student life

Author: The Crusader Staff Writer, Hannah Schudlik

Belmont Abbey College’s Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student organization that designs and provides exciting activities and programs for student life. CAB is credited with sponsoring various events such as movie nights, dances, talent shows, and holiday parties. Nate Bolton is the faculty advisor for the club, as well as the director of student activities on campus. As a Belmont Abbey alumnus, Nate is dedicated to creating a fun experience and community-based environment for students.

What Do They Do?
Typically, CAB begins planning ideas in September for events that will be held from October through May. Abbeyfest is a traditional Belmont Abbey event held
in the fall semester that incorporates live music, catering, and mini-games for the college’s students and alumni. Last year, October brought chilly weather and beautiful scenery to campus. Thus, CAB hosted “Nightmare on Abbey Lane!” Members of the club guided students, and the school faculty’s children down the spooky-decorated Abbey Lane. Activities included pumpkin carving, costume and decorating contests, live music, games, and trunk-or-treating.

The spring semester consists of planning for an annual dance formal and student talent show. The Spring Formal, hosted by student activities and CAB, surprises
students each year with an unknown destination for a school dance. Previous locations have been the Honey Hunters baseball stadium, downtown Belmont, and
even on a yacht! As March approaches, “Abbey’s Got Talent” will show off Belmont Abbey students singing, dancing, performing comedy routines, and more!

Why You Should Join?
CAB is a great way to meet new people and form friendships! The club meets once a week (typically via Zoom) to discuss ideas and plan events, so it is not too
demanding of one’s time. There is little commitment required, as attendance for meetings and events is not mandatory. The team consists of a President, Vice
President, Secretary, and an abundance of students. Being a part of the council allows for experience in social media management and creating flyers (pictured
below). If you have creative ways to get students involved on campus, email natebolton@bac.edu to join CAB!

This article was originally posted in the Fall 2022, Issue 1 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue.

Author: The Crusader Staff Writer, Amanda Johnson

College is never a perfect time for anybody. For young adults coming out of high school, four years away from home can be hard for anybody. However, it is always important to know about the resources that are available on campus.

ACADEMICS:

• If you are struggling in a class, go to your professor’s office hours – they are there so that students can come and ask for help! In my experience, every professor is happy to meet with you outside of class.
• Tutoring options that are new this year: Look into the STEM Lab on the first floor of the Science Building and the Writing Center in Stowe 216. These are often student-led – so they know what it’s like to be in your shoes!
• Academic Advising is located in the New Residence Hall on the first floor (to the left when you walk in). These lovely ladies are able to help you understand academics here as a whole and might help you figure out what
  classes to take next. If you have already declared your major, get in contact with your academic advisor within your department. You can find their name on Self-Service at the bottom of your unofficial transcript!

MENTAL HEALTH/WELLNESS:

• The Counseling Center is located on the bottom floor of the Haid. You can schedule appointments online at https://belmontabbey-counselingcenter.clientsecure.me and talk with our counselor about anything from academic stress, grief, social distress, and so much more! They take a solution-focused approach, which means that you do not attend for more than 6 sessions.
• The Resident Assistant on duty isn’t only for if you’re locked out or want to make a noise complaint – if you are feeling overwhelmed and need someone immediately to talk to, call them and tell them you’re struggling. Every RA gets trained on how to respond to mental health crises!
• You could also just reach out to your personal RA if you want some guidance or a listening ear and don’t know where else to turn. Your RA is usually on your floor or wing and is always willing to help.
• If you feel unsafe, you can contact Campus Police at (704) 400-6200. They can give you a ride from your car at night if you are parked far away, will jump your car if necessary, and do so much more!

This article was originally posted in the Fall 2022, Issue 1 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue.