Bendy Al Zaatini came to UConn Waterbury as an undecided student, not sure yet of what her passion would be. Four years later, the Brass City native leaves as an Allied Health Sciences graduate, Associated Student Government president, and participant in a dizzying array and variety of clubs, centers, and mentor programs. And as she sets off for the next chapter in life, she’ll bring with her not only the skills and academic achievement she acquired from UConn, but fond memories of sunny days spent in the UConn Waterbury courtyard.

Why did you choose UConn?
At first, UConn drew me in because of its locality. Throughout the chaos of the pandemic, I was positive that staying at home while simultaneously building my community at the UConn Waterbury campus would be the right way to start my journey as an undergraduate student at the prestigious school. Coming in as an undecided student, I knew that I would be able to find my major and passion by being a student at UConn. 

What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
I am an Allied Health Sciences major, and I was drawn to it because of the different career opportunities that fall under this major. Many health graduate programs require classes that are already fulfilled by the Allied Health Sciences major requirements.

Did you have a favorite professor or class?
My favorite professor is Dr. Aviana Rosen, with whom I took International Health, Research Methods in Allied Health, Writing in Allied Health Research, and U.S. Healthcare System and Professional Practice. Dr. Rosen is one of the kindest people I have ever met, and her students can all agree that she was an exceptional addition to our campus. She brought life to this campus through her genuine efforts and that has encouraged more students to major in Allied Health Sciences.

What activities were you involved in as a student?
I am currently the president of the Associated Student Government and am involved in all events happening around campus. I am also a Supplemental Instruction Leader at the Academic Achievement Center. I am a UConn Connects mentor, a “The Major Experience” mentor, Orientation Leader, a student senator for the University Senate Executive Committee, member of the Student Leaders committee, member of the Collegiate Health Services Corps, and an Allied Health Ambassador.

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
I was surprised by the number of resources that are available to students. There is always help when needed and many different pathways to achieve success. There is also an abundance of ways to be involved on campus and have an active lifestyle outside of the classroom.

What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
My plan is to receive my second bachelor’s degree through CEIN, the accelerated nursing program with UConn, starting January 2026.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn has prepared me in many ways for a successful future. One of the main ways is how it enhanced my leadership, communication, and professional skills. These are skills that will be used for a lifetime, and having the opportunity to carry different responsibilities at the University has prepared me for a successful future in the professional world.

Any advice for incoming students?
Get as involved as your schedule permits. Stay busy, make your presence known, and make sure that everything you are involved in benefits you in different ways. Throughout your many involvements, never forget that you are a student first and prioritize your grades above all else. Being a well-rounded individual means being able to balance these different aspects of the undergraduate journey, so make sure to keep yourself in check to maintain that balance.

What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
Build a community around you. There is nothing more satisfying than knowing that you are part of a successful group of people and know what your role is in the community. It could be through a club, a group of dedicated classmates, on-campus employment, or anything in between. Having a community keeps you excited to come for more.

What will always make you think of UConn?
Being outdoors, sitting on the grass and reading a book while surrounded by people playing music, volleyball, and listening to the sound of a fountain (UConn Waterbury’s water sculpture) will always bring me back to the warm courtyard days of UConn.