Health sciences major Frederica Dampson ’26 says she was drawn to Hillyer College because of its smaller class sizes. “Coming from a high school where I knew almost everyone, I wanted an easier transition to college life,” she says. “The smaller classes made me feel comfortable approaching faculty with questions and provided an opportunity for me to build stronger connections with them and my peers, which was important for my personal and academic growth.”
Frederica started her academic journey in Hillyer College and in her third year she seamlessly transitioned into the College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions (ENHP). “The support I received from faculty, both academically and personally, helped me adapt to college life and feel part of the UHart community.”
Among the many Hillyer faculty who have had a positive influence on Frederica include Associate Professor of Mathematics Peggy Beauregard, Academic Strategies Instructor Gail Syring, and Professor of Biology Stephan Bullard. “Professor Bullard’s strategies, such as printing out slides with space for notes and using flashcards, have become habits I carry into my ENHP courses,” she says. “Additionally, Academic Strategies courses taught me how to take notes effectively, which has been invaluable. I’ve also maintained strong relationships with Hillyer faculty who continue to support me.”
Frederica encourages all UHart students to talk to their professors. “More often than not, they are willing to help you. It can start off by asking one or two questions after class or even going to office hours to ask a question.”
She also attributes her academic growth to ENHP Associate Professor of Health Sciences Claudia Oakes, who has recommended she apply to the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP). The free six-week program enables students interested in pursuing health careers to be exposed to clinical settings, complete study skills and learning workshops, and receive academic enrichment in math and science.
Frederica advises students to take advantage of on-campus resources like the Allan Center for Career and Professional Development to set themselves up for academic and professional success. Through the Center, she was hired as a social media intern for Women Inspiring Supporting Empowering Network, where she created newsletters and emails. “This experience not only helped me build professional skills but also gave me practical insights into the field of public health,” says Frederica, who is planning to attend graduate school to study public health, and then perhaps law school to become a public health attorney.
She points out that getting involved in campus organizations early on is a great way to meet people and feel connected to the campus community. Frederica serves as the secretary of the African Student Union (ASU) which celebrates and promotes African culture while creating a sense of community for students. “You don’t even have to be African to join,” she says. “I’ve also been involved in BSU (Black Student Union) and its annual fashion show where anyone can join in and try out to be a model and be part of the show.”
Frederica Dampson ’26, Hillyer College and College of Education, Nursing and Health ProfessionsThe support I received from faculty, both academically and personally, helped me adapt to college life and feel part of the UHart community.