Reflecting on my college journey, I am filled with a symphony of emotions—gratitude,
pride, and nostalgia. Attending a university in the heart of Boston has been a
transformative experience, shaping me academically, personally, and socially. This period
has been one of growth, self-discovery, and invaluable lessons that have illuminated my
path forward, especially with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the
solitude, I cultivated the ACE pillars of self-advocacy and self-direction, which became my
anchors throughout my time at Suffolk University. Now, I can finally separate my identity
from the student role I have embraced for so long.
Academically, college has been both a crucible and a canvas, something I anticipated yet
still found surprising. As a psychology major with a sociology minor, I was continually
fascinated by the complexities of human behavior, social structures, and how individuals
interact with the world around them. The coursework pushed my limits, teaching me to
think critically and engage deeply with my field of study. There were moments of
exhaustion and late nights when my only companions were the glow of my laptop and the
hum of a quiet campus. These struggles made me more resilient, and my professors played
a vital role in helping me push past my limits and grow. My studies deepened my
understanding of people, enriching my academic experience, personal interactions, and
professional aspirations.

Beyond academics, my college years became a mosaic of personal growth and selfexploration. As a commuter student, I had to balance school, work, and personal
responsibilities while dealing with lengthy commutes. The absence of built-in dormitory
social connections made it challenging to find a sense of belonging. However, with
persistence, I sought out friends, events, and conversations that slowly transformed
unfamiliar spaces into ones I could call my own.
Pro tip: have a friend in a department different from yours and immerse yourself in their
community (figuratively, of course); it was in those spaces that I quickly found comfort
and excitement. Through this journey, I learned the importance of stepping beyond my
comfort zone and embracing discomfort as a catalyst for meaningful connections.
In the summer of my final year at Suffolk, I got an internship at Novartis—a
biopharmaceutical company—in the P&O department and Genesis Labs, which opened
new doors for me. There, I realized the profound impact of my studies—the delicate art of
understanding people, fostering growth, and shaping workplace culture. I deeply thank my
amazing supervisors Michael Chaffers and Alicia Evangelista as this experience expanded
my curiosity for human-centered careers and equipped me with the skills and confidence
to step into my professional future with conviction.
I am proud to be ACE’s first intern, working closely with my wonderful coach, Lorita. Our
relationship now extends beyond academics; we are engaged in work that is teaching me
and guiding me in the right direction. Unlike many of my peers, I will not be pursuing a
graduate program (for now). Instead, I plan to focus on self-care. I hope this decision
encourages others in similar positions to confront the fears and uncertainties
accompanying graduation. It is a privilege to have the support of ACE if I decide to
continue my education, a privilege we should all remember.
As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my journey, I do so with a heart full of
memories, a mind sharpened by challenges, and a spirit eager for new adventures. I am no
longer just a student; I am an adult, and I am deeply and eternally grateful.