Shannon McQueen ‘16 is a name well-known at St. Mike’s. First-Years got to know her when she spoke at Convocation and upperclassmen know her from her work with the Student Association or S.A. We were fortunate enough to speak with Shannon and learn some helpful information for new, current, and prospective students.
HC: So Shannon, it looks like you’ve been incredibly involved on campus. Out of all of the activities you’ve participated in, what was your favorite?
Shannon: Oh this is a tough question! I had the great opportunity to be a Resident Assistant for two years. Creating a strong bond with my residents, seeing them become a part of the SMC community, and watching them develop their own strong leadership skills was incredibly rewarding. Not to mention, I’ve been able to work on two terrific staffs that have been like a second family. I learned a ton about myself, and really expanded my skills as a mentor and community organizer.
HC: As a senior, is there anything you wish you had done throughout your time here?
Shannon: Honestly, no. I’ve had some terrific opportunities to travel, engage my education in a unique and personal way, put my values into action through activism, develop my own leadership skills, and share many laughs with beautiful friends. I’m really excited to graduate, and thankful for my time here at Saint Mikes.
HC: What was your favorite SMC experience?
Shannon: I was able to travel to Tanzania twice with my favorite professor. It was incredible! To see theories of international development and nonprofit actually play out in the “real world” was fascinating for me. More importantly, my world view was questioned and stretched. I made terrific friends, and was wildly inspired by nearly everyone I met there. It changed my life.
HC: From what we know you are heavily involved in the Student Association. What do you do for the SA and how does it affect our campus?
Shannon: Yes, I’m president of the Student Association. The Student Association is made up of club representative, class officers, hall and area representatives. Anyone can come to Tuesday meetings, join committees, or email me if they are interested in getting involved. Constitutionally, my role is as the “chief executive officer and official representative of the S.A”. So, I chair the executive board and preside over the Tuesday night senate meetings (open to everyone). I feel responsible to best represent student concerns to the administration, and to encourage leadership and critical questioning.
The SA affects our campus because this is a large part of our campus. As students, it is important to harness the power we have as a collective and organize efficiently. There aren’t a lot of outlets at Saint Mikes that help with this. If a student comes to the executive board or senate with an issue, I want to make sure that the community of Saint Michael’s and the administration hears their concern.
HC: If you could offer one piece of advice to an incoming First-Year, what would it be?
Shannon: My advice would be to show up. Show up to class. Show up to campus speakers. Show up to club meetings. Show up to club sports. Just show up. Because.
HC: What made you want to attend St. Mike’s?
Shannon: I came here because it was the most financially affordable.
HC: What impression do you think you will leave on the school? Do you think you will return after graduation?
Shannon: No, I will never return.
Kidding. I’ll probably come back for reunions. But I’m excited for the next stage of my life too! As far as impressions, I’m really not sure. I’m still amazed when people know my name, so I’m not sure about impression. Probably best to ask the school about that one.
Looking back, I guess I’ve worked on a lot of projects. I helped get soap in the first year dorm bathrooms, set up a student art gallery, and have tried to refocus the S.A and empower others. I’m most proud of my work on inclusion, and really hope that I can look back after graduation and see a school that strives to create the most inclusive and strong community.
HC: What is one thing St. Mike’s has taught you that you will remember throughout your future endeavors?
Shannon: To take chances, to not be afraid to fail, and to say yes.