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As Â鶹ÊÓƵ ushers in the fall semester, Cardinal Communities aims to bring a sense of belonging to its first-year students through mentorship.  

Designed to create a seamless transition from high school to university life, Cardinal Communities offers a unique opportunity for freshmen to connect with like-minded peers and engage in activities that foster personal growth and academic success. With over thirty groups, these communities are centered around shared interests, hobbies, and academic disciplines, allowing students to bond over common passions while providing a solid support network. 

"The Cardinal Communities program was created with the goal of enhancing the first-year experience for our students," Associate Director of STAR Services Erin Tabor said. "We believe that by connecting freshmen with peers who share similar interests, we can help them build strong relationships and find a sense of belonging from the very beginning of their college journey." 

Beyond academic interests, Cardinal Communities also encourage professional development by providing students with a professional mentor. 

“When we were developing the program, we were looking at the peer mentorship groups of other universities, Tabor said. “What we noticed was that many of the groups had the social aspect, but we wanted to do something different. Therefore, in our peer mentorship groups, we have professional aspect where students can learn and network within their area of study.”  

To foster camaraderie and social interaction, Cardinal Communities organizes a range of activities and events throughout the year. From attending on-campus events to one-on-one mentorship sessions, these events offer first-year students the chance to relax, have fun, and form lasting memories with their newfound friends. 

As Â鶹ÊÓƵ continues to receive positive feedback and testimonials from participants, the Cardinal Communities program has solidified its place as an integral part of the university experience. By nurturing connections and providing a sense of belonging, the program sets first-year students on a path to thrive both academically and personally. 

"We are thrilled to witness the incredible impact Cardinal Communities has had on our freshmen," Tabor said. "Our goal is to ensure that every student feels valued and supported as they embark on this exciting journey of higher education." 

To learn more about Cardinal Communities, visit lamar.edu/cardinalcommunities