Was there a defining moment during your time at UConn?

The defining moment was attending an information session for Best Buddies, a club that promotes friendship and social inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I joined, and ended up being president for the next three years. It changed my life. Best Buddies helped influence me to switch to a psychology major, and ultimately defined my career path.

Describe someone you’ve met here who has already impacted your future.

Getting assigned a random roommate is a terrifying thing, but sometimes you get extremely lucky. My freshman roommate and I were so well-suited. She was a pre-teaching, special education major, and I had never met anyone so in love with their major. Her dedication was infectious and played a significant role in my passion for the community of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She and I ran Best Buddies together for two years, and she’s still my closest friend on campus. We’re moving into an apartment together next year!

As a UConn IDEA Grant recipient, what project did you pursue?

My IDEA Grant was an exploration of the potential of alternative teaching through the arts. I assessed students, implemented an after-school program, and evaluated the use of art, music, and dance to teach fifth-grade math to students on Individualized Education Programs.

Where are you headed after graduation?

I will enter the Master’s/Sixth-Year Program in the Neag School of Education. I hope to work on counseling and assessment in a school system, and help children with emotional and educational adjustments to learn effectively.

What will you miss most about UConn?

Thankfully I’m not leaving yet! But I’ll miss living on campus. I’ll miss the excitement during March Madness. I’ll miss walking across the Oak Leaf or by the Jonathan statue every day. And probably more than anything, I’ll miss the discounted basketball tickets.