Dear Class of 2023,
Welcome to Douglass! As you begin this incredible journey at the College, I wanted to share with you my Douglass story.
Interestingly enough, Douglass College was the third university in my long college career. I started at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, then transferred to NYU. I didn’t come to Douglass until a fellow Douglass alumna, Adelaide Zagoren, gave me some valuable advice. She told me to finish my degree at Douglass. By that time, I had gotten married and had two children. Returning to college meant I would have to be a back-to-school student on a part-time schedule—a challenge I was willing to accept.
Through Douglass’s Bunting program, I became a Sophia woman and finished my courses over the summer of 1973. With the empowering encouragement of both my family and the Douglass community, I never had to choose between my family and my education. Rather, I was able to actively pursue each of my passions. In addition to my wonderful husband who supported my efforts, and my mother who watched my children many hours a week, I credit my success to the outreach of Adelaide and the support of the faculty and staff at Douglass.
In particular, I cherish the advice and support of a Douglass professor who helped me apply to Rutgers Law School – Camden. I graduated from Rutgers Law in 1980, with four young children at home. I went on to have a full-time career in the New Jersey legal system. I clerked for two judges in New Brunswick and began a practice, Garruto, Galex, and Cantor. In 1997, I became a New Jersey Superior Court judge for Middlesex County and didn’t retire until 2014.
What I remember most about Douglass was my experience as a Sophia woman, spending time in the Sophia Lounge during class breaks, and the joy of having so many strong women in my classes. My gratitude for my Douglass experience endures fifty years later, as I still contribute to both Douglass and Rutgers. Although my journey didn’t start at Douglass, it was truly the place I needed to be.
As you begin your incredible Douglass journey, I’d like to share some advice:
- It’s hard to manage your time, and you may have to put more effort into your studies than you did in high school. However, the difference between an A and a B is just one extra hour of study time. Make a schedule and stick to it.
- Be open to meeting new people and building new friendships! Everyone is looking to bond with sister students. While it may take some time, you will find your place here. If you’re feeling lonely, reach out to an advisor or staff member. Don’t be afraid of getting help.
- Get involved with new activities! Join groups that align with your interests, but also be open to trying new things. I learned to love football and basketball!
I hope that you will always remember the resources and connections the Douglass community will afford you. You made the right decision, as I did many years ago, and one day soon you will be sharing a similar experience with the next generation of Douglass women.
I wish you good luck in your endeavors.
Sincerely,
Jane Bruskin Cantor (JSC ret)
Douglass College ’73; Rutgers Law JD’80
