Meet Justin Bloch!

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

” I love hiking, especially with my friends. I also swim a lot, and play cards with friends. I also spend a bunch of time baking/cooking now, which is super fun to do for large groups of people.”

What is your favorite collegiate meal? 

“My favorite meal that I’ve had at college would probably be brats, with veggies, fruit, and chips on the side.”

What is your favorite view in Duluth?

“My favorite view in Duluth is from Hartley. There is a boardwalk that some friends and I went on one winter night to see the stars, which was amazing.”

What do you like about the community at Newman?

“There is something to be said about being surrounded by people who support what you are doing to grow in your faith and who are striving to do the same thing. The people in the Newman community are constantly working to grow stronger relationships with God, and this sets a great example to follow. The people in the community are also extremely welcoming. They don’t mind if you aren’t Catholic or aren’t very strong in your faith; everyone is just happy that you come and spend time with the community”

Why should other students at UMD come to an event? 

“Getting involved in the Newman community can only benefit your spiritual life. One way to get to know people in the community and grow in relationships with them is to attend the Newman events. Even if you aren’t interested in growing in your faith, the people who attend the events are fun to be around and talk to. However, going to mass is truly incredible. While going to the Sunday masses is definitely a must, going to any (or all!) of the weekday masses is absolutely incredible.Going to mass has filled me with peace and joy every time I have gone. Many of the other events such as Rosary and Bible Study have similar effects, as well as being great for making friends with people who go to the events too.”

What advice would you give Catholic high school seniors who are anxious about college next year? 

“My advice to high school seniors would be to plan on going to many of the Newman events right away in the year. While the community is just as welcoming if you don’t get involved until later, it can be much easier to get involved when everyone else is just getting to know people too. If you wait until later in the year because you aren’t sure about it, then you might feel like everyone already know each other by the time you want to join. Also, sticking around for a few minutes after any of the masses is great way to meet people! Many people stay and talk after mass, and it can be a great time to introduce yourself to people who you know care about their faith. On that note, even before college starts, make a commitment to going to mass every Sunday. After all, if you don’t spend time with the Lord regularly, you have bigger things to worry about than your upcoming classes and making friends.”