New Student Welcome Speech by Niyati Narang '20

Summary

In this heartfelt welcome speech, Niyati Narang, the 2019-2020 Scripps Associated Students President, addresses new students, families, and friends. She emphasizes the transformative experience awaiting the newcomers at Scripps College, encouraging them to take initiative, engage with the community, and contribute to positive change. Reflecting on the college's motto, 'Incipit Vita Nova' ('Here begins new life'), Niyati invites students to embrace growth, leadership, and diversity while acknowledging the school’s location on Tongva land. The speech inspires students to take charge of their journey, advocate for what matters, and become part of a dynamic, supportive community.

Takeaways

• 😀 Congratulations to new students for making it to Scripps, a place filled with opportunities for growth and development.
• 😀 Scripps is a place where students can expect transformation, with countless opportunities for leadership and personal growth over the next four years.
• 😀 The motto 'Incipit Vita Nova' ('Here begins new life') symbolizes the start of a new chapter in students' lives.
• 😀 Niyati suggests that all new students (and their families) write down their feelings on this important day, to reflect on their personal growth over the next few years.
• 😀 Scripps is a student-driven institution where student voices are heard, and activism leads to positive changes such as improved study spaces and curriculum adjustments.
• 😀 Students at Scripps have the power to create change and shape the community by organizing and advocating for what they want.
• 😀 Being new at Scripps means having the most potential to make a difference, as students have the time, energy, and resources to organize and make their goals a reality.
• 😀 Students are encouraged to be proactive, whether it's reaching out to professors, seeking funding for conferences, or starting a new club on campus.
• 😀 Scripps fosters a sense of community and encourages collaboration. Students are reminded that they will not be alone in their journey, and will always have support from their peers and the Scripps community.
• 😀 The Scripps community values diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect, encouraging students to learn from each other’s perspectives and build a better future together.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speaker's message?

The main theme of the speaker’s message is empowerment and involvement in the Scripps College community. The speaker encourages new students to embrace their time at Scripps, take an active role in their education, and be part of a transformative experience both personally and within the community.

How does the speaker suggest students prepare for their journey at Scripps?

The speaker suggests students take a moment to reflect on their current feelings, priorities, and aspirations. Writing down these reflections will help them see how they evolve over the next few years as they grow and change in unexpected ways.

What role do students play in shaping the future of Scripps College?

Students play a crucial role in shaping the future of Scripps College by voicing their concerns, advocating for change, and organizing efforts that can lead to meaningful changes within the institution, such as changes to policies, curricula, and services.

Can you provide examples of how students have influenced change at Scripps?

Yes, the speaker provides examples where students have successfully advocated for change, such as the expansion of study spaces, the removal of a mandatory writing class, and efforts to change the dining hall service provider to align with Scripps’ values.

What advice does the speaker offer to students who are unsure about their goals or major?

The speaker assures students that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. They are encouraged to seek help from deans, professors, and the community to explore their interests and find their path. The support network at Scripps will assist them in figuring it all out.

How does the speaker describe the power of new students at Scripps?

New students are described as the most powerful on campus because they have the most time ahead of them to make a difference. Their energy, time, and capacity to organize are key to influencing the school’s direction and achieving their personal goals.

What does the speaker suggest students do if they want something at Scripps?

The speaker encourages students to take initiative and pursue what they want at Scripps, whether it’s contacting professors, attending conferences, or starting a club. If they need help, they are urged to ask for assistance, as Scripps provides resources to help students achieve their goals.

What is the importance of community at Scripps College?

The community at Scripps is portrayed as the foundation of the college experience. It provides support during both the challenging and celebratory moments, and students are encouraged to engage with it from the start to help them grow and thrive.

What does the speaker acknowledge about Scripps College’s history?

The speaker acknowledges that Scripps College was built on sacred Tongva land, and emphasizes the need for active engagement from the community to address and undo the legacies of colonialism.

How does the speaker address diversity and inclusion at Scripps?

The speaker highlights that Scripps College is a place where students from diverse backgrounds, including international students, first-generation students, and students with various gender identities, are welcomed and belong. The college values these differences and fosters an inclusive environment.