An interactive book fair replaced a panel discussion for the annual book discussion at Seton Hill University (SHU) Thursday morning.
John Medina’s “Brain Rules” was selected as a required summer reading for all incoming freshmen. “Brain Rules” decodes 12 distinct areas of everyday life that affect the brain and offers ways to combat these problems.
Students were expected to attend group discussions based on their academic major to share their thoughts on the concepts in the book.
A book fair was held immediately after the group discussions. Students were able to visit tables devoted to each brain rule, with helpful tips from SHU clubs and organizations.
Students were also given the opportunity to sign up for various clubs to continue these helpful brain power practices throughout the year.
“The fair went great, I think, and students and faculty seemed to enjoy it. I’m not sure if we’re doing a fair or not for next year, but I think this worked well for ‘Brain Rules.’ I know from my discussion that students seemed to take a lot from the text, and I’ve heard positive comments from other faculty facilitators, as well,” said chair of the book discussion committee and professor Nicole Peeler.
“You’ve read this book, how can you apply it to your own lives?” asked Peeler when addressing the students at the book fair.
Freshman biology major Dustin Martin noted that the chapter on sleep was most important to his own life, “not only because I like it, but because it is important to brain power.”
“The chapter on memory will be helpful to my study habits. Memory is important not only to repeat things, but to have time in between to retain the information,” said freshman Hallie Gilbert, a physician assistant student.
Mass was held to ask blessings over the SHU community and to offer the opening liturgy. Nearly full, St. Joseph Chapel was the host to a number of students, faculty and staff. Several students and professionals helped with the music and various parts of the mass.
Interim president, Bibiana Boerio, asked students to listen to the story of her own career while keeping in mind their individual career goals. Boerio’s speech was one of her first speaking engagements in front of students.
Boerio suggested following advice from the “Brain Rules” saying, “Stop and relax, eat well, talk to each other and learn how to learn”.
“If you take anything from this mass, I want you to remember four words. You are never alone,” said Monsignor John Regoli. He encouraged students to look to God, classmates and faculty for guidance in times of need.