Written by Connor Pellerin ’23
Every year, Thomas College welcomes in a new class of rising first years who are ready to take on the collegiate experience. With this, they say goodbye to the class of 2023, the graduating seniors. After all their hard work in the classroom, it is time for Thomas’s seniors to show the world what they’re made of. This leaves room for the incoming class to make their mark on Thomas, and prepare themselves for a promising future before them.
With a new year comes new goals, new expectations, and a new journey ahead. The first-year experience is unique in the sense that new students get to start from a fresh slate, solidifying their chance to make a mark in a new academic scene. It doesn’t matter if you are a first year, senior, or a staff member, Thomas makes quite the impact on those who walk through the halls of this small school in Central Maine.
When asked about his experience at Thomas, first year student Isak Granstrom said, “My first semester was good and I feel like I have gotten into it all and was happy with my academic results last semester and I am obviously aiming to achieve the same or better results this semester. I really like the close knit community where everyone can talk each other and be polite and show respect no matter where you are from.”
According to Owen McQuarrie ’23, “Thomas is like my second family. The campus is accepting, our professors care about the student population, and faculty and staff are there to greet you with a smile around every corner. Thomas truly has been the experience of a lifetime.”
Students aren’t the only ones at Thomas who have experiences that are life changing. When speaking to staff member Austen Schutte, the Title III Grant Specialist at Thomas College, he spoke fondly about his time on campus. “This school [Thomas College] to me is like a second home. Everyone is super friendly, and you just immediately feel like you are accepted. The kindness of those around you make for one of the greatest work environments around. Truly an experience like no other.”
Thomas’s students, faculty, and staff all share unique experiences, but all share one common trait: their experiences here on campus are like no other! Thomas is a family; a true home away from home.