Dear Readers,
I knew I would be writing this when it came time, but ultimately, I cannot believe how fast it has come. I transferred to Lynn University during my junior year from another institution. At the time, I knew no one, but everyone seemed to belong to their groups and had strong relationships with each other. Transferring to a small private institution was intimidating enough, but that didn’t stray me away from wanting to follow my passions. My previous institution had a Her Campus chapter, and Lynn University had yet to establish one.
As a Multimedia Journalism student, I noticed the lack of magazine opportunities outside of our classes. I knew students in my classes (just like me) liked to write about modern trends, wellness, and fan over Taylor Swift’s album releases. I leaped and created the Her Campus Lynn chapter to build that community, one I wanted to be a part of. As a transfer student, I didn’t know anyone, and this organization gave me the privilege to meet people who shared the same passions as me. I stayed true to myself and what I enjoyed the most, and it fueled my ambitions to get this chapter up and running successfully. I had escaped my comfort zones as a transfer student during tabling events, literally knocking on students’ dorms doors, organizing and hosting meetings, and advocating on the university’s social media platforms.
I didn’t do it alone; I am so grateful for the students and faculty who took the time out of their days to help me along the way. It was amazing to see the passion within every person and how much they believed in the little community of hardworking friends we made. I want to acknowledge our Chapter Advisor, Jamie D’Aria, the Senior Public Relations Manager at Lynn University. She has been there with me every step of the way, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without her help.
As I graduate this December, I look forward to seeing how the chapter will grow over time. I hope it continues to be an outlet for students’ passions, creates friendships, and creates an opportunity for each individual to leave a lasting imprint— just like I did.
The chapter will be in great hands with Giuliana Carrozza in 2021. She became my first friend at the university and originally one of the first members of the chapter. I am proud to offer her the opportunity to continue the legacy of Her Campus Lynn.
Much Love,
Janelle Fernandez
Founder of Her Campus Lynn