Why did you initially decide to become a Peacock?
Since I started my education, my family has always instilled in me the importance of being in a Jesuit, Catholic institution because their vision is not only to make you a good professional, but to make you a better person as well. I personally like small schools, where you can feel a sense of community, care, and support. As a student, I would like my professors to know who I am and not just a grade in their book.
When it was time for me to choose a college, Saint Peter’s had everything I was looking for. It gave me the opportunity to continue my education in a Jesuit, Catholic institution while also being part of a smaller community where I could feel welcome, supported, and connected to the people around me. I felt that Saint Peter’s was a place where I could not only prepare for my future career, but also grow as a person.
What is your major at SPU? What else are you involved in on campus?
I am currently pursuing a double major in accounting and economics. I serve as treasurer of my class (Class of 2027) in the Student Government Association. In both the Economics & Finance Association and the Accounting Society, I serve as vice president. This year, I also serve as a portfolio manager for the Student Managed Investment Fund, which works in partnership with Lord Abbett & Co.
I am part of the Equal Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program, which has been a real blessing throughout this journey. Lastly, and more interestingly, I am part of the work-study program, having worked in the Office of the President since my freshman year.
What is it like seeing the day-to-day activity in the Office of the President and what do your responsibilities entail?
Being part of the President’s Office is such a privilege. My day-to-day activities involve helping the staff with whatever they may need – whether that is reviewing documents, keeping the office organized, answering calls, or helping organize meetings.
One of the most interesting parts has been helping with the Board of Trustees meetings. Before working in the President’s Office, I had no idea what a trustee was or even what they did for the university, but my perspective has completely changed. Working there has allowed me to see the commitment that the administration, staff, and trustees have to Saint Peter’s, especially when it comes to improving the university and creating a better place for students. These are people and efforts that you do not usually get to see as part of a regular class schedule. Personally, I had no idea how many people are involved or how much goes into keeping a university running.
How do you define success for yourself and how do you think your education at Saint Peter’s plays into that definition?
Success for me goes beyond material things. Of course, having a successful career, financial stability, and accomplishing goals matter as well, but I don’t think those things alone define success. For me, success is also about fulfilling my purpose, helping other people, enjoying meaningful relationships, and having peace of mind. I believe that true success is being proud of what you have accomplished while also being happy with the person you have become.
Saint Peter’s has played an important role in shaping that definition for me. As a recipient of a scholarship, I have experienced firsthand how someone giving back to their community can create an opportunity for another person. Sometimes the impact we have on someone else can be as simple as a smile, or as meaningful as allowing them to earn a college degree and change their future. Through my different clubs, my professors, advisors, and the friendships I have made, I have also learned the importance of community and having people who support and believe in you. One day, I hope to give back in the same way others have given to me.
Which of the Jesuit principles (finding God in all things, people for and with others, cura personalis, faith and justice, magis, and -for the greater glory of God) do you identify with most?
The Jesuit principle that I identify with the most is cura personalis, or “caring for the whole person.” I truly believe that life is not only about classes, working 24/7, or even material things. Who you are as a person matters much more than many people may think. Your happiness, your mental and physical health, your faith, and many other aspects of who you are matter as well. To me, cura personalis is a complement to our lives, reminding us to take care of the person we become along the way.
What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?
My advice for any new students at Saint Peter’s is to trust in yourself. Everything is going to be okay. Get involved on campus, make new friends, go to events, study hard, laugh, and enjoy every moment. These years are for discovering who you are and becoming the best version of yourself, so try new things and embrace new experiences. Even if everything is not perfect, you will learn something about yourself that you did not know before.
Do not let mistakes or difficult circumstances overshadow all the hard work you have done so far. We are here for a bigger purpose: to build the future we have dreamed of, to become the people we want to be, and to make a difference in the world.
Be proud to be a Peacock.