Diligent and dynamic. Energetic and extroverted. Compassionate and charismatic. These are just a few of the words that best describe Dorvil and the many different layers to who she is. All of these different elements mesh together to create a model student at The College of New Jersey.
Dorvil is a busy bee. She is a sophomore psychology major with a women and gender studies minor, a part of W.I.L.L (Women in Learning and Leadership), has a job as a desk assistant in Wolfe Hall, and is a mentor for the PRIDE Peer Mentoring Program. But Dorvil has really flourished as a member of of TCNJ’s Black Student Union and more recently Sista Circle, an organization on campus that gives women of color a safe place to voice their opinions and talk about their experiences while building strong bonds with one another.
Within BSU Dorvil serves as Vice President of the Historical Affairs committee where she is currently working toward uncovering and preserving TCNJ’s Black Student Union’s rich and fascinating history. “Through TCNJ’s Black Student Union, I am working with a team of students to uncover pieces of our history that were never recorded. One of our organization’s many goals is to promote positive change and engagement, and I would like to do this for the TCNJ community through education and awareness, especially in light of the social injustices faced by people of color today.”
Getting involved with many of TCNJ’s programs has helped Dorvil blossom into the hardworking and ambitious woman that she is today.
“I have grown tremendously as a young person since stepping foot on campus as a freshman last year. There were so many small things , as well as the big things, that have contributed to my growth…I will continue to stay involved in the TCNJ community, and hopefully keep acquiring leadership roles and making professional connections, I will also continue to stay happy, make time for me (a MUST), and make mistakes. This is the part that doesn’t receive as much praise, but messing up and then learning from those unwanted experiences are some of the best ways to continue growing.”
Looking on into the future, Dorvil plans on improving her local community by acquiring a doctorate degree in psychology and working with young women in urban communities. She hopes to work with either a school, hospital, or community center, where she can form a safe space for young women of color in particular to share their experiences, and seek out professional mental health education and counseling. Additionally she would also like to publish some of her research and eventually teach at the collegiate level.
“For young women across the TCNJ community, regardless of year, race, or sexuality, know that you are INCREDIBLE, and that your identity as a TCNJ student is valued. College can potentially be one of the best chapters of your life. Make sure that you surround yourself with people and activities that highlight and elicit your gifts and talents. Keep in mind that you were selected to be here because of your own unique skills, at times when you might be unsure of your abilities, Encourage one another and don’t be afraid to stand up for what’s right. Always be yourself!”