As the new school year approaches, students of all ages, both commuters and residents, are preparing to further their education, all while having a great time.

Commuter assistant and UMass Dartmouth senior Mandy Magalhaes has various activities planned for incoming students on campus. As the commuter assistant, Magalhaes’ goal is to be a resource for commuter students and to help first-year students transition into college.

“Commuters should make sure they check out all the resources available to them on campus such as tutoring centers, the career development center, Ludic center (volunteer opportunities), the Fredrick Douglass Unity House and the Counseling Center, to just name a few,” said Magalhaes.

On campus, Magalhaes is involved in activities run by Student Activities, Involvement and Leadership (SAIL) and the Center for Women Gender and Sexuality, along with other groups and her own group, UMass Dartmouth Color Guard.

“I really wanted to have a more hands-on approach to help students across the board,” said Magalhaes. “This is my senior year, and I would love to have a commuter shadow me and help out with all the events.”

She said they should also check out the commuter newsletter for helpful information and to keep up to date on events on campus.

“Commuter students should also join the commuter page on Facebook and on the new Involvio App and make sure that they attend commuter events for free food and fun,” said Magalhaes. “New students should also know that I am a resource for them for both academic life and personal life.”

Beginning in September, there are many events planned that commuter students can take part in. The Corsair Olympics at UMass Dartmouth is one example of the way the first-year class can unite through teamwork and competition. And the commuter team has won three out of the past seven years.

“UMass Dartmouth is very much what you make of it, and if you put yourself out there, you will have a ship-rocking experience,” said Magalhaes.