VSA President urges “open mind” for new year

Vassar Student Association (VSA) President Abel McDonnell ’07 has several plans and goals for the upcoming academic year. These goals range from improving the technology that VSA uses for elections to engaging in discussions about improving financial aid with new College President Catharine “Cappy” Hill.

McDonnell said that Hill is “very committed” to improving financial aid, and noted that the VSA Executive Board will meet with her on a bi-weekly basis to collaborate. “Vassar does a great job with financial aid, but there is always more to be done,” said McDonnell.

Nevertheless, McDonnell, who took office in May, also acknowledged that he is still learning the exact responsibilities of his job. “[A VSA president has] to learn to trust others and rely on other people,” he said. “It takes a delicate balance of assertiveness and humility. You need to stick up for what you think is right, but know that you won’t always be right.”

A Massachusetts native, McDonnell came to Vassar with plans to study theatre, but is now double-majoring in political science and English. “I was a week away from applying to Haverford Early Decision, but everyone here was very friendly and very happy.” Since then, he has participated in a number of Vassar organizations, including Happily Ever Laughter, College Democrats, and the Raymond House team. McDonnell held the position of Raymond House president for the 2005–2006 academic year.

McDonnell advised the Class of 2010 to “keep an open mind about what you believe you believe and what you want to do” by taking a wide variety of classes. “If you’re here to become a doctor, take a dance class,” said McDonnell. “If you’re here to be a writer, take a biology class.”