As I entered my final month as a student at Michigan State University, I found I have much to reflect on. Looking back on the past four years, I am proud of the opportunities I have taken part in and the growth I have experienced personally and professionally. As an out-of-state student, I was excited to try something new, form meaningful relationships and create my own experiences away from home. I was never truly nervous to leave for college because I had always viewed it as an exciting adventure, rather than something scary or nerve-racking. 

Freshman year was all about trying new things and learning my way around campus.  And I did just that. I was unsure of what I was most interested in but knew I wanted to learn more about communication and how a degree in the field could support me in both personal and professional encounters. Now, as a senior graduating with that degree, I can confirm, the knowledge and perspectives I have gained have been invaluable. 

Heading into my sophomore year, I was eager to focus on my professional development, which led me to Spartan Family Connections. Since joining SFC, I’ve significantly improved my written and verbal communication skills and gained a deeper understanding of how important support systems are in a college experience. SFC is an office dedicated to providing resources and support to families so they can better assist their students as they grow. Although my family’s transition into college life may have been more traditional, working at SFC gave me a firsthand look at both the hardships and joys of families and their children attending college. 

Over the past three years, SFC has worked hard to connect with Spartan families and keep them engaged with Michigan State news. I am proud to have helped organize MSU’s first-ever Family Weekend – a highlight of my experience working for SFC. Throughout my time working with SFC Director Laurin Gierman, I have analyzed survey data, helped set up check-in and other events for Family Weekend, interacted with countless parents and guardians in-person and through the Michigan State Spartan Parents Facebook Group, and helped promote the SFC’s newsletter and our other resources. 

Working with Laurin and the rest of the SFC team has taught me the importance of connection, support and help – even when it feels intimidating. I learned how to communicate effectively with many sources and contribute ideas to help make Family Weekend even more successful. 

This year, I also conducted interviews with various groups across campus to explore how we might reach families who aren’t already connected to our channels. This was an incredible experience that introduced me to students and organizations I might not have otherwise met, as well as new ways these groups communicate with their families. 

As I reflect on my college years, one of the things I’m most grateful for is the support system and opportunities for growth I have been given. The many classes I have taken, meetings with professors and real-world experience have prepared me for my future after graduation. In my last few weeks as a Michigan State student, I feel both excited and nervous to leave East Lansing. Michigan State has provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge and experience I will carry with me forever. I have a clear understanding of who I am and what I am passionate about. My experience at Spartan Family Connection has played an impactful part in my college experience, and I truly am grateful for the opportunity to work with amazing people.

Author: Lindsey Rabinowitz