Mount Celebrates the Class of 2021 at Annual ‘Phin Fest
9/1/2017
Riverdale, N.Y. – The University of Mount Saint Vincent celebrated the Class of 2021 on August 31 with an annual tradition: ‘Phin Fest. A day of activities designed to immerse students into the Mount’s inclusive, close-knit community, ‘Phin Fest included the opportunity for first-year students to take home their own Vinny mascot at BOP’s Stuff a Dolphin event, attend the Mass of the Holy Spirit and Matriculation Ceremony, and explore the ‘Phin Fest Student Involvement Fair, where freshmen mingled with new classmates, enjoyed a picnic-style dinner, and explored potential clubs and organizations to join.
Brooklyn native Jennifer Puac ’21 said the Mount stood out during her college search because of its warm, welcoming students. “You can tell when students aren’t crazy about their school, but at the Mount, everyone was really passionate and excited to talk about the wonderful things happening here,” she said. That includes a growing 475 member freshman class, as well as completed renovations to Spellman Hall.
The growth of the Mount was noted by alumna Victoria Alas ’15, a friend of current student and senior Alex Plumacher ’18. The Peekskill native who earned her B.S. in nursing, said the campus had changed considerably since her freshman year. “It’s definitely getting bigger, which is great, but is still retaining its intimate feel,” she said. It was that same feeling that attracted Mr. Plumacher to the College. “I remember touring campus for the first time and seeing the view of the Hudson River from Founders Hall,” he said. “That’s the moment I knew I had to come here.”
A communication major with dreams of becoming a Los Angeles-based filmmaker, Mr. Plumacher said his main advice to freshmen is to “talk to as many new people as possible, even when it’s uncomfortable.” It was advice Mr. Plumacher said helped him come out of his shell. “I love the Mount because it’s diverse and accepting, with more to offer than you might think,” he said.
Liana Adhanom ’21, who hails from Los Angeles, California, said she chose the Mount because she wanted to study in a place different from where she grew up, but still have access to a big city. With relatives scattered throughout the New York metropolitan area, Ms. Adhanom knew she would still feel at home. With an interest in music production as a potential career, Ms. Adhanom plans to major in communication and dive deep into New York’s storied cultural resources.
Alyssa Chaiaroon ’21, a Bronx native, said she chose the Mount because of its rich academic offerings and peaceful setting. She wants to join several clubs, including the Student Government Association and the Mount Saint Vincent chapter of A Moment of Magic Foundation, founded by Mount alumnae Kylee McGrane ’17 and Margaret McAndrew ’17. “I can’t wait to get started,” Ms. Chaiaroon said.
The Mount currently offers more than 40 clubs and organizations to students—and that number continues to grow. During the spring 2017 semester, students launched Artivism, an art club geared toward social activism. Artivism members have participated in events including the Women’s March on New York City and the March for Science, which was held last Earth Day. The College gives students plenty of opportunities to explore their passions in and outside the classroom—a vibrant campus life is part of the Mount’s mission.
About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational, and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for lives of professional accomplishment, service, and leadership in the 21st century.