Have you ever experienced immediate peacefulness as you reach the corner of North Warren Street, entering the turf of Fields and Schoenfeldt Hall?
Yes? So did I. I decided to explore the unique appeal of Fields and Schoenfeld Hall (FISCH) in order to uncover what makes their residents call it home.
After attending some of their January events, I found the peaceful nature of UP’s residence halls at its peak in FISCH.
FISCH Director Jordan Duran describes the community as a quiet, content group of residents.
“There is a lot of potential here,” Duran said. “They all seem to be having a grand old time.”
His history with Schoenfeldt goes back to 2016, when he first resided in the hall as a student. Some of the hall’s current favorite events and traditions were inspired by Duran’s time as a resident. Two such events he chose to replicate were Cereal Sundays and Cookie Sundays, which he hosts alongside Pastoral Resident Fr. John Donato.
When Duran was a student living in Schoenfeldt Hall, his Pastoral residents were Donato and Fr. Gerard Olinger, whose engaging events sparked Duran to carry that legacy into his time as hall director.
Two students pose for a photo in Duran's residence. Media Credit: Evan Guerra / The Beacon
Both Pastoral residents would alternate Sundays to hold their events. Fr. Gerard would have Sunday Cookies, and Donato would host his Cereal Sundays.
Back when Duran was a resident, he found these events to be a good break from studying that provided a peaceful space to relax.
“I really enjoyed that as a student,” Duran said. “One of the first things I wanted to bring back was the cookies.”
Cereal Sundays with Fr. John Donato
Donato, a Holy Cross priest, started as the Pastoral Resident for Fields in 2011. That year, he noticed how early the women's rowing team was up for their morning practices and wondered how they managed such a demanding schedule.
When asked, their answer was simple: cereal.
“And so thus was born Cereal Sunday,” Donato said.
Cereal Sundays have been a big hit in the FISCH community — many residents consistently show up and look forward to the event. Donato provides such a warm, welcoming place, and you can feel the instant calmness as soon as you dip your spoon into a bowl of cereal.
Donato says he’s easily able to provide this peaceful environment during his event because of the respect that he is shown by his residents.
“I love being with students,” Donato said. “Everyone is joyful and attentive. It’s a pretty studious hall with lots of bright people.”
Students eat cookies baked by Hall Director Jordan Duran. Media Credit: Michaela Gold / The Beacon
Trader Joe’s Themed Snack Night
Junior Resident Assistant (RA) Angelo Datu Vicencio held a Trader Joe’s Themed Snack Night for the first time on Jan. 22 in the FISCH lobby.
This event entailed a spread of Trader Joe’s snacks, such as their classic white cheddar puffs.
After a great debut turnout, Vicencio plans to hold this event at the end of each month.
During the event, sophomore Jianna Matundan described the FISCH community as the perfect place for growth.
“It just feels comfortable here, with a very united community,” Matundan said. “We’re just learning as we’re growing. I feel like this dorm perfectly describes growth.”
Vicencio says he enjoys working alongside his fellow co-workers as he gains encouragement and support while trying out new events.
He also emphasized feeling joy in his role as an RA, and he hopes to continue this role throughout his academic years.
“I like being able to surprise myself and build up my confidence,” Vicencio said, “In general, learning, growing and adapting is what I really like.”
Fields and Schoenfeldt Hall. The building was opened in 2009 and sits in the 'West Quad' of campus. Media Credit: Evan Guerra / The Beacon
Angelo Datu Vicencio’s Jollibee event
RA Vicencio’s Jollibee event, lined with FISCH residents, was a big success. Jollibee is a Filipino fast food restaurant. During this event, Vicencio served their famous fried chicken.
“[Eating at Jollibee] was a favorite memory of mine,” Vicencio said. “I was nervous going in, but at the end, I felt very happy and excited.”
The hall staff is quick to hop on trends and bring them to their events, experiencing great turn outs.
After exploring the united community of Fields and Schoenfeldt Hall, my eyes were opened up to a part of UP that’s grounded in connection, shown through quiet conversation and traditions within their turf.
If you are looking for a peaceful, studious residence hall, FISCH is the place for you. Fields and Schoenfeldt Hall will provide a warm welcome for all who hope to join their community.
Darcy Boss is a news reporter for the Beacon. She can be reached at boss29@up.edu.
