Printed: August 25, 2025
Welcome to the University of Southern Maine! Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or returning to continue your journey, I want to personally welcome you to the University of Southern Maine (USM) community. You are an essential part of what makes USM such a vibrant and dynamic place to learn and grow.
As your Dean of Students, my mission is to ensure that your experience here is both meaningful and successful. The Division of Student Affairs is here to support you in every aspect of your college life—academically, personally, and socially. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and empowering campus environment.
Let’s be real: college is an investment. It requires your time, your commitment, and yes, your money. Like any investment, your return depends on how much you put in. Skipping class, falling behind, or treating the experience passively can come at a real cost. Avoid that risk—go to class, stay engaged, and make the most of this opportunity. You’re investing in your future, so protect that investment by committing fully to your journey and seeing it through to completion.
Remember: learning is not a spectator sport. Faculty are here to teach you—but teaching and learning are not one-sided. You must show up ready to absorb, apply, and expand upon what you learn. College is not just about sitting in class and magically becoming an expert. Your brain doesn’t work that way. You have to process, practice, and retain the information—and that takes effort.
It’s not always easy. That’s why we have campus resources available to help you succeed—tutoring, advising, counseling, academic support, and more. Never hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Successful students use what’s available to them. You don’t have to go it alone. Here are a few more helpful tips to start your semester strong: Download the Navigate USM App. This app is your go-to tool for staying connected—track your class schedule, find study buddies, get alerts from your faculty, view the campus events calendar, and more. You can download it via the Dean of Students website. Usm. maine.edu/deanofstudents
Plan Ahead: Mark key academic dates like drop/add deadlines and exam weeks in your calendar. With only 15 weeks in a semester, it’s important to stay on top of your responsibilities. Plan your work and work your plan—even when life throws you a curveball.
Use Campus Resources: From tutoring and advising to career services and mental health support, USM offers a wide range of resources designed to help you thrive. Explore them all on your campus portal and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Prioritize Safety: Take a moment to learn about our campus safety services. USM Police are here to support you, but safety is a shared responsibility— lock your car, stay aware, and help keep our community secure.
Get Involved: Join clubs, student orgs, or a campus recreation team. Getting involved is one of the best ways to meet new people, find your passion, and make the most of your time at USM. Check out the Campus Groups app to find events and organizations that match your interests. Above all, know that you belong here. Whatever challenges or victories this semester brings, we are here to walk alongside you. I encourage you to reach out, get connected, and make this semester your best one yet. Here’s to an amazing year ahead. See you around campus!
Rodney Mondor
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Dean of Students
IG: usm_deanofstudents
