I am a curious person who loves to help people and serving in this role will help me understand a lot and give me an idea of how I can help people even more.
Dhareen Jean-Michel, ’28, takes Bridgewater State University’s motto, "Not to be ministered unto, but to minister" to heart, especially in his new role as student trustee on the university’s 11-member board.
“I really want to serve people and work for the people as our motto states,” Dhareen said. “I am in a position where I can listen to and help students. I look forward to hearing the ideas they want to see implemented and hopefully set those plans in motion.”
After serving as student government senator last year, he knew he wanted to continue representing his peers. Specific areas Dhareen hopes to highlight during his tenure include mental health initiatives, community outreach and expanding connections on campus.
Since being appointed in May, he has received support from all board members, something Dhareen said he is grateful for.
“We have a group of phenomenal people running our university. They have helped me understand what is happening not only at the administrative level, but also within the community, as well as the state and federal levels,” he said.
Growing up in Stoughton, Dhareen often found himself looking up at the stars, and questioning how they got there.
“I’m a curious person and love to learn. Space is one of those things you never stop learning about, you can spend a lifetime studying the cosmos and barely scratch the surface,” he said.
He also has an affinity for biology.
“I’ve just always enjoyed it, it’s always come easy to me,” Dhareen said, which is how he came to major in the discipline, with a concentration in cellular physics. His goal is to pursue a career in astrobiology.
His sense of curiosity will bring valuable perspective to the board and help him strengthen his own communication skills.
“Learning how to communicate with different people from different cultures and being aware of that, and to be able to connect with so many people, these are skills that will be applicable in all I do,” he said.
During his year-long term, Dhareen ultimately wants to make a difference.
“I am a curious person who loves to help people and serving in this role will help me understand a lot and give me an idea of how I can help people even more,” he said.
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