StrengthsQuest, a pilot program for SMU first years, held its kick-off event Monday. Students enjoyed their choice of vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream while they familiarized themselves with the new program.

Prior to StrengthsQuest, SMU used a similar test called True Colors to discover personality traits. However, StrenghtsQuest is more specific. It offers over 34 different qualities to choose from, compared to the four traits of True Colors.

Although StrengthsQuest was experimented with last year, this year was the first year in which all students who attended Mustang Corral participated in the program. Prior to Corral, first years were required to take a test to decide their top five strengths. During the retreat, Corral leaders discussed how important each strength is to the community as a whole.

Freshmen are not the only ones making the most of the program. Groups such as Student Senate are also benefiting from StrengthsQuest. Even the Greek Leadership class is using the innovative program.

Dee Siscoe, a StrengthsQuest coordinator, said it is a positive way to focus on important leadership abilities using a common language that everyone can relate to.

The purpose of the ice cream social was to receive student responses as well as to provide social interaction between staff members and students. Each month, members from the student affairs staff will e-mail students who share their same primary strength. After the social, students will be able to put a face with the e-mails.

“I really enjoyed getting to know the staff members who share my strengths. a first year senator Erika Briceño said. “I am so glad I attended the reception.”

StrengthsQuest emphasizes unity as well as individuality. While there are over 33 million different combinations of five different strengths, many students share the same abilities. The goal of the program is to show students what they do well and how to utilize their strengths both at SMU and in the professional world.