Adjusting to the college environment can be tough, but “The First Semester”, a play delving into the lives of five college students and the issues they face, can assist students in making the transition from high school to college.
“I’ve seen the play before, and I can say with confidence that it’s a production that can impact the lives of students, even those who have already seen the play,” graduate student Zach Shirley said.
“The First Semester”, written and produced by the Rev. Lance E. Brown, addresses many of the problems faced by students on today’s university campuses, which include drug abuse; binge drinking; sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and AIDS; and, cheating and plagiarism.
Robert Dotson, director of the Office of Diversity and Cultural Affairs, encourages faculty and staff, and students of all classifications to attend The First Semester.
“Students should be aware that these issues do exist. Hopefully this production will help them wake up and realize they aren’t invincible.”
Dotson also understands that there may be students who are skeptical about attending The First Semester because the story is told by five African-American students.
“These issues have no color. Stress plagues everyone. Depression plays no favorites. And sexually transmitted diseases don’t discriminate,” he said. “I encourage all students to enter the production with an open mind and attitude and be assured that they will be able to take something away that will help them or someone else.”
The First Semester also addresses issues concerning time management and civility; issues that Dotson feels are vital to success in college.
“Attendees; whether faculty, staff or students, will find an issue that they can relate to and that’s the beauty of this play,” Dotson said.
The First Semester starts at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 5 and can be seen at the Memorial Student Center on the third floor in the American Ballroom. It is free to the public.