Newmanite Profile: Veronica Hayes

How does the Newman Center assist you in your faith journey?

Going to the Newman Center was the best decision I could have ever made for my faith journey. As an ECU student I have encountered many different challenges ranging from decisions made on the weekends to decisions made in the class room. It is because of the Newman center that I have been able to stay to myself and to God. The retreats that I have attended which are now being counted on 2 hands and the alternative spring break that I participated in has helped me to really dig into my inner faith. Also, the bi-weekly (Wednesday and Sunday Mass) Homily's given by Father Bill have stirred my prayer life in so many positive ways. I have learned more about how to let God into my life since coming to the Newman Center.

What is something about Newman Center that you wished everyone could experience?

Now as a veteran Newmanite there are so many memories with the Newman center that I wish everyone could experience. However, the true sense of family is what I really want everyone to feel. The situation in particular that comes to mind occurred in the winter of last year. I was very upset about having to say goodbye to a very dear friend who was leaving the states to go home to family. I was not quite sure what to do with myself and one Wednesday evening, while cooking at Newman, it all came crashing down on me. I removed myself from everyone to handle the situation by myself and despite my attempts, my family came searching and literally wrapped their arms around me to carry me through the difficult time.

What are your plans for the future?

As I plan for my future the quote 'If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans' often comes to mind and puts a smile on my face. I want to finish my undergraduate studies at ECU with a degree in Nutrition and a minor in exercise and sports science. Recently it has been a dream of mine to be an incredible personal trainer known by people all over the world. But, as I have learned in the past two years, things change all the time, especially dreams! I want to graduate from ECU, none the less, and complete a sports nutrition graduate program in California. I believe this will then lead me well down the path of all my dreams and hopes for a well rounded, career, husband and children! But I will continue to try and not make God laugh...