Megan Julien
Class of 2008
- Hometown: South Bend, Indiana
- Hall: Lyons
- Major: Accountancy
What was your first impression of ND when you arrived on campus?
Having grown up in South Bend, I had been coming to campus for my whole life to enjoy the fall afternoons before football games and summer days rollerblading around the campus. So when I first arrived on campus, I was not awed by the Administration Building as we drove up Notre Dame Ave., nor was I especially impressed by the old-style dorms or the immaculate grounds. They were supposed to be like that--they always were. I was a little overwhelmed by all the welcoming signs and students--they were never here over to welcome me while I rollerbladed!
I think it was the first time I was out on campus at night, on the first night here, that I realized how amazing the Golden Dome is, lit up with the Blessed Mother looking down on us. That is when it dawned on me that this is what they mean in the many brochures I had been receiving that always said "Nowhere but Notre Dame." That is my real first impression as a student here.
What are your favorite things about student life at ND?
I really enjoy the spirit of dorm life that the culture of community Notre Dame fosters. I think the general feeling of community is strong here, and is evident in all aspects of student life. I like how there is so much opportunity to be involved and so many opportunities to learn outside the classroom through lectures, cultural events, and such. I also love all the opportunities for community service that are offered for any time commitment, and any interest (the Appalachia Seminars are especially great!). Dorm Mass and visits to the Grotto have also been some of my favorite times spent here. And I couldn’t talk about ND life without mentioning the football games--they are always some of the best times of the year!
What prompted you to choose your major?
After taking all the introductory business classes, and taking with my professors and advisors, I decided that accounting was the best fit for me. It was a difficult decision, but there were many opportunities for guidance in matching my interests and strengths to a major that I would enjoy.
Extra-curricular involvement:
I’ve been involved at the Center for Social Concerns—both with “Foodshare” (taking extra food from the dining hall to a local shelter) and Read to a Child (where I read to a local third grader once a week)--as well as Beta Alpha Psi (accounting society), Irish Gardens (student-run campus florist), and Undergraduate Women in Business.
What do you think makes ND unique from other universities?
The sense of community and Catholic identity that are present in all aspects of life at Notre Dame make the university so unique.
What are some of the things you enjoy about living in the residence hall?
The great friends I have made in Lyons have been the best part of dorm life. The sense of coming home when I get back at the end of the day has made my time here that much more enjoyable as well.
Do you have any words of wisdom to offer an incoming ND student?
Frosh-O will be a great time. Don’t be shy to get to know the people in your dorm. Get involved in a few things--but make sure to schedule in some free time! Enjoy every day.