Lake by Day, Props by Night

The lake was beautiful, and the day was perfect. The afternoon was well spent, and before the students knew it, it was time to head back to campus. 

Still shaking sand from their hair and checking their new tans, they came to Gould Commons, where they sated their hunger with a dinner of pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes, and roasted carrots. Afterward, en route to study hall, they stopped in Doblen Auditorium, where College and Career Counselor Dan Selmeczy gave a brief talk.

While Thomas Aquinas College offers a single, integrated academic program, Mr. Selmeczy explained, the array of careers that can come from it are incredible. From medicine, to technology, to law, Thomas Aquinas College provides a true ability to think for yourself, as well as valuable communication and presentation experience. He also mentioned the wonderful network of TAC alumni and the support that the College offers to those searching for jobs. At the end of his talk, Mr. Selmeczy stuck around to answer students’ questions.

Meanwhile, study hall began. This evening’s session went differently from most. Students started by working through their reading of Boethius’s Consolation of Philosophy. However, about an hour in, they got a change of scenery by walking up to St. Gianna Molla Hall, where they were able to practice their Euclidean propositions.

Monday morning’s class laid the foundation for the geometrical proofs students would soon encounter. Monday evening, they were able to put that into practice by reviewing the first three props of the Elements. Prefects were in the room to give an example demonstration, answer questions, and guide students along the way. The hour passed quickly, and before they knew it, it was time for the Rosary!

Study hall wasn’t the only thing that was different this evening. Instead of holding Rosary in Our Mother of Perpetual Help Chapel, the chaplains hosted an outdoor procession. Altar servers, both prefects and students, led with a crucifix, held candles, and bore a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Fr. Markey and Fr. Viego followed as Fr. Miguel led the students in reciting the Joyful Mysteries. Afterward, back in the Chapel, the priests enrolled several students in the Brown Scapular, in honor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

Once Fr. Miguel gave the final blessing, students made their way to the Bl. Frassati Student Center for the evening’s Coffee Shop, an hour of milkshakes, snacks, cards, pool, and good conversations. Student John P. reflected on his experience with the Summer Program and his time in Thomas Aquinas College’s classrooms. “I’ve really enjoyed the Discussion Method,” he said. “In most classrooms, it’s set up so that it’s only a dialogue between one student and the teacher, but here, everyone can converse. If someone asks a question, it’s not left for the teacher to answer; anyone gets to follow up with it, and I think that’s the way a classroom should work.”

With an exciting morning ahead of them, students headed back to their residence halls at curfew. Many went to get a good night’s sleep, others made some time to review their Euclid, and still others kept their conversations going. It’s hard to believe we’re well into the second week, but the close friendships made and the terrific discussions that are taking place testify to the passage of time.

We still have a great week ahead of us! Check back in with the Summer Program Blog later today to hear about the programmers’ first Euclid demonstrations!