Preferred pronouns: She/Her
Major/Concentration: Psychology, Music
Hometown: Athol, MA
What made you choose Salem State, and what is the one thing you think a prospective student should know about our campus community?
I chose Salem State because of its location and affordability. Salem State is a beautiful campus full of people from different backgrounds. The city of Salem itself is iconic because of its rich history. Students should know that they are free to be their authentic selves at Salem State. They are bound to receive support and make friends who are different and similar to them.
What have you enjoyed most about your experience living on campus?
I have enjoyed the relationships I have made. I have met so many people and established so many connections that will last a lifetime. In this process I have also become more confident in myself, grown to love myself more and accept nothing less than kindness from others.
What are you involved in on campus? (Student groups, clubs, organizations, jobs, internships, honors, or athletic affiliations)
I have worked with residence life for three years. I started out as a resident assistant during my sophomore year in Peabody Hall. I then went to Forten Hall (formerly Viking Hall) as a resident assistant during my junior year. I am now serving as the senior resident assistant in Bowditch Hall. I play the flute in the University Band.
Can you describe the educational value and affordability you’ve experienced at Salem State University? How has the university supported your academic journey regarding quality and accessibility?
The affordability made it possible for me to pay for all four years without assistance from my parents. I can look back and say that I put myself through school. Not many people can say they have that level of independence. I am very proud of myself for being able to accomplish that.
Could you discuss the relationships you’ve developed with faculty members at Salem State and how these relationships have influenced your learning and personal growth?
I have had the opportunity to learn from the most gifted and humble individuals. Especially in the music department. I was working with faculty who have played with the Boston Pops and John Williams, written and produced albums, and won multiple awards for their talents. I didn't know about it until years into my education here. They are also the most kind and supportive when it comes to struggling in class or in their personal life. I am so grateful for all the faculty I have had the honor of working with.
Salem State emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Can you share any memorable experiences where you’ve applied classroom knowledge in real-world settings through projects?
I would say I have learned to be less judgmental and hold fewer biases. In psychology, therapists must go into sessions with zero biases to best support a client. I have been more accepting of individuals who are different from me. It is very hard and takes a lot of time, but I continue to break down the biases as time goes on.
What have you accomplished during your time at Salem that you are most proud of?
I won a Creativity Award for Music, the highest award you can receive in the Arts at Salem State. I was chosen by the music department faculty. I was so shocked; never in a million years did I think I was going to get it. The ceremony is in May!
In what ways has Salem State demonstrated its commitment to your success, both academically and personally? Can you share any specific instances where the university has gone above and beyond to support you?
I would say when I got COVID-19 my sophomore year. It was the last week of classes, and I was so stressed because I had final assignments, projects, performances, exams, and work. All my professors and my boss at the time gave me so much grace. I was in quarantine for 10 days, and they all reached out to me to help me in any way they could to help me finish out the semester. I only had to take one incomplete, and my professors worked with me to make it up. I was so grateful.
As you near graduation, how do you feel Salem State has prepared you for your future career? What resources or opportunities have been particularly valuable in this regard?
Salem State has prepared me to apply to graduate programs, learn skills that prepare me to secure a job in the future, and prepare elements to go into a job interview.
What are your post-graduation plans, and how do you believe your time at Salem State has equipped you for success in pursuing them?
I hope to continue to a graduate program to receive my mental health counseling license and teach music or do music therapy.