Author: a.salamanca

During this semester in Freshman Seminar, we learned about the many resources that Baruch offers to students by having people come in from these various offices to tell us more about what they do. When the librarian came to talk to us about the different resources that the library provides to students, it was extremely useful for both the community service project and other work in different classes. Without the help from faculty or staff, it would have been difficult to complete certain parts of the community service project. Whenever we had questions, we would go to those who can provide help and knew were experts in certain things. Overall, we received knowledge that can be applied to all classes during our time as students and we know where to go for any type of help. 

Not only does seeking help apply to Freshman Seminar as it can apply to every class. There have been many instances when Scholars have helped each other when someone is confused or needs clarification for something. Having communication as a group is really useful since information can be spread quickly and easily. When I went to a couple of general interest meeting for the Latin American Student Organization here at Baruch, they talked about being a resource for students. They would be able to help connect us to other people or just be there to hang out. Having many resources is going to very helpful to succeed in Baruch.  

After completing the community service project, I am excited to get started and work with the New York Restoration Project. The project has created a new view on community service as I see how valuable it is and the impact that it can have on others. Over the next 3 years I can see myself growing as a person in and out of Baruch. I’m looking forward to the coming years and hope to be more involved and build connections.   

To me being part of a community means being involved or helping out others when necessary. Being a Baruch Scholar and part of the Baruch community allows me to interact with other people. I’ve gone to a couple Latin American Student Organization meetings and am part of an indoor soccer team with fellow Scholar Chris. A big part of belonging to a community means getting to know people through clubs and events held at Baruch. Outside of Baruch, I’m part of a much larger New York community but either way, it’s important to be a contributing member.

During high school, I was required to complete 20 hours of community service every year. At first I didn’t want to do it as it was a task that I felt forced upon me. Now I see that it is valuable as it can help you grow as a person by being involved and helping others with whatever it may be. Doing various activities at school and around my neighborhood were enjoyable when I realized I was doing something meaningful. Now that community service has to be done at Baruch, it’ll be another chance to become involved and help many communities of people. The cultural events are also a way to become exposed and take advantage of the many things this city has to offer for students. As Scholars, we get so many benefits that it seems right for us to give back. Overall, I hope to get the most out of these years while working with new people and doing something positive for others and myself.

Hey everyone

My name is Aldair Salamanca and I’m 17 years old. I’m born and raised in Brooklyn and went to Millennium Brooklyn High School. I live with my parents and 2 younger siblings.

There have been a couple difficult experiences with my family that have shaped who I am today. There are all types of obstacles faced in life but my family has taught me to be strong and push through by staying together. Even though there are difficult times, it’s all for a reason because at the end of the day we’ll be better off than we were in the beginning.  Coming from a Latino family has really made me open my eyes to things that I used to not think about. It pushes me to work hard for my family and myself. I take pride in being Mexican and seeing other Latinos become successful.

For the first semester I want to go in working hard to get a high GPA to be able to keep the scholarship. The pressure of keeping the required GPA makes me nervous but a strong start will really be helpful for the future. I’m beginning to get used to the style of college, the time in between classes, the responsibility, and the homework that has to be done. Even though I’m still in a bit of a high school mode, I hope that changes for me to become a better and more responsible student. I also hope to grow as a person, make connections/network, and keep or create relationships with others over the course of these 4 years. My overall view on college is optimistic and I’m excited to see what these next couple years have in store.