Laura Bradley
Class of 2008
- Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
- Hall: Lyons
- Major: Psychology
What was your first impression of ND when you arrived on campus?
Frosh-O was a unique experience that no other schools have. It was a little like summer camp, and it was a comfortable environment to meet people in the dorm as well as from other dorms. All of the Frosh-O staff was so welcoming. I knew immediately that Notre Dame would easily become my second home.
What are your favorite things about student life at ND?
I love the Grotto--it is definitely my favorite place on campus. Also, I really like that the majority of students live on campus all four years. The dorms truly become a community, making things like Mass on Sunday nights even more enjoyable. The Student Manager Organization is one of my favorite parts of ND. It is such a unique opportunity to work with the different sports teams, and it has been a once in a lifetime experience.
What prompted you to choose Psychology as a major?
I really enjoyed my psychology class in high school, and my teacher was amazing. When I was trying to decide what I wanted to major in throughout my freshman year, I kept thinking about that class. I started looking at psychology classes and they all sounded so interesting. I still do not know what I want to do with psychology as my major, but I know I want to help people with it, possibly as a teacher or a school counselor.
Extra-curricular involvement:
I have been involved in a number of activities, including Student Managers, ND Vision, Lyons Hall Council (Athletic Commissioner, Late Night Olympics Commissioner, Frosh-O Commissioner), Interhall Football, Volleyball, and Basketball, and Habitat for Humanity.
What do you think makes ND unique from other universities?
Notre Dame has such a strong sense of community, from dorm Masses on Sunday nights to football season.
What are some of the things you enjoy about living in the residence hall?
I love being able to walk down the hall and visit some of my closest friends. I love the little things, like being able to come home to my room and have my roommate be there to talk about our days and to hang out for hours. I also like that each dorm has a hall council. It is a great way to continue being a leader and to stay involved in the dorm.
Do you have any words of wisdom to offer an incoming ND student?
It is important to get involved right away. Interhall teams and hall council are a great way to meet people in your dorm, and clubs are a great way to meet people outside of your dorm who share the same types of interests as you. There is a club for everyone, so you will not have a problem finding one that you will enjoy. The bigger problem will be trying to decide on the select few you will have time for. Also, get to know your professors and talk to them outside of class.
Additional comments:
Time has flown by so fast, and I am only a sophomore. I love ND more than I can describe! I have met so many great people, like my roommate, and I don't know what I would do without them. I am excited to take advantage of all ND has to offer, including Student Managers and ND Vision this summer.