“I have been exposed to so many different cultures and people while never stepping foot off-campus. ”
Bahamas
Q&A with Azia
Name: Azia McKenzie
Major: Biology
Hometown: Nassau, Bahamas
How did you find Caldwell University?
I found Caldwell during a visit to the campus on a college trip during my junior year of high school.
Favorite class at Caldwell University?
My favorite class is either 3D Design or Histology.
Favorite spot on Caldwell University’s campus?
My favorite spot is the Newman Center courtyard at the beginning of fall.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
I have been exposed to so many different cultures and people while never stepping foot off-campus.
Activities you have enjoyed at Caldwell
I love participating in Caldwell Service Day as well as the Club Fair at the beginning of every fall semester.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
I tell everyone that choosing Caldwell was one of the best choices I have ever made. I am a part of a community that continues to show me that they care about me.
Plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will go on to attend medical school.
Factoid or fun fact about your life in your home country
My favorite time of year is Christmas due to the celebration that happens around that time. Around 8 p.m. everyone starts to leave their day events in preparation for Junkanoo which is a celebration that dates back to slavery. Modern-day Junkanoo starts at 11 p.m. on Christmas and goes until 10 a.m. on Boxing Day (December 26 ). Varying Junkanoo groups rush and showcase their floats and costumes that they have spent all year preparing, hoping to win the best overall Junkanoo group. During this time of year, it brings all of the Bahamian public together with one common cause to celebrate Bahamian culture and what it means to be Bahamian. Q
Paiton Knowles
Class of 2020, Sport Management
Bahamas
“I chose Caldwell because of track and field and cross country! I also liked that it was a small campus that offers a more personal connection with professors and it is also easy to get around the campus. “
Alyssa Shams Orchi
Bangladesh
Class of 2021, Biology(Pre-Medicine)
“I chose Caldwell University because the people here are warm and welcoming and open to diverse cultures and traditions. They all make me feel like I am at home even though “Home” is thousands of miles away.”
Ghana
Roland Otuo-Acheampong
Class of 2022, Computer Science & Mathematics
“My favorite moment at Caldwell was the very first time I stepped foot on campus. I saw myself in an extremely friendly atmosphere and welcoming place where everyone gets along and where students are willing to help each other. I felt directly put in the middle of a diverse and vibrant campus life. At Caldwell, I know I am not just a ‘face in the crowd’, Professors know me by name due to the close-knit nature of the campus.”
Q&A with Roland
Name: Roland Otuo-Acheampong ‘22
Majors: Computer Science, Mathematics
Home country: Ghana
How did you find Caldwell University?
I found out about Caldwell through my brother who had graduated in 2017. He was very involved in campus activities and hearing him talk about his experiences overseas was the window through which I saw Caldwell until I enrolled. The journey has been fulfilling so far.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
For me, Caldwell has been the ideal place to satisfy my social and academic pursuits. I have benefited a lot from the strong sense of community at Caldwell that connects students of all backgrounds and the staff. The staff are thoroughly supportive and will go out of their way to assist their students inside and outside the classroom. At Caldwell, I know I am not just a ‘face in the crowd’. Professors know me by name due to the close-knit nature of the campus. I also relish the many inviting extracurricular activities for students and the resources that are available for personal growth. With the liberal arts education, I feel prepared for a variety of career paths and interests.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
Whenever I talk about Caldwell to others, I never cease to recount the very first time I stepped foot on campus. I experienced an extremely friendly atmosphere and welcoming place where everyone gets along and where students are willing to help each other. A home away from home indeed. I felt I was put directly in the middle of diverse and vibrant campus life.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
The best life lessons are learned during hard times when life takes us in a different direction. I have learned not to take anything for granted as I’ve become more aware of everything that has been taken away from us during the pandemic. The world is separating itself from a lot of things once considered normal. Hugging a friend is no longer a luxury that can be afforded now and it’s considered a death wish. Opportunities that once were taken for granted now seem a very costly undertaking. However, the earth will continue to spin and hopefully, things will get better. No condition is permanent. Eventually, the earth will heal and we will bounce back to life with a strength that is unparalleled in history. Until then, I will strengthen what remains and not take anything for granted.
Plans after graduation?
After achieving the milestone of obtaining a degree in computer science and mathematics at Caldwell, I see myself pursuing a career in software development— as a full-stack developer to be precise.
Factoids or fun facts about you and your country
I am very good at drawing and literally, everyone in my family enjoys playing soccer.
Ghana is a multilingual country with over 70 ethnic groups and 70 major annual traditional festivals. It was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence. Kente cloth originated from Ghana. Children are named based on their day of birth.
Tia Williams
Trinidad and Tobago
Class of 2023, Psychology
“My favorite spot on Caldwell University’s campus is the red room. Everyone who’s been in there understands why it’s called that (everything is red). There I get to meet up with my friends to hang out and study. It’s also a great place for commuters like myself because it’s a place where you can be in between classes.”
Q&A with Tia
Name- Tia Williams ’23
Major- Psychology with minors in English and Sociology
Hometown- San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago
How did you find Caldwell University?
I went to a college fair where there were representatives from universities from both Canada and the U.S. present. During that fair, I ended up at the Caldwell University booth where I met Caldwell’s current Director of Admissions, Jan Marco Jiras. He told me all about his experiences as a former international student. That sold me on a university that I did not know of before the college fair.
Favorite class at Caldwell University?
If I have to choose, it’s any class taught by Dr. Mary Lindroth. She’s an English professor here who really made me fall in love with literature all over again. From Shakespeare to critical reading, she influenced me to the point where I’m pursuing a minor in English.
Favorite spot on Caldwell University’s campus?
My favorite spot on Caldwell University’s campus is the red room. Everyone who’s been in there understands why it’s called that (everything is red). There I get to meet up with my friends to hang out and study. It’s also a great place for commuters like myself because it’s a place where you can be in between classes.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
I can answer this question in two ways. One resource that was most beneficial to me was the Writing Center where professionals review your papers for free. It’s really convenient and the services there have assisted me greatly because it’s always good to have a second or third person to read your papers. However, in general, the community was the most beneficial because it gave me a home away from home and helped me develop confidence in myself and my skills.
India
Shanan Choondassery
Class of 2022, CIS-IT
“I love being here as part of the diverse community they have, which helps me to understand different people’s cultures and interests. Caldwell celebrates many cultural events based on different countries which are very interesting. Finally, the classes are small, which allows you to get to know your professors and them to get to know you as a person.”
Q&A with Shanan
Name – Shanan Babu Choondassery ‘22
Major – Computer Information Systems and Public Health Education
Hometown – Kerala, India
How did you find Caldwell University?
After my high school in India, I was planning to do studies abroad and I came across many colleges in many countries. That’s when I found Caldwell University through my uncle, who is a professor here in CU in the Theology department. I searched about CU and all the reviews and everything was so pleasing and I decided to apply. The staff here explained every single detail thoroughly and then it became easier to go forward with the application process.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
The scholarship provided by CU is unbelievable. As I said, I applied to many colleges in many countries as well as in many states in the U.S. but the scholarship that CU offered for me was something that I didn’t expect and it is really beneficial for international students like me. Also, the university provides job and internships fairs to students so it becomes easier to get connected with the companies and persons.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
I always encourage people here as well as in India to join Caldwell University. I was the first person from my high school batch to pursue a bachelor’s in the U.S., so there were a lot of inquiries from my schoolmates. When I told them about all the application procedures, scholarships and courses that CU offers, everyone was so surprised and many of them had even begun the application process.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
I have learned many things during this pandemic. The very important one is that no matter what, this university will always be there for students. When the university was closed after spring break, I literally had no place to go. I talked with reslife and they allowed me to stay here as long as I wanted. They provided food and always made sure that we were doing well and were safe. Many of the professors were constantly checking on us and made sure that we were not alone in this. All of the kindness from the CU staff made me and my family really happy.
Plans after graduation?
After my bachelor’s I am planning to go back to India and help my father in his business but I would like to work only for two years and then I need to do my master’s here at CU. I will also try to find a job in the U.S. during my senior year. I would like to work in an IT company or in the healthcare industry. I will try my best to get into any of these fields.
Factoid or fun factabout your life in your home country
I am kind of good at dancing to rock music. When I was back in my home country whenever there was a family or school function, my friends and I would dance together. It was actually fun. I never learned rock dance by going to an academy or class; it was somewhere in my blood. My first dance was in preschool and I still remember my teachers and friends coming to me and saying that I danced so well. That’s when it all started. I even sing a little bit.
Jamaica
Denis Gray
Class of 2020, Business Administration “The small classrooms make it easier to focus and interact with professors… and they really care about our progress and success inside and outside of the classroom. I enjoy attending on-campus events and also off-campus trips to various attractions in NYC.”
Arju Pokhrel
Nepal
Class of 2021, Accounting (CIS Minor)
“My favorite moment would have to be my first Global Thanksgiving. It was the first event that I had been to on campus, and it was amazing to see so many of my friends and even the people I had never met before come together as a family and celebrate each other’s culture. Watching so many different people from different ethnic backgrounds come together and share their experiences, and delicious food (obviously!) made me realize that my prospects here at Caldwell would only be limited by the limits I put on myself.”
Sander Golmen
Norway
Class of 2021, Business Administration w. Sport Management
“As a student-athlete, Caldwell University gave me the opportunity to combine my education with my passion for soccer…. and at the same time, I have been able to discover and experience life and culture in America.”
Spain
Ana Gonzalez
Class of 2022, Biology (Pre-Physical Therapy)
“I chose Caldwell University because it granted me the opportunity to pursue my dream of studying biology while engaging in the sport I love, basketball. Moreover, having grown up influenced by the Catholic tradition, I very much appreciated the fact that Caldwell is a Catholic institution. My favorite moment at Caldwell thus far was the first time I stepped on campus! I instantly recognized just how welcoming and helpful the faculty and student body are. Since then, I have established friendships and bonds which have truly changed my life. One of the things I enjoy the most about Caldwell is the presence of diversity on campus. International students come from all over the world. I learn so much about different cultures, values, and ways of thinking through the presence of so many ethnic groups.”
Q&A with Ana
Hometown: Toledo, Spain
How did you find Caldwell University?
Through the basketball coach.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
Caldwell University offers me the opportunity of playing the sport I love, basketball while studying biology. One of the best aspects of Caldwell is its people. The diversity of the student body–coming from all over the world–has allowed me to open my mind to different cultures and ways of thinking.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
Caldwell University is a small and friendly school full of opportunities for both personal growth and career aspirations. The faculty shows they care about the well-being and success of the students. The Sisters of Saint Dominic also engage with the students. They share the Catholic values with us and they demonstrate how much they care about us by coming to our basketball games!
Main activities you have been involved in at Caldwell
I am part of the basketball team and I have participated in community service activities. I am a Spanish tutor in the Academic Success Center and a student worker for the Alumni Office and for campus security. I have helped in admissions events and I love to be involved in many events that the university organizes such as going to NBA games, trips to Washington D.C., and diverse activities organized by Student Life.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
The pandemic has been eye-opening for many of us. I have learned to value the small things in life. Being locked down at home has shown us that anything that we have in life–the job, our house, even time, is not worth it if we cannot share it with others.
Plans after graduation?
I’m going to physical therapy school.
Fact about your life in your home country
In my city, every year we celebrate “Corpus Christi” (Body of Christ). It is a festival where the old historical streets are decorated and thousands of people come to see a procession that brings the “custodia,” a work of art that represents the Body of Christ made of gold. The custodia leaves the cathedral and makes a tour of the city, accompanied by a group of giants that represent the continents, followed by orders, guilds, brotherhoods, and different authorities. It is a beautiful event that represents Spanish tradition, religion, and culture!
Aarion Romany
Class of 2021, Chemistry
“I selected Caldwell due to its proximity to New York City and knowing that I can access many internship opportunities from companies located in the metropolitan area. The small class sized also drew me in because its easier to talk to professors and ask questions.”
Uganda
Keith Kyewalabye
Class of 2021, Pre-Medicine
“I choose Caldwell University because of its small size and also because of the great scholarship I was offered. One of my best memories at Caldwell was when I was chosen to attend the World Youth Forum in Egypt. Friendliness, knowing almost everyone, playing indoor soccer, and playing with my band “clueless” are some of the things I enjoy the most about this place.”
Q&A with Keith
Hometown – Kampala, Uganda
How did you find Caldwell University? The internet. Haha! My EducationUSA advisor at the US Embassy in Kampala recommended some schools and Caldwell was one of them; everything else I found out from the internet.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
The immense growth that I have achieved from the several leadership opportunities available on campus. Some of those areas include serving as a resident assistant and graduate residence director, leading a band (The Clueless), and serving on the e-boards of various clubs. These positions in our small community setting have given me an opportunity to have an effect – and that’s all that matters in the end.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
That I have no control over what happens around/to me. However, it is within my ability to control how I react. Several of my professional portfolio-building activities were canceled including my MCAT, a summer research internship, a cancer research conference in California, and another in Chicago. I also had to postpone my medical school application. It was hard to deal with the fact that I could not do anything to change the circumstances presented to me. After a few weeks of feeling low/hopelessness, I was able to gather myself and resolve to respond accordingly and “roll with the punches.”
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
”It’s a small private Catholic University close to the city (NYC).” That’s my automatic response word-for-word— haha! Then I tell them in detail about our community and small size.
Plans after graduation?
Taking a gap year to do cancer research, hopefully somewhere in the northeast so I can visit Caldwell often. Then go on to a combined MD/Ph.D. program.
Factoid or fun fact about your life in your home country?
I have four younger siblings…all girls! So I lost in most democratic procedures like voting which TV channel to watch or game to play.
Vietnam
Nhung Nguyen (Rosie)
Class of 2022, Computer Science & Financial Economics
I learned about Caldwell in a very unexpected way and I could never be thankful enough for making this place my home away from home for the last two years. My sister once heard about Caldwell from her boss and advised me to apply for the school. Without any expectation, I looked it up and immediately fell in love with the liberal arts environment that Caldwell had to offer: the small class sizes with great student/faculty ratio, the priority on community services, the friendly town that is within walking distance
Q&A with Nhung
How did you find Caldwell University? I learned about Caldwell in a very unexpected way and I could never be thankful enough for having the opportunity to make this place my home away from home for the last two years. My sister heard about Caldwell from her boss and advised me to apply to the school. Without any hesitation, I looked it up and immediately fell in love with Caldwell’s liberal arts community.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University??
The benefit of being a Caldwell student is everything that Caldwell has to offer—the small class sizes with a great student/faculty ratio, the priority put on community services, the friendly town that is within walking distance from campus, and especially the convenient location that allows students to explore New York City within a one-hour drive.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
It is a small place yet it is full of support and friendship. It’s where I can confidently raise my voice knowing I will be heard and understood.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
Through the pandemic, I have learned that “if there’s a will, there’s a way”. I never imagined I would leave Caldwell in the middle of the semester, pack all my belongings from two years within a night, and study remotely from across the globe in Vietnam for months later. I did not get to say goodbye to my friends because everything happened so abruptly yet the unfortunate situation somehow pulled us closer together and I never felt like I was living away from my friends in the U.S, thanks to social media and other communication platforms. Despite the 11-hour difference, I have managed to stay up in the middle of the night, usually until 1 a.m. or even 3 a.m. to participate in remote classes. I truly appreciate the opportunities to continue my education, to stay safe at home with my family, and to share important moments with my close friends. Living through a time of uncertainty, I have learned to stay positive and always be on the outlook for a solution.
Plans after graduation?
After graduation, I would like to work in the technology industry as an engineer, most preferably for Fintech or Edtech corporations. I am the type of person who is willing to learn and explore new things. I also try not to limit myself to any standards or any specific positions. I believe experimentation is what will help me grow and be flexible in any situation.
Factoid or fun fact about your life in your home country?
I have lived my whole life in the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, one of the biggest and most important cities in Vietnam. Like many other young people, I love driving motorbikes around the city with my friends, exploring hundreds of vintage coffee shops or hidden alleys full of delicious street foods.
Keesy Marcano
Class of 2023, Business Administration
Dominican Republic
Without a doubt, my favorite Caldwell moment has been participating on the Caldwell Service Day, where I was able to serve and give back to the community. In this activity, I had the amazing opportunity to be part of a tradition that highlights the university’s values. What I enjoy the most is that the community lets you know that you matter and they make you part of the family from day one. Also, there are so many ways to get involved in campus and stay active thanks to the many clubs and organizations that there exist.
Reeya Callychurn
Class of 2023, Biology
Mauritius
“My flag-raising ceremony and winning the C-Pin award are among my favorite moments at Caldwell. I was the first one from Mauritius, a small island on the east coast of South Africa. It was a matter of great pride to represent my country and introduce my culture to my classmates. The C-Pin award is usually awarded to an exemplary Caldwell University student. Receiving this award during my freshman year strengthened my belief that Caldwell University had everything to make me thrive academically, socially, spiritually and intellectually.”
Paula Dits
Spain
Class of 2022, Biology
“Every year I spend at Caldwell University is a new chance to learn and improve as a basketball player and also as a person. Something that stands out is that these experiences at CU are making me realize how the four words of the core values–Respect, Integrity, Community and Excellence–are the basics to having a successful career.”
Q&A with Paula
Hometown : Alicante, Spain
How did you find Caldwell University? Through basketball
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
Every year I spend at Caldwell University is a new chance to learn and improve as a basketball player and also as a person. Something that stands out is that these experiences at CU are making me realize how the four words of the core values–Respect, Integrity, Community and Excellence–are the basics to having a successful career.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
It is a friendly and nice university close to the city. The people are very welcoming and open to everybody. It is so nice to live around a community that cares for everyone and that makes you feel like [you are] home.
Main activities you have been involved in at Caldwell
I am part of the women’s basketball team. I have been involved in some of the community service activities that the university has organized.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
I have learned that you cannot take anything for granted. Everything we have in our lives has value and we need to appreciate it. I also have realized that everything comes when you least expect [it] and that we always have to be open to learning and facing new challenges during our lives.
Plans after graduation?
Keep playing basketball in Spain and do my master’s in education.
Factoid or fun fact about your life in your home country.
Every New Year’s Eve in Spain we eat 12 grapes (one for every month) in the last 30 seconds of the day. It is a tradition that has existed since the last century. It is something very unique and special from my country. I love playing music and drawing. I am a very active and happy person too.
Thomas Anthony Costa Santana
Class of 2021, Psychology
Brazil
“Since the first time I step foot on campus, I felt at home. I enjoy the way people treat you here, the diversity of nations, and also the small classes with only a few students which makes you closer to them and to the professor.”
Q&A with Thomas
Hometown: Carmo do Rio Claro, Brazil
How did you find Caldwell University?
I was thinking of transferring from my old school in California and my uncle who lives in Wayne, New Jersey visited Caldwell’s campus and told me about it. While he was telling me about it on the phone, I felt that it was the place I was looking for.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
The academic and athletic level is high, and as I love challenges, this makes my experience a lot better. Also, there is a huge diversity of people and cultures, which is incredible. I am amazed at how much I have grown as a student, as a player and also as a person during the past two years at school.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
I always tell people that Caldwell University is more than just a university; it is a community, a family.
Main activities you have been involved in at Caldwell
I am part of the soccer program. I also represent the soccer team in the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and I am a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
I am not learning, but understanding things that I already believed before, for example, how much family is important, to be patient, to take the most from the bad experiences and to never give up.
Plans after graduation?
I would love to get the Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization to get experience in my field of study. It would give me more time to plan for continuing my studies. I want to try to become a professional soccer player in the U.S.
Fact about your life in your home country – I am from a really small town and I left home when I was 13 to play soccer in another state and [I] kind of lived by myself for three years until my parents moved to where I was living. I also play saxhorn.
Yaman Thapa
Nepal
Class of 2022, Biology &Chemistry
“The Caldwell community accepted me and helped me flourish in my academic, professional and personal life. The most beneficial thing for me is the opportunity that I have received being a student. I deeply value the bonds I share with the faculty, staff and students.”
Q&A with Yaman
Name : Yaman Thapa ‘22
Major : Double major in Biology and Chemistry
Hometown : Kathmandu, Nepal
How did you find Caldwell University?: I got to know about Caldwell through my friends.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
The Caldwell community accepted me and helped me flourish in my academic, professional and personal life. The most beneficial thing for me is the opportunity that I have received being a student. I deeply value the bonds I share with the faculty, staff and students.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
I tell people that it is a small school with a warm environment, a welcoming community and infinite opportunities.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
I have learned how valuable time is, how we can utilize each moment of each day to accomplish small tasks and eventually conquer bigger projects.
Plans after graduation?
I plan on becoming a research scientist (is what I tell people). I honestly want to explore academia further more to discover my true interests.
Fun facts about you: I read 20 books this summer. I do origami, spoken word poetry, digital art and am currently writing a children’s book.
Orges Rrpaj
Class of 2021, Health Science
Albania
Being a student at Caldwell University has been a remarkable experience. I have grown personally and academically. In May 2021, I will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science, but throughout my journey at Caldwell I have been able to explore other interests of mine. It has been beneficial for me to study in a small campus where I get to interact with students, faculty and staff members. I have embraced the core values of Caldwell University (respect, community, integrity, excellence) and will continue to proudly exercise them as I move towards the next chapter of my education.
Q&A with Orges
Name: Orges Rrapaj ’21
Major: Health Science
Hometown: Berat, Albania
How did you find Caldwell University?
After graduating from high school I researched multiple universities around the New York City area that offered quality education in Natural Sciences. I found Caldwell University and got in touch with a few other current Albanian students studying in Caldwell. I recall taking virtual tours through Google maps around campus and learning about programs and student life.
What has been most beneficial for you in being a student at Caldwell University?
Being a student at Caldwell University has been a remarkable experience. I have grown personally and academically. In May 2021, I will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science, but throughout my journey at Caldwell I have been able to explore other interests of mine. It has been beneficial for me to study in a small campus where I get to interact with students, faculty and staff members. I have embraced the core values of Caldwell University (respect, community, integrity, excellence) and will continue to proudly exercise them as I move towards the next chapter of my education.
What do you tell others about Caldwell University?
Caldwell University is my home away from home. If I was given the possibility to go back in time and apply to higher education colleges in the U.S., I would choose Caldwell University again. As an international student, it is important to feel connected to the campus and accepted by its community. The opportunities are unlimited and everyone is friendly and compassionate. Caldwell University is a place where diversity is recognized and celebrated unequivocally. The Catholic Dominican tradition is part of this institution’s legacy. It is the right place to acknowledge your own potential and interests.
Main activities you have been involved in at Caldwell
At first I was introduced to the diverse number of student clubs and organizations on campus. I was mainly interested in student government and international student organizations. I participated in their activities and gradually became part of decision-making. I have volunteered during Caldwell Day where students do community service for a full day. I have great experiences with the Campus Ministry in their Midnight Runs to New York City to help the homeless with clothing and food, as well as their retreat programs that provide an environment to engage more with other students and grow more spiritually. During my sophomore year, I became part of the Executive Board of Student Government Association holding positions as Chief of Staff and Vice President for Event Planning. I was then elected president the next school year and my focus was to bring the Student Government closer to students and turning it into a small institution where students’ voices are heard and represented efficiently. I attended conferences, workshops, clubs and career fairs throughout these three years.
What life lessons have you learned or are you learning through the pandemic?
This pandemic has expanded my knowledge on public health, politics and most importantly education. I consider myself to be an in-person learner but this pandemic was a challenge for students alike around the world. Given the circumstances, I adapted to a new norm with online/remote learning. On a broader scale, I learned that we can overcome this pandemic only if we get together and respect the pandemic advisors when needed. It is a lot of information to be processed so we need to master our reasoning to make the best decisions for ourselves, our loved ones and our community.
Plans after graduation?
Thanks to my wonderful advisor Dr. Berki and Caldwell University as a liberal arts institution, I gained awareness of public health and the sociology aspect of medicine. Therefore, I plan to further my education in graduate school for Epidemiology and Public Health.
Factoid or fun fact about your life
For two years, I commuted every day for four hours from New York City to Caldwell University while being a full-time student. It was fun and rewarding!
