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 to and be a spiritual presence for all residents and building staff.
In collaboration with the staff, hall ministers are charged with helping to 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, Dominique Vazquez, hall minister for Schroeder 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?
I graduated from Marquette with a Bachelor of Science in elementary/middle school education with a minor in theology. When I enrolled at Marquette my freshman year I came in as a biomedical sciences major. However, I quickly realized my passion was not for medicine. I always knew I wanted to work with students so after talking with some of my friends who were in the College of Education and praying about it, I switched my major to elementary education and have loved it ever since.
Why did you want to be a hall minister?
When the hall minister position presented itself to me, I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to serve and accompany others through faith while also growing myself. My faith has always been an important part of my life, so I’m excited to get to share that with others and foster a community. I’m lucky and feel honored that I can accompany the students here as they navigate one of life’s biggest transitions. I hope I can help build a strong community with students, be there to journey with them, and provide support wherever I can.
What makes Marquette special to you?
Marquette is special to me because of the people I have met here. In my time here, I have treasured getting to know the professors, staff, Jesuits and lifelong friends. All these people have shaped my Marquette experience and made it into a place where I truly feel welcomed and belong.
What is your favorite memory made at Marquette or in Milwaukee?
My favorite memory at Marquette was getting to cantor in the Joan of Arc chapel when it reopened after being refurbished. There were so many people there, and we were given a cute mug with the chapel on it and a Marquette shirt. Since the chapel had been closed for so long, it was an honor to be part of its reopening. It was one of the best 10 p.m. Masses I ever attended.
What is one thing you’re looking forward to this academic year?
I love this question because it applies to three different areas of my life. For Hall Ministry, I’m looking forward to seeing community and friendships form throughout the school year. As a third-grade teacher, I’m looking forward to watching all of my students grow and see their excitement for all that we will be doing. Finally, as a graduate student, I’m looking forward to continuing to understand more about the administrative roles in the education system.
Favorite movie: “Anne of Green Gables” from 1985.
Favorite location on campus: My favorite location on campus is the bench behind Lalumiere Hall. I noticed the bench my freshman year and have always gone there to journal, have deep talks with friends, or just sit for a quiet moment to myself — even though it is right by the highway.
Favorite hobby: Singing or journaling!
Favorite restaurant in Milwaukee: The Gingerbread House! It’s in New Berlin, but not that far away from the city.
Favorite dessert: It’s a tie between cheesecake and snickerdoodle cookies!
