Peter Heuer

Niagara University, NY

I knew I wanted to attend Niagara as an Education major since I was a
sophomore in High School. Niagara’s Education program has garnered and maintained the highest respect both nationally and internationally. Academically, there was no questioning my decision. My only fear was that as a commuter, I would miss out on the “college experience”. Niagara, however, has provided me an environment in which I have become both academically and socially involved. Through campus activities and my experience working with NU’s Radio Station and Theatre Department I have begun new experiences that continue to grow every day.
 

Adam Hare, Class of 2010

Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Hometown: Overland Park, KS

Creighton Students Union President and Biology Major

"The opportunities for research and hands-on lab experience are second to none at Creighton.  Because of these opportunities, I have been able to acquire the skills with the technology that is needed to land high level internships and was able to get a summer research internship in a neuroscience lab at the University of Kansas Medical Center.  The whole Creighton experience has been truly transformative for me, and it changed me as a person, not just as a scholar."

Kathleen DiMartino, Class of 2010

DePaul University - Chicago, IL

Hometown: Naperville, IL
Majors: French and International Studies

Kathleen says, “You will have a really unique college experience if you attend DePaul. Everything from the city environment to DePaul’s Vincentian values makes this university special.”

Service learning is “an integral part of the experience. Service learning stems from DePaul’s Vincentian values that encourage students to contribute back to Chicago and the greater world. As a result, DePaul offers a lot of opportunities to volunteer and to become socially responsible leaders. The Student Leadership Institute offers a number of workshops and programs to help students develop their leadership skills and service days are a great way to make a difference in the community.”
 

Gregory Morrison, Class of 2010

Salve Regina University - Newport, RI

Hometown: Albany, NY

Major: Cultural and Historic Preservation

Gregory came to Salve Regina because the University is one of a handful of colleges and universities nationwide to offer a bachelor's degree in his chosen major-cultural and historic preservation.  Since Greg's career aspirations include obtaining a master's degree and practicing preservation-based architecture, the opportunity to study in the living laboratories of Salve Regina and Newport added to the appeal.  What kept Greg here, however, was Salve Regina's tight-knit community. "The faculty are extremely attentive and you can always rely on finding someone you know, no matter where you are on campus.  It's amazing how willing people are to help you out."

Allyson George, Class of 2013

Notre Dame College - South Euclid, OH

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Major: Accounting

Originally from Columbus, Allyson decided to move to suburban South Euclid, OH, for the "homey feeling" at Notre Dame.  "NDC meets my needs as it challenges me academically and prepares me for the business world ahead," Allyson says.  "Here I get the personable feel with all of my professors; it's nice being more than just a number. Thanks to our many campus activities, I know a lot of people.  The College has become a second home for me."

Amy Gunderman, Class of 2011

John Carroll University - University Heights, OH

Hometown: Hillsboro, OH

Major: Biology

Amy came to JCU as part of the Arrupe Scholars Program, which emphasizes service learning and social justice issues.  Amy also is in the Honors Program, serves as a lector, is a Eucharistic minister, and is a second-year resident advisor.  She recently co-founded The Hope of Tomorrow, a mentoring program for high school students in conjunction with Cleveland Scholarship Programs.  Amy plans to go to medical school or to become a physician assistant, after which she would ike to serve in the International Medical Corps. 

Carrie Vandelac

College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University - Collegeville, MN

Hometown: Oakdale, MN

Major: Gender and Women's Studies with a Psychology minor

"I'm inspired by all of the opportunities at CSB/SJU. I chose CSB/SJU because I was looking for a liberal arts school where I would get individual attention from professors and grow in my leadership capabilities.  CSB/SJU was the perfect place for this.  I didn't know what path I wanted to take when I came to college, and now I'm well on my way with a major in gender and women's studies and I plan to attend graduate school for Student Affairs.  The education and personal development that I receive at CSB/SJU is incomparable to anywhere else."

Chrissy Aspara, Class of 2010

DePaul University - Chicago, IL

Hometown: Schiller Park, IL
Major: Elementary Education

Chrissy says the learning environment at DePaul is “perfect for me. I love that most of my professors know me by name and that they’re so accessible. I feel like professors genuinely care about the subjects they’re teaching and about whether students are grasping the content.”

Initially unsure about her major, she was inspired by instructor Siobhan O’Donoghue. “After watching the way Siobhan held classroom discussions, immersion activities and lesson plans, my dream to teach was reignited. I felt as though Siobhan helped me out of the scariness that comes with beginning college life and assumed a position in my life as a role-model and as a woman I look up to.”
 

Ailana L. Brown

Niagara University, NY

To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from Niagara. Now, looking back on how scared I was my freshman year, I laugh. Niagara is second home to me. On campus, I participate in many clubs and organizations.I have my own show on the school’s radio station, WNIA. I have been the photographer for MISA. I sing in the Alumni Choir. I’m a proud member of NU Alliance. I’m involved in C.A.R.E and New Student Orientation, and Executive Board, where I help organize activities for incoming Freshmen.

The people that I’ve met along the way have inspired me to chase my dreams and develop my sense of self. My journey at Niagara has been fulfilling and the most memorable experience one could ever hope for.
 

Gina D'Amico, Class of 2011

Emmanuel College - Boston, MA

Major: Psychology/Catholic Studies

"I especially like how the class sizes are small and interactive, offering each student a personalized education.  I was able to take a travel course that went to Rome for spring break and it was the most amazing and inspiring experience of my life.  I know that my time here at Emmanuel will prepare me not only for a future professionally, but personally as well. "

Kelley Wanzeck, Class of 2010

Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Hometown: Aurora, CO

Major: Biochemistry

"I came to Creighton because of the undergraduate access to the medical and professional schools, and research was something new and intriguing.  After two years of research, I plan to go to graduate school after my senior year here at Creighton and hopefully work for a pharmaceutical company or biotech company performing biomedical research.  It is giving me the opportunity to completely devote myself to research and academics.  Research is more than something I do at Creighton-it's my way of life."

Dominic Haik

College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University - Collegeville, MN

Hometown: Minneapolis, MN

Major: Political Science with a Spanish minor

"One of the best experiences I've had here is being part of the football team.  Not only is it fun to be part of a successful and nationally recognized program, but the network provided to me because of my opportunity to play football has been incredible.  I chose CSB/SJU because the great sense of community and the excellent alumnae/i network.  Both have exceeded my expectations.  I'm also amazed by the opportunities here.  I'm also on the varsity track teams, and a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the Society of Advanced Management, and Campus Ministry."

Andre Bobb, Class of 2010

DePaul University - Chicago, IL

Hometown: Fort Wayne, IN
Majors: Public Relations and Advertising

“Chicago has plenty of avenues to utilize a communications degree,” says Andre. “After I graduate, I anticipate being able to find a job, relevant to my degree, here in the city. If not, I know that attending DePaul in the city of Chicago has provided me with enough resources and contacts to make my transition out of the city very fluid.”

When he’s not in class, you’ll find Andre playing basketball at “The Ray,” the university’s state-of-the-art fitness and recreation center, or hopping an “L” train to explore Chicago’s restaurants, clubs, parks and cultural activities.

Jenna Bowman, Class of 2010

St. Catherine's University - St. Paul, MN

Hometown: Rochester, MN

Majors: Business and Sociology with minors in Sales and Theology

"I really believe that the all-women's experience at St. Kate's is unique.  It offers a range of opportunities-from women who have the same passion to learn as I do to the professors who bring energy and enthusiasm into the classroom. I studied abroad in Australia for a semester and Mexico for J-term.  The women's health issues course helped me to understand the search for justice in women's health.  I visited a rural Mexican village and saw how an international nonprofit delivered income-building approaches for women.  Using my sales skills, I was able to tell the story and to sell handmade items.  I want to earn a master's degree in public health, work in a job that makes a difference in the world, and hopefully one day run for public office."

Olivia Teixeira, Class of 2011

Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Hometown: Santa Clara, CA

Major: Nursing

"I love the fast pace of the nursing program.  It is just the kind of experience I was looking for.  Taking eighteen credit hours, being active on campus, including my student health aide job, and the thoughtful advising here have all really helped me learn to manage my time and my ability to maximize my efficiency and effectiveness."

MyLan Chhu, Class of 2010

Salve Regina University - Newport, RI

Hometown: Buzzards Bay, MA

Majors: Secondary Education and History

A double major in secondary education and history, MyLan feels that learning in today's classrooms should extend far beyond the subject matter.  "Learning should be fun," she says. "I owe my education to those who gave me the opportunity to learn and to those who continue to support me on this journey toward higher education. I would like to give back to the community that gave me so much by being an inspiration for others and a facilitator to their success." If MyLan isn't leading campus tours or bonding with her rugdy teammates both on and off the field, you might find her setting weightlifting records in the University's Sullivan Fitness Center.

Tiffany Vang

College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University - Collegeville, MN

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Major: Communication with a minor in Political Science

"I made the decision to attend CSB/SJU on my overnight visit-- I immediately fell in love. Besides the beautiful campuses, the people were warm and welcoming.  The social atmosphere here is diverse and I knew it would provide an amazing college experience.  In one of my classes, there was a requirement to do a service learning project.  I decided to work at Hands Across the World--a program that helps immigrants learn English and computer skills, and helps them adjust to their new life.  The people I met through this program deeply impacted me with their experiences and hard work."

Gabriel Giacometti

College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University - Collegeville, MN

Hometown: Quito, Ecuador

Majors: Engineering (dual-degree) and Art

"I picked CSB/SJU from a broad list of the best universities in the U.S. My main priorities were to attend a liberal arts school offering diversity, good academic studies, personal attention and a friendly community.  CSB/SJU offers all of these things and more.  I have been involved in every soccer intramural possible since I got here.  In my first year, I helped create The Latino Club.  I have attended many different conferences, leadership programs, art exhibitions, plays, concerts, and so many other events offered right on campus."

Lana Brand, Class of 2010 and 2012

St. Catherine's University - St. Paul, MN

Hometown: Faribault, MN

Major: Exercise and Sport Science and Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (dual-degree)

Lana is on track for St. Kate's unique six-year applied program in exercise science and doctor of physical therapy dual-degree program.  In order to achieve the 100 hours of clinical experience needed for admission to the DPT program, Lana interned at District One Hospital in Faribault, MN as a nurse's aide on a medical/surgical floor.  Lana has also built-up experience doing clinical work at the Institute of Athletic Medicine in Minneapolis and Rehab One in Faribault. "I think a big thing you learn is communication and being able to talk to patients and your fellow classmates with confidence.  The time you spend in the field before you're out on your own is really beneficial."

Mary Delaware, Class of 2010

St. Catherine's University - St. Paul, MN

Hometown: Kirksville, MO

Majors: Studio art with a graphic design concentration and print journalism

When Mary was working at a coffee shop in high school, a coworker suggested that she consider schools in Minnesota.  She looked at St. Kate's and was impressed with the financial aid offerings, plus it was a good distance away from home - not too far, but not too close. Mary spent a semester abroad in Scotland at the University of Stirling.  "I gained a much larger sense of independence being somewhere I knew no one before I was there.  I loved it."  About St. Kate's, Mary says, "The best thing you can do is to get yourself out there.  I didn't know anyone coming to St. Kate's.  Meet people and stick with it.  Join clubs.  That's the best way to make the most of resources here."

Geoff Redick

Niagara University, NY

Niagara’s Communications Studies program has given me a jumpstart into the professional world – even before graduation! As the News Director of NU’s campus radio station, WNIA Mix N’ More Radio, I was able to hone the writing skills I learned in class. Live, on-the-air , experience forced me to quickly learn the basics of broadcasting. Now, that real-time experience has led me to a job as a Reporter & Anchor at a professional radio station in my hometown! In the midst of an employment crisis, the first-class training I receive at NU has never proven to be more valuable than now.
 

Joe Marcus, Class of 2011

DePaul University - Chicago, IL

Hometown: Buffalo Grove, IL
Majors: Sound Recording Technology and Physics

Joe chose DePaul because he wanted to understand both the art of music and the sciences that apply to music. “DePaul is one of the only music schools that I could find where the recording majors are treated like performance majors for their first two years. At other music schools, the recording majors do not get the same musical training that the recording majors here do. “

“It is incredibly easy to see live music in Chicago and at DePaul, and I try to take full advantage. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra costs only $10 for students, there are always concerts at the School of Music, and DePaul is just down the street from numerous local concert venues.”
 

Sarah Soldano, Class of 2010

Emmanuel College - Boston, MA

Major: English Writing and Literature with a minor in Graphic Design

"As an Emmanuel student, I have had special opportunities to develop my interests into resume-building experiences.  I was lucky enough to become involved with the College's literary magazine, Bang! as a freshman, rising to the ranks of president the following year.  As a graphic design minor, I also served a mini-internship with the College's Office of Marketing Communications for class credit, which has helped me discover an additional talent and love for design."

Kendra Sears-Marshall, Class of 2008

Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Hometown: Des Moines, IA

Majors: Marketing and Management

"My Nike Inc. internship position as Assistant Product Line Manager included creating and presenting a team marketing campaign to Phil Knight (our team won!), attending international buyer meetings, and my personal project: reinventing the women's hiking shoe (which went to market last spring). Creighton's College of Business ensured that I was prepared for my future and presented opportunities like my internship that you can't find anywhere else.  It was an amazing experience...and I even got paid for it!"

Sean Gallitz, Class of 2009

Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Hometown: Milwaukee, WI

Major: Political Science

"I've always loved politics, and was able to obtain a Capitol Hill internship because of my Creighton experiences.  I lived in Washington D.C. three blocks from the Capitol, with students from around the country.  I was lucky enough to work with Tim Russert on Meet the Press, and during the 2008 Presidential Primaries, I was looking at politics through a media lens.  I did research for the show, punched delegate numbers, did exit polling and blogged for MSNBC.  These experiences were invaluable for graduate school at the University of Liverpool, where I study Politics in the Media."

Michael Townsend, Class of 2010

Emmanuel College - Boston, MA

Major: Management

"Coming from a small town in Virginia, I was originally worried that attending college in a city would be a huge change.  But there was something about Emmanuel that just made me feel at ease.  Playing on the Saints' volleyball team has been an important part of my college experience.  It's been a great opportunity to be a three-year captain of a program that has grown so much in four years.  To be able to say we capped off my senior season with a national ranking and program record in winds make me truly proud of how far we've come."

Victoria A. Chavez

Notre Dame de Namur University - Belmont, CA

What can I say about NDNU? For the past five years, Notre Dame has been my home. Since coming to NDNU, I have graduated with a BA in Liberal Studies and a double minor in Theatre and Religious studies. I have felt such a connection with the community on this campus that I am currently working on my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I have learned from the professors at NDNU about the type of educator that I aspire and hope to be. In order to make an effective change in someone’s life, a teacher needs to connect with students on an emotional level. Certain professors on campus have taken an interest in my growth in education and in life. I can go up to my professors and ask them about anything and trust that they will guide me in the right direction. I truly feel that if there is anything that I need on the NDNU campus, there is someone there to assist me until I feel completely satisfied. That is exactly what I wanted out of my college experience; a community feel. The experiences and connections that I have made at NDNU have helped me grow into the person I am today. I am confident that I will go far with the education that I have received here at NDNU. It is like what Sister Julie Billiart once said, “Teach them what they need to know for life.” I feel that Notre Dame has done this for me and I hope that I can pass this onto the students that I will teach in the future.
 

Kelly Wante, Class of 2010

Providence College – Providence, RI

Major: Psychology

Kelly knew coming out of high school that she wanted to attend an academically strong college with a proven track record for helping its graduates land great jobs and get into excellent graduate schools. She also liked the idea of attending college in a city where she would have a lot of opportunities for internships. Kelly, a psychology major, found all that she was looking for at Providence College.

A Massachusetts native, Kelly came into Providence interested in English, political science, and psychology. After a couple of outstanding classes, Kelly declared psychology as her major and is specifically interested in neuropsychology. In her time at Providence, Kelly completed an internship at the Neurodevelopmental Center of Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island.

The internship led to a paid research assistantship at the center, primarily assisting with background research. The summer before her senior year, she did another internship—this time with Dr. Christopher Bloom, assistant professor of psychology and director of the Providence College Affective Neuroscience lab. “His focus is on behavioral neuroscience, which is something I’ve always wanted to study,” Kelly says, “I pushed myself here at Providence.” Kelly’s preparation, in the lab, her research and internship, were valuable opportunities that led to her acceptance to graduate programs.
 

Zachary Pratt

Saint Michael’s College - Burlington, VT

Hometown – Ticonderoga, NY
Major/Minor – Computer Science Major, Mathematics Minor

The support system and the community at Saint Michael’s College will only set you up for success. My computer science professors have all supported me and been interested in my choice to go to law school. I was able to e-mail a journalism professor who graduated from law school, and she took me under her wing and helped me with every part of the process beginning my sophomore year. I had no connection to the Journalism department, yet this professor mentored me as if I were a member. I also had opportunities to take upper-level classes in political science, journalism, and business that dealt with law.