Campus News

Born to Fly

“You are an eagle; an eagle was born to fly.” This concept resounded through the welcome speech to the Class of 2015, delivered by Dr. Trevor Gardner, during the Orientation exercise on August 29. He advanced the notion of the eagle by his use of an allegory which featured Rudolph the Eagle who was scared to fly. Through encouragement and a little thrust, Rudolph was able to achieve his full potential as an eagle and also learn that when you fly with crows, you are likely to be a prey.

“You are USCians; USCians were born to fly. You can fly…You have the opportunity in this University to amaze this nation, this region and the world.”

These words sank in as beaming eyes and anxious smiles, attentively listened. These scores of freshmen all gathered for the orientation program hosted by the Department of Student Development and Services to familiarize themselves with the school and people that would soon become their second home. Approximately 500 hundred students joined USC and have begun on their journey to self discovery, career preparation, and the creation of lifelong memories.

“You are here to flap your wings,” stated Dr. Gardner. “University life is to help you experiment with good ideas, so flap your wings…Flap your wings in social relationships. The best wives or husbands you can find will be right here on this campus.”

“As USC students, you have now been called upon to think critically, to embrace the challenge of lifelong learning. Beware of the crows,” he admonished. “Do not fly with them. A crow will always be a crow. They will introduce you to drugs, sex, or other activities, but guard your integrity and say no.”

In the remainder of his special address, Dr. Gardner urged the students to aim high. He stated that as USCian Eagles, they have to go to the place where crows cannot fly –beyond the ordinary; beyond excellence. He urged them to go where mere men cannot take them; go beyond excellence. USC is the oldest tertiary education provider in this region and has been teaching people for years how to fly for years. It is not only about the head, but also the heart and hand.

The University extends its warmest greetings to its freshmen. Welcome to your fresh start. Welcome to a place where you can create a new path to be followed, welcome to an institution committed to equal and quality education, an institution dedicated to the development of the national and regional community, and an institution with the determination to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God to humanity.

Welcome to the University of the Southern Caribbean!

Written by: Charlie Ann St. Cyr