Welcome new students, and welcome back all of you who are returning for another semester at HPU! The opportunities before us this term are endless, and in this issue I want to encourage and inspire everyone to do two things: 1. Get involved. 2. Stay in touch.

The quality of a university education goes beyond the boundaries of the classroom. What happens outside the lecture halls deepens and broadens the learning experience and frames education in the context of the world around us. Participating in student activities, co-curricular events, and internships adds great value to our education by connecting us to the community and developing relationships that can last a lifetime.

To do this one must participate, must get involved.

How about trying out a new group or activity, something that you have never tried before. See what happens. You might be pleasantly surprised!

How do you get involved in campus activities? First, you have to know about them, and that means you have to stay in touch with the heartbeat of the University. The best sources of information are Campus Pipeline, to which everyone has access through their computer. Then there is this award-winning student newspaper, Kalamalama. Keep reading this issue for more information! In addition to these resources, note the signs on the mall and the flyers constantly posted by the Student Life Office. These will keep you in touch with all that is going on.

And don’t forget to visit Club Carnival on Jan. 30. Many of the schools most active ethnic, social and activity-oriented organizations will have booths and members ready to tell you all about extra curricular ways to make the most of your education at HPU. Check it out! You will be happy you did!

My job as Chaplain is to help connect you to the faith traditions that have given your life meaning. Our spiritual connections are equally important! All of the local churches, temples, and synagogues are eager to welcome you and make you feel at home. Check out Pipeline for a listing of local houses of worship.

You are all welcome to non-denominational Chapel services every Wednesday at noon at Warmer Auditorium downtown and every Sunday evening at 7:30 on the lanai at the Hawai‘i Loa campus. Join us for singing, an inspirational message, and refreshments. It’s a good way to get off to a great start! Have a terrific semester!