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To the Class of 2013,

Well done.

You’ve done what it takes to get into one of the best institutions of higher education in the world. You are going to love it here.

A resource that has proved invaluable to me in my time here are the First Year advisors. Don’t do something on your own if you don’t have to – the First Year advisors are indispensible when it comes to finding classes you like, adjusting to the ones you don’t, and using all the resources available to you to learn what you want to learn. They are here to help you, so get to know them and talk to them about what you want to do and they will point you where you want to go. The First Year of Studies has many ways of helping you out, including monthly newsletters, tutors, a writing center, peer advising, and more. Learn to capitalize on this resource in your first year at this amazing place – it will start you off in the right direction.

Another resource is the professors themselves. While professors write books, lead lectures, and travel the world, they happen to be much more accessible than newly-minted college students realize. Fortunately for you, Notre Dame has made the decision to remain a undergraduate-focused university. If you find something interesting, if you have questions about anything, or you simply want to introduce yourself, I highly encourage you to go to the professor’s office hours or schedule a time to meet with them. They love talking to students and they are here for you – make the most of their knowledge and experience.

A last piece of advice about when you first come to campus – you won’t know anybody, but remember that no-one knows anyone. Spend the first semester branching out like crazy and get to know everyone you see – that’s what everyone else is doing and it is the perfect time to meet many new people. Be ridiculously friendly and open and I guarantee that you will have no trouble finding things in common with the students here. You are some of the best and brightest in the country and these will be some of the best years of your life.

You are going to love this place. Welcome to the family.

Your fellow student,
Malcolm Phelan

—
President of the Class of 2012
2008-2009