Congratulations to the class of 2025! Read this year's senior spotlights here.
Major: Psychology
Minor: Biology
Hometown: Hampton, NH
Campus Involvement: Commonwealth Honors Program Advisory Committee; Commonwealth Honors Program Advisory Council
Why did you choose Salem State, and what’s one thing a prospective student should know about the campus community?
I chose Salem State for its affordability and location. It’s also one of the few schools in the Massachusetts system that offers a BS in psychology. Prospective students should know there are so many opportunities—you just have to look for them.
Once you got to campus, what made you say, "This is the place for me?"
The welcoming community of the honors program made me feel like I belonged. It offered support, opportunities and connections. I felt accepted, and I’d encourage anyone who qualifies to check it out.
What made you choose your major?
Before enrolling at Salem State, I chose my major as I transferred from community college. I continued pursuing psychology and added a minor in biology.
Do you live on campus or commute?
I commute, but I stay engaged by keeping up with emails and looking for events hosted by different groups. The Honors program runs several fun events each year, and other clubs like the Greenhouse and chemistry clubs host great programming too.
How have you grown as a person during your college experience?
I’ve learned a lot about myself and my future goals. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that opportunities don’t just come to you—you have to seek them out and carve your own path. That mindset has become a core takeaway for me.
Can you describe a challenge you overcame at Salem State?
Because my parents don’t qualify for federal aid, I had to navigate college with limited financial support. I worked nights, commuted in an economy car, and searched for every scholarship and grant I could qualify for. Salem State made that journey more attainable than other options.
Have any faculty relationships influenced your learning or personal growth?
Absolutely. My professors have been the most valuable part of my experience. Professor Piñeros-Shields was a significant influence on my thesis project and inspired me through our directed study; his class made me rethink my major in my final semester. Professor Zeren, Professor Kelly, Professor Krugman, and Professor Miller took a genuine interest in my questions and passions, even when they went beyond the day's lesson. I plan to keep in touch with several of them after graduation because they have more to teach, and I value their wisdom on both academic and personal levels.
How has Salem State supported your academic journey in terms of value and accessibility?
As a commuting student paying out of pocket, affordability was crucial. Salem State gave me access to a quality education without the financial burden. I was able to transfer from community college and still minimize debt through research, outreach and financial support.
Can you share a hands-on learning experience you’ve had?
One of my favorite hands-on experiences was in my honors botany class. We had to identify and collect 10–12 plants, and I focused on edible plants in my backyard. I learned more about plants in 13 weeks than in my entire life. The project taught us how to form hypotheses, make observations, and explore what we were genuinely curious about. It was life-changing for many of us.
What are your post-graduation plans, and how has Salem State prepared you?
After graduation, I’m taking time to reflect on my future. I may start a business or explore ways to create change in my personal life and community. Eventually, I’d love to get involved in politics and civic engagement—maybe even run for office one day. Salem State gave me the tools and confidence to think seriously about those possibilities.