The beginning of a new semester is an exciting time — but it can also be an anxious and stressful experience for some.
In addition to the many resident assistants, each residence hall has a hall minister to provide pastoral care and be a spiritual presence for all residents and building staff.
In collaboration with the staff, hall ministers are charged with helping form a residential community that expresses the university’s Catholic, Jesuit mission, while accompanying individuals dealing with stress, illness, loss, loneliness, relationships, spiritual and emotional health and more.
In this Q&A, Jordan Kiokee, hall minister for Mashuda Hall, talks about what she likes the most about Marquette University and Milwaukee.
What was your undergraduate degree in? Why did you pursue that discipline?
For my undergraduate degree, I majored in psychology, with minors in philosophy and religious studies. I chose these areas of study because I have always had a fascination with exploring the big questions in life. Questions like “Why do people act the way that they do? What is justice? What is the meaning of life? Is there a god? What causes poverty?” As early as high school I decided to read philosophers, psychologists and theologians in the hopes of finding answers to these questions and continued doing so officially in college!
Why did you want to be a hall minister?
I wanted to be a hall minister because I worked in Campus Ministry as an undergraduate and wanted to continue doing so after graduation. I love working with students, especially in terms of mentorship, building relationships and fostering community, all of which I can do as a hall minister!
What makes Marquette special to you?
Marquette is special to me because I attended graduate school here after graduating from Cardinal Stritch University. Cardinal Stritch was my alma mater that unfortunately closed, and so now that role is filled by Marquette, where I studied public service as a Trinity Fellow.
What is your favorite memory made at Marquette or in Milwaukee?
My favorite memory at Marquette was my final retreat as a Trinity Fellow. Spending the day with my cohort of two years in thoughtful reflection and sharing meals was an experience I will never forget! Shoutout to the Trinity Fellows staff Natalie, Alisha, and Peggy!
What is one thing you’re looking forward to this academic year?
I am looking forward to all the reflections I get to lead at the hall staff meetings. It is one of my favorite points of connection with the hall staff and helps build community among the hall leadership.
Favorite movie: The Treasure of the Sierra Madre
Favorite location on campus: The 707 Building
Favorite hobby: Reading!
Favorite restaurant: Balistreri’s on Bluemound
Favorite dessert: Cheesecake
