Phillip

Phillip Ceccarelli

Hometown: Hamburg, NY

Major: Mathematics- Adolescence Special Education 7-12

Graduation Year: 2024

Why did you choose Daemen University?

I chose Daemen because when I visited for the first time it felt like home. I knew that I did not want to be lost in the crowds of students at a big school, Daemen offered me a classroom environment where I could thrive and show my knowledge. Daemen has allowed me grow academically, athletically, and, socially by providing opportunities for me to compete at the D2 level and participating in local schools beginning in freshman year.

Why did you choose your present major?

My parents are teachers and they would come home with the best stories about their students and share them with me and my brothers. When my Dad retired the students made him a cake and a very touching card.  Witnessing the fulfilling lives my parents have had and the impact they have had on on their students is what inspired me to become a teacher.

Please briefly describe your Scholar's Day. 

Scholars day was when I really knew I wanted to make Daemen my home for the next 4 years.  The scholars were welcoming and everyone seemed to know everyone else and I really enjoyed that. My parents were also impressed and my mom told me that day that we will do what it takes to get me here at Daemen.

Please describe your academic experience at Daemen.

Daemen's education is incredibly immersive. The small class sizes allow you to participate everyday in class. Daemen also stresses getting real life experiences in addition to classes.  For example, I started visiting classrooms around Buffalo starting my freshman year.

What do you like best about Daemen?

I like that I am a person and not just a number. The workers know your name and you cant walk down the halls without knowing someone and saying hi.

What clubs or organizations have you been a part of here at Daemen University? What kinds of things do they do? 

Mens track and Field and Cross Country, academic coaching, Aftermath (math tutoring club), athletic mentor (help freshmen athletes assimilate to college life), Athletes in Action (Faith based athlete service group), CAUSE (teaching sports to individuals with special needs).

Please describe any internship, study abroad, service learning or academic experience? 

Student Teaching: Transit Middle school - 7th grade math
Student Teaching : Frontier High School - Algebra II, Geometry, Statistics
Practicum: Cardinal O'Hara Charter School - Calculus, Algebra I

Do you have a job or jobs on campus? Please provide a brief description. 

Math Lab Tutor: I work in the mathlab which is a room in Duns Scotus that is open 9-5 on weekdays for anyone to get free math tutoring.

What is your favorite spot to stop by in town? 

Spot coffee or Panera 

What piece of advice would you give to prospective students?

Pick a school that suits your goals and desires. The best way to see which school fits you personally is to visit the school while it is in session. This way you can see how the students interact, how busy the school is , and what activities go on.