The Agent of Change

“The power of a community extends far beyond one can imagine.”

If you know me, you’d know that I always end with that one quote. It might sound cliche, but being a part of Farmingdale State College’s campus community has shown me how strength in numbers can lead to innumerable changes for the better. 

Born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica, I was taught to practice humility and to execute with the utmost diligence, integrity, and excellence. Migrating to the United States and joining Farmingdale’s community, I was never particularly interested in campus life. I only saw myself excelling within academic means at the institution. It was until I enrolled in the applied learning course that I began to extend my wings through the world of mentorship. Having a mentor provided me with great insights into the world of networking and its importance. 

Growing up introverted and shy, along with the development of the COVID pandemic, I took the initiative to become more active on campus as a means of self-growth. I found myself joining numerous GroupMe chats designated to student clubs on campus and through this, I got wind of a position in our campus’ Student Government Association as Vice President. Taking advantage of the opportunity, I began a journey of immense growth fostered by my experiences on campus. 

I must admit, I felt out of place at the first senate meeting I had to chair, but I made it through with stutters and mispronunciations, and honestly felt as if it just wasn’t for me. Staying determined and observing the actual changes that I can make on campus ultimately lead me to develop an undeniable love for the organization and family that I have made through my two years of chairing the senate. Through my position, I have been able to sign numerous initiatives including but not limited to: the Feminine Hygiene Products Initiative, Mental Services Initiative, Pride Benches Initiative, and Food Take Out Boxes for FSC Residential Dining Initiative. 

Faculty and staff have always provided support for me, especially the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence. My most valued conversations often included the Chief Diversity Officer on campus, Dr. Kevin Jordan. He has been a major inspiration to me and has fostered my growth as a leader. In one of our many inspiring conversations, he encouraged me to be ‘an agent of change.’ This simple encounter has made an indelible impression on me as a leader, woman, and member of a minority community.

Through my years of service, I developed an adoration for advocacy and have also joined our campus’ National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Afro-Caribbean club, holding the board positions of Secretary and Vice President, respectively. My greatest goal on campus is to provide an inclusive, comfortable space for students and faculty, and to portray the importance of representation as it often leads to participation. I plan to continue my journey of providing a space for the narratives of all students through my position in the Student Government Association as Vice President and have begun my campaign for the position of President for the 2023-2024 school year.

I am a firm believer in the butterfly effect, and believe my article will encourage and inspire students to join an organization and let their voices be heard. There is a space for you on campus and you have to find that space. It’s a part of your journey to be as well-rounded and self-aware in this ever-evolving society. So go on and be agents of change!

Thanks for reading! Please check out the information below and have a great day! Feel free to reach out to us at dalenewsfsc@gmail.com