Q: How has Brockport shaped your career trajectories?
A: Brockport has prepared me well for whatever I choose to pursue next.
The faculty are deeply committed to student success, as shown by Dr. Heidi Rademacher in Sociology, who has been a consistent source of support throughout my time at Brockport.
Additionally, the SUNY Washington Internship Program is an outstanding opportunity offered by the University. With guidance from Dr. Robert Powell and Casey Cappelletti, I secured a 10-week internship at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
Q: What’s a moment from the past year you’re most proud of?
A: Conducting interviews for my thesis on Rochester’s Policy Accountability Board (PAB), I worked in collaboration with PAB Executive Director Dr. Lesli Myers-Small to speak with various staff and board members. These interviews focused on the current functioning of the PAB and their plans to strengthen the organization moving forward. My paper includes an analysis of the interview findings, an assessment of the board’s overall effectiveness, and recommendations for future improvements.
Q: Who made your Brockport experience better this year?
A: The list is long!
I’m especially grateful for the friends I now call family — McKenna, Megan, Eva, Colin, and Austin. Whether it was having someone to confide in or simply share a laugh with, they’ve made a lasting impact on my time here and will always hold a place in my heart.
My experience also wouldn’t be complete without the support of faculty members like Dr. Jason Dauenhauer, Dr. Heidi Rademacher, Dr. Robert Powell, and Dr. Kristin Heffernan, along with my family in Rochester. I’m incredibly grateful to have such a strong support system to return to after graduation.
Q: Lessons from this year:
A: To slow down and enjoy the ride. I’ve always been focused on the ‘next thing.’ But after completing my Honors Thesis, receiving the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, and graduating early, I realized it’s okay to pause and take it all in.
This past semester, I’ve been working full-time while also taking on a research internship. It might sound like a lot, but it’s given me something I didn’t expect — time. Time to reconnect with the things I genuinely enjoy.
More importantly, it helped me recognize that I don’t want to rush into grad school or a full-time career unless I’m truly certain about that path. And right now, I’m not — and that’s okay
Q: Why do you love Brockport?
A: Brockport was an unexpected detour in my journey. In high school, I overlooked SUNY schools and dismissed Brockport for being too close to home.
However, Brockport brought me more opportunity than I ever could have imagined. I’m leaving with deep, meaningful connections with faculty who are truly invested in my success, along with a polished résumé built from the opportunities and awards I earned here.
I always felt supported and celebrated by the community in everything I pursued.