Behind the Scenes of Campus Life with Brittany Vytal

Campus vibrancy starts with personal connections for Brittany Vytal, Assistant Director of Campus Life.

Step into Brittany Vytal’s office in the Center for Campus Life on the Boston campus of Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) and you will catch a glimpse of some of the exciting activities planned for the upcoming academic year.

Brittany is always busy adding details to bulletin boards. She tacks up plans for the Harvest Ball, a list of activities for Cardinal Thursdays, and a schedule for the Campus Activities Board, a student organization she advises.

As Assistant Director of Campus Life within the Division of Student Affairs, Brittany’s focus is on creating a vibrant, student-centered environment designed to empower students to thrive during their time at MCPHS.

One way she does this is by taking time to personally connect with students to learn more about their interests, passions, and goals. “My favorite part of my job is the amount of one-on-one time I get with students,” said Brittany. “My position allows me to speak with students about their ideas on events, initiatives, community work, and leadership development. “

For Brittany, seeing students thrive through her guidance and advice is extremely meaningful. “I absolutely love seeing my students take their ideas from something on paper to a fully realized program,” said Brittany. ”Being able to see how proud they are and how their idea positively impact other students is amazing.”

We talked with Brittany to learn more about campus life, her role, and her advice for current students.

What does it mean to be a member of the MCPHS community?

The MCPHS community is full of passionate and inspired students, staff, and faculty. Everyone here shares the common purpose of bettering themselves and their community through their involvement inside and outside of the University. I love that our students are constantly exploring, getting to know their skills, and contributing to our campus culture.

What makes MCPHS unique?

Our students, of course! Each one is incredibly passionate about the healthcare field and is determined to make a difference in the world. You will not find students more dedicated to their studies, as well as to bringing their knowledge into their communities.

How do your students inspire you?

Our students are always thinking bigger and better when it comes to all aspects of their time at MCPHS. That inspires me to think outside the box and push myself to create better events, programs, and trainings for them.

Tell us about one of the best parts of your job.

One of the best parts of my job is working with student leaders. I have the honor of supervising some very talented and compassionate students. Each brings something new to the table that makes each day fun and exciting.

What is your favorite campus life experience at MCPHS?

My favorite part is Harvest Ball! It’s the largest special event that we put on in the Center for Campus Life. This annual formal event, held in November, brings more than 700 students and staff together. The ball is a gorgeous event that allows students to dress up; it includes an appetizer reception, plated dinner, and an awesome DJ for dancing the night away.

What is your biggest piece of advice for first year students?

Experience as much as you can! MCPHS has so many experiences for students to participate in. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it's joining a club, going on an off-campus trip, or trying a type of food, college is all about new experiences. One thing some students say around commencement time is that they wish they had been involved more. Make sure that doesn’t happen to you! Experience life outside of the classroom.

Why do you recommend getting involved with extracurricular and leadership opportunities?

Employers are looking for students who developed soft skills while in college. Becoming involved during your time at MCPHS will allow you to not only develop yourself personally and professionally but also to make new friends, take chances, and try new experiences.

What’s the best way for students to get involved?

We offer lots of great ways to get involved. One is our Campus Life Fair, which is held each fall during the second week of classes. This fair allows students to learn more about the clubs and professional organizations available on the Boston campus, and through the Colleges of the Fenway. Another great way to get involved is by applying to one of four student leadership roles: Assembly of Clubs and Professional Organizations (ACPO), Campus Activities Board (CAB), Intercultural Student Advocates (ISA) and the Student Government Association (SGA). Or, you can stop by our office in White Basement 02!