Paris Coleman
Major : Communication and Media Arts
High School : Middletown High School
Hometown : Bear, DE
Activities : Joust Newspaper, Campus Ministry Co-Coordinator
for St. Francis Inn, Black Student Union
You might call Paris Coleman somewhat of a risk taker. Having never
set foot on Neumann's campus, she applied and was accepted. Paris
doesn't think of her quick decision as impulsive. None of the schools
she had visited really made an impact on her. Moreover, although she
wanted to live on campus, she had to commute to college for financial
reasons from her Bear, Delaware, home. Many high school friends who
had visited the College raved about how great it was: the nice campus,
the friendly people, and the great mix of programs. It was a perfect
choice for her; and, once she did step foot on Neumann's campus, she
says, "It was love at first sight."
Paris describes Neumann as "her oasis amid the busy world. It's
such a contrast to the big city environment and campuses I had visited.
It's so peaceful and calming here to me." She feels this attribute
stems from the College's Franciscan mission.
"Faculty, staff, and administration try to model the ways
of St. Francis. This creates basic values which foster kindness
and a willingness to be helpful. People here go above and beyond
to help students. This creates for me a sense of tranquility and
serenity that I enjoy."
The Franciscan values also permeate through the faculty, she says.
Because they are so helpful and supportive on both an academic
and personal level, Paris regards her professors as "more
than just teachers. They're like friends in that they really get
to know you and are genuinely interested and concerned with your
success." She dreams of a career as either a broadcast journalist
or graphic designer. Both careers appeal to her creative, artistic,
and fun-loving nature as well as to her love of technology.
Paris says she's had a lot of ups and downs with college life;
but she wouldn't trade her experience at Neumann for anything.
"I never realized how much you're on your own once you get
to college. You get a taste for how it is to truly be an adult
and make decisions that affect your life." She says she has
learned to take advantage of challenges that come her way as a
means to get to know herself.
Paris has decided to make the most of her college experience by
getting involved in activities. Even though I'm a commuter, I'm
here so much, people think I live here. I like being involved.
It's so important. Neumann has a small campus, but much is available.
I feel if I put my heart and time into something, it will open
doors for other opportunities."
