Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2023 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, English Education
Hometown: Stratford, Connecticut

Why did you choose UConn?
Since I was a child, UConn was one of my top choices for school. My dad attended UConn as an English major and played football, so growing up I was always taken to campus to visit and go on tours. There is nothing that compares to the UConn pride we have as a family. I applied to just three schools, and I knew regardless of the decisions, that I would find my forever home here at UConn.

What’s your major and why did you choose it?
My major is secondary English education. I have always admired school, being in the classroom, and chasing any opportunity that I had to learn more about literature and the world around me. I have always enjoyed reading and writing. English class was my favorite part of every day. I always knew I wanted to teach. This decision stems from the wonderful experiences I have had both socially and professionally in my academic career, but also the need for more educators of color in the teaching profession. Content and representation in the classroom are extremely important to a child’s academic experience.

What are your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation include pursuing my master’s degree since I am a part of the Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s program here at the Neag School. I am very blessed to say that I was accepted to study abroad in London during the Fall 2023 semester, which has always been a dream of mine! Therefore, post-graduation, I will be studying English and the English School System in one of the most diverse cities in the world!

What activities were you involved with as a student?
During my last four years here at UConn, I was involved with many academic groups and clubs such as UConn Future Educators, Leadership in Diversity, and a Women of Color Writing Group. However, my largest commitment aside from my academics, was joining the student organization, HuskyTHON, as a freshman. If you are unfamiliar with HuskyTHON, it is an entirely student-led organization that raises money for Connecticut Children’s all year long. I have been a part of HuskyTHON since 2019 and was fortunate to serve my fourth and final year on the Management Team as the Co-Director of Dancer Relations for HuskyTHON 2023. It was truly one of the best decisions of my life.

“UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in life by providing myself and many others with a strong support system, a network of contacts and opportunities, and offering a range of intriguing courses.” — Saraya Lewis

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in life by providing myself and many others with a strong support system, a network of contacts and opportunities, and offering a range of intriguing courses. There is always someone to speak to or connect with here at UConn, especially within the Neag School of Education. Some of the best courses I have taken include a Multicultural Education class; African American Literature; Young Adult Literature; and Race, Gender, and U.S. Health Care. I am extremely thankful for the conversations and knowledge that was produced during each of these classes.

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
UConn will become “small” very fast! You will see the same students, professors, and classmates multiple times during the week. It is a large campus at first, but you become accustomed to certain routes which will have you running into your friends all the time!

Any advice for incoming first-year students?
Please get involved as much as possible outside of your courses and your major. It is so important to branch out and become a part of new experiences that may have never interested you previously. My favorite quote is “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” and I believe that applies whole-heartedly to first-year students. Never be afraid to reach out if you need anything at school. Make the most of your experience and find the answers to your questions.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?
Every student must attend a UConn basketball and football game and should probably end the evening with ice cream from the Dairy Bar! Make sure to visit Horsebarn Hill and attend UCONNIC at least once. Spend plenty of time in the Student Union and the Lawn as there is always, always something going on. You will most likely run into Jonathan, Tildy, and Carsen, our furry friends on campus 24/7. Do not forget to visit the UConn Bookstore!

Who was your favorite professor and why?
I have been fortunate enough to have had many amazing professors. I cannot pick one as each of the professors in mind have taught completely different, but wonderful courses. I have had a wide range of English, Neag, and elective professors that each had something special about their class and contributed to my time here at UConn!

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?
Attending as many sporting events as possible! The student body and fanbase here at UConn is magical and incomparable to most. Husky pride is a forever thing!