential College
Logistics: Applications preferred by Monday, 3/23 and available at www.fairfield.edu/llc (under Intentional Living Communities) or call ext. 2147, the Office of Living and Learning.
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