Why did you choose Daemen College?

When I was applying to colleges, I knew that I wanted to attend a school that was unique and different. After attending a high school where nearly 2,500 kids packed the hallways, I wanted a small environment where I would be able to focus and pursue my chosen career in the best way possible. Daemen was local in terms of geography, small in terms of the student to professor ratio, and truly made a great first impression in terms of the academic programs and the friendliness of the staff.  

Why did you choose your present major?

Choosing a major was one of the most difficult decisions I had to make in regards to my college education. I completed an internship at a local occupational therapy clinic the summer between my junior and senior year of high school. At that time, OT was going to be my chosen major. However, after analyzing the time spent at the internship, I realized that OT wasn't exactly for me. While it was a rewarding field to go into, I couldn't find any passion within me to pursue that career. Growing up, I had always played "teacher" in my bedroom with stuffed animals set up as the students and attendance charts made on Microsoft Word. While it was simply just for fun at that age, I can't remember a time when I didn't have fun setting up my bedroom like a classroom and pretending to teach. The passion for teaching others had been instilled in me at a young age and constantly being surrounded by kids through volunteering opportunities played a large role in my decision to become an educator.

Please describe the impact Daemen faculty, staff and advisors have had on you.

Daemen's faculty and staff are second to none. With small class sizes and a strong sense of community throughout the entire campus, the faculty and staff truly care about your success and understanding of what you are learning. The advisors guide you through difficulties and are more than willing to lend a helping hand. It is not intimidating to speak to professors or other faculty because they are always willing to assist you.

What do you like best about Daemen?

The thing that I like best about Daemen is that it is a small school compared to others within the Buffalo area. With the buildings being separated by a five-minute walk or less, the journey into school and from class to class is never one to dread. The class sizes are perfect and registering for classes is simple.

What is your favorite campus hangout? Why?

My absolute favorite campus hangout is the bridge area on the second floor of the RIC (Research and Information Commons). The booths are extremely comfortable, it's very open and bright, and I don't feel secluded from what is going on around me.  It's also a great spot to search for friends in the library below and to see what's going on throughout the other floors in the RIC.

What are your plans after graduation?

Currently, I am in the process of researching several different graduate programs within the Buffalo area. I am hoping to pursue a Master's Degree in either Reading Literacy or Special Education alongside subbing throughout local districts.