Q: What memorable experiences have helped to define your life at UD?

Chisholm: Both of my parents, my older cousin, my older sister Briyana (who recently won a Fulbright award), my younger sister Sharlie and I have all gone to UD. I rode the DART bus an hour and a half each way from Clayton to attend Cab Calloway [School of the Arts in Wilmington] and when I graduated, I was ready to get away! I was attracted to the conflict resolution and development focus that William Jefferson College [near Pittsburgh] offered and, honestly, had finances not become a consideration I would have probably stayed.

When I made the decision to transfer to UD, I felt a sense of loss for the college experience I’d planned. That changed when I signed up for the transfer seminar course and was assigned to attend events and complete reflections on them. It got me out of my residence hall, going to things like the BSU cookout and HOLA events, and I bonded with new people over food which has always been a passion of mine. I’ve also enjoyed getting to spend more time with my family and growing closer to them. [BSU is the Black Student Union, HOLA represents Hispanic/Latinx students and both are registered student organizations.]

At UD, I was assigned a Tunisian roommate and we had a lot of fascinating conversations about sociology and his experience entering the UD community. We bonded over a lot of things and it was a wonderful experience for both of us. I loved living on campus so much that although I had to move off for a time, I applied to return as an RA in Independence [Residence Hall]. I am so excited to be back in a residence hall, and have enjoyed reuniting with friends as well as getting to know the staff.

Q: How did UD support you in becoming a thriving Blue Hen?

Chisholm: The sheer amount of opportunities for students here is amazing. Last winter I went to Martinique. I didn’t think I’d ever be able to do something like that, but I went to one of the study abroad sessions and learned about the scholarships that were available. I saved up all summer, and also applied for the scholarship, which I got. I learned so much French, and so much about my own capacity and how I deal with things that are different. Even when you’re not dealing with culture shock, sometimes you just miss the things you take for granted at home as being true every day.

I’ve had my share of challenges the past few years, but I’m fortunate to have had constant, supportive mentors in the University Student Centers like Jay Patel and Cara White who were always checking in to see how I was doing. I never felt that I was alone in anything I was trying to accomplish — just knowing that these people were here made life at UD that much easier.

Q: What’s your advice for students who may be interested in following a similar path?

Chisholm: If you are a transfer, too, do not be afraid to go all in. Go to Activities Night, pick two or three groups that interest you, and go to their meetings. Your two or three groups may change as you learn more about what you like but it’s important to engage. At the same time, don’t be afraid to say yes or no. You won’t always know for sure when it’s the right time to say yes or no, but you need to learn to self-reflect, and cordially and amicably say no to opportunities that are not right for you.

Between getting involved in HOLA and as an RA, and working at the Career Services Center as well as with the Upward Bound program, I’ve had many great experiences both on and off campus as a transfer, as a commuter and as a resident. Although UD wasn’t on my mind when I was choosing a college, it was clearly in my heart and I am proud to be a Blue Hen.

Parents and Family Weekend

All Blue Hen families are invited to return to campus Oct. 12-14 for the University’s annual Parents and Family Weekend celebration, facilitated by the Division of Student Life. A wide range of engaging, family-friendly programs and special events help attendees reconnect with their students and familiarize with partners on campus who can support their students’ success. Festivities kick off on Friday afternoon with Major Mania and the annual comedy show, this year featuring Jeff Foxworthy, and continue through Sunday with games, performances, open houses and more. All event details and online tickets are available at the PFW website.

About the Division of Student Life

The Division of Student Life includes the Office of the Dean of Students, Career Services Center, Center for Black Culture, Center for Counseling and Student Development, Fraternity and Sorority Leadership and Learning, Office of Student Conduct, Orientation and Transition Programs, Residence Life and Housing, Student Diversity and Inclusion, Student Health Services, Student Services for Athletes, Student Wellness and Health Promotion, and the University Student Centers. For more information about Student Life, visit the website.