Wednesday is a middle of the week day; some say hump day, or think longingly of a day closer to the weekend.  Wednesday, for Chowan students, is a welcoming day, a day to catch up, to relax, to wake up just a little later than a normal college schedule allows. Madison Kilgore, a freshman from Portland, Texas says, “I enjoy the life skills schedule on Wednesday because it gives me a chance to catch up on homework and have a break in the middle of the week. I love the activities provided because when I’m finished with work, I can enjoy something else to ease my mind. Pop and Paint was fun and easy and I was able to be creative while enjoying a snack with friends. I can reset and take a break. Madison’s Wednesdays actually begin with Volleyball practice in the morning. Pop and Paint was sponsored by the Department of Student Experience and Success, along with activities in the park, including cornhole and spike ball and of course, so much food.

On Wednesday, August 26, students were invited to attend a Professionalism Workshop, sponsored by the International Student Club. Officers Sreshta Puducheri, Marie Kaissieh, Lina Danna, and Elizabeth Waltz covered topics including social media and public relations, interviewing skills and networking. Calvin Baldwin, a former Chowan student and business owner, inspired the students attending on exciting  possible career choices after graduation. Mr. Baldwin is thrilled to be helping university students. “As an alumnus of Chowan University, I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to give back to the students. I’m invested in their future because someone once invested in mine. When I stand and interact with the students, I can feel their hunger and ambition for greatness. Dr. Rosemary Thomas is providing excellent leadership for the university, and it’s inspiring to witness the growth and potential of the next generation.”

Harri Lovett, a graduate of Chowan’s Masters in Organizational Leadership and now Director of Business and Industry Partnerships for the University spoke to the students about presentations; simply shaking hands and introductions and the basics aspiring professionals need to know. 

Mr. Lovett says regarding this event, “As our dedication to serve students with all aspects of their professional development grows, so does our need for dedicated events that focus on shaping the student into the professional. I am so invigorated by the enthusiasm of the International Student Club in their preparation and execution of this fantastic event. The topics dissected challenging issues that young professionals face in the workplace and gave invaluable insight into how to combat the said issues. These student directed discussions are so important because we remove barriers and allow students to ask questions or even uncover themes of which they are unfamiliar.” 

Also on Wednesday, Keyond Gorley, Director of Public Safety, sponsored a Meet and Greet with donuts, sharing safety concerns with new students, actually, anyone who wanted to attend. A caring environment  involves all those working on behalf of the students, an entire campus community, de-stressing on Wednesdays brings the warmth of belonging to campus.

With students focusing intensely on two classes per seven-week period, Wednesdays are an important component of the ten critical areas Chowan advocates in their life skills mandate, particularly involving self-care and wellness, spiritual growth, confidence and communicating effectively. Freshman, Anna Holcombe from Wake Forest NC says, “Wednesdays are a change of pace from everyday. It allows me the opportunity to become involved in activities on campus and spend time with people I might not otherwise get to see.” Madison plays Volleyball for Chowan. Another Volleyball player, Hanna Virts from Ponte Vedra, Florida loves being able to catch up on her academic classes.

This Wednesday, Mr. Lovett will sponsor a Small Business Meet-up where the business owners in Murfreesboro will meet with interested students, not necessarily jobs, but to build relationships and find mentors. Volleyball, field games and service projects will all be included making another wonderful Wednesday possible for Chowan students.