Transitioning from high school to college, I have learned that mastering time management is the key to attaining a stable and healthy life as a co-ed. High school is where I first developed a sense of time by having the task of managing a busy schedule. Being such an eager beaver, I loved joining one club after the other for the sole purpose of meeting different people and being a part of communal projects. Heading into my freshman year of college, I desired to follow a similar path by getting involved in the community as fast as I could. Soon enough I had come to terms with the fact that I am not perfect. I cannot do everything. It is ironic that you gain more free time in college, but there is only so much you can do.
Over the course of two years, I have narrowed down the amount of extracurricular activities to an appropriate number. I do admire people who take the extra mile whether it is taking six courses or working a full-time job other than being a student. I have met one of those people. This week’s campus celebrity stands out not only by wearing adorable vibrant outfits, but also by having insightful management philosophies for handling a loaded BU life. To know more about the secret of this sophomore’s success, I asked questions pertaining to the journey to her current destination. From working shifts at SAO and FitRec, completing a PoliSci major, to doing a semester internship, her ability to stay positive and poised is celebrity status-worthy. Make way for Melissa Morel (CAS ’16)!
Tell me about your high school experience. Were you as involved in extracurricular activities as much as you are now at BU?
Oh yes. I was a “mini Melissa” (a mini version of what I am now). I was the President of the French Honor Society (FHS). I would compete in language competitions, the French language specifically. Outside of school, I was involved in a middle school program, where I taught kids French (Melissa is trilingual—English, Spanish and French) and I tutored elementary students in math. I enjoyed doing the after-school programs because it was very community-building. In addition to FHS, I was a member of the National Honors Society.
I took AP courses my junior and senior year. Naturally, I was fond of AP Government and AP US History. The interesting part about those classes is the way of thinking. What you take into account defines something in the end. And changing one fact or one factor can change the situation. I have always been a social science girl. The subject is very fluid. Math and science is too concrete. I also took classes online, which were extra AP courses that my school didn’t offer. I was a nerd in high school (laughs). However, being fashionable covers up a little of the nerdiness. During high school, I worked as a Sales Associate at Ralph Lauren. Oh my gosh … those clothes.
When you started freshman year at BU, what was your desire? What’s your current work/job schedule?
Well here’s the thing, when I came to college, I was deciding between working towards a career field versus being involved in student life. I was an ambitious freshman. I wanted to do anything available. With trying to do everything at once, I needed to find a balance. Over time, my academic focus events prevented me from joining student groups. Applying for on-campus jobs and an internship, I knew I was not going to be able to attend most of the student meetings. That is why I had the desire to work at SAO (Student Activities). I wanted student group involvement. So now I help organize student group events rather than going to them.
At FitRec, I work in customer services. It’s different than SAO because that is a hundred percent student-related. At my customer services job, I am working with adults most of the time. It’s a different environment. It is about using the skills you have and adapting them. I am receiving something other than my student self would.
My internship is at the Massachusetts State House. I am working for Therese Murray, who is the first woman President of the Massachusetts Senate…ever. I am honored and intimidated, but it is without a doubt an incredible feeling. At work I do a lot of writing and conduct research. Also, I’m learning how to deal with different people and how to listen better and provide information better. (Melissa told me she spent two hours on the phone with Apple Care. Her issue was resolved but she would have talked for an X amount of time until her computer problem was fixed. She is definitely learning how to deal with people.)
My judicial process class (PO 304) and my graduate class (GRS 711) have been helpful. PO 304 deals with social content behind laws, and behavioral changes. GRS 711 focuses on American politics and government. At my internship, I see the legal dynamics that we theorize in my class, which is kind of cool. Thinking about my internship, I can’t believe I’ve made it this far, but I know I still have so much to go.
What would you advise to an ambitious freshman? Have you found the balance? What’s your secret?
The secret? No sleep (smiles). No, no. You should value the experience. Ask yourself: What are you getting the most out of? Are you a leader in student group, volunteering, or interning?
Determine the activities you are going to do and where you can give the most and receive the most. Not everything is right or a fit. I choose what am I best for. Cut what’s not good and keep what’s good.
Talk to me about the PoliSci major. When did you know that it was what you wanted to study? If someone was considering political science, how would describe it and what advice would you give to him or her?
I am from Weston, Florida. During high school, I was selected for the Weston University Program (which is not a real university). The program explains the local operations of government. After that program, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in politics.
I’ve been in the law firm world. After my senior year, I interned and still intern every summer at the South Florida law firm Weiss Serota Helfman Pastoriza Cole & Boniske. I love the real world experience! The people at the office ask me if I still want to be a lawyer. I say, “Yes!” They reply, “You haven’t spent enough time here!”
People who are interested in Political Science should know that there is a lot of theory in trying to explain how the political system works. There is quite a bit of reading, but the research aspect is a big part. Within the research, there is statistics and research design. It is very hands on. My favorite two classes have been PO 506: Separation Powers with Professor Kriner and PO 508: Constitutional Law with Professor Glick. PO 506 deals with the three branches. I would have to say that I was intellectually challenged. I was in awe of my professor’s thinking. PO 508 focuses on Supreme Court cases and understanding each of their impacts. Being a Justice of the Supreme Court is my dream job!
Also, PoliSci is a good major to jump on for law school!
You have so much on your plate. How do you stay sane?
I eat lots of chocolate to stay sane. But really it is the positive people I have around me. I’m so grateful and blessed to have such great friends and family. The stupid questions keep me positive … I’ll explain.
When friends or family text or call me to ask about how my day was or how an exam went, I like that. It reminds you of the people who know you and know you’re busy, but want to be a part of your life. Whenever I am at a negative point, my roommate and my friends keep me sane and positive. My family is a motivator. They push me but they also advise me to stop (laughs). I am the busiest bee of the family. My family is a part of my accomplishments, but they wish I was eating or sleeping more (smiles).
When you are able to have some free time, how do you spend it?
I get involved in another activity. I am a member of the dance group M.U.S.I.C. Dancing, for me, is a stress reliever. It is joy no matter what. I just need another activity just for me. I love my dance team. It is music, dancing, relaxing, exercising, and laughter all at once!
In between classes or work, I talk to my family a lot. I’ll Face Time with my mom or dad while I am riding on the T. It’s those moments. Don’t give up the small things.