Major: Italian

Hometown: North Kingstown, RI

Why did you choose the University of Rhode Island?

 As a Rhode Islander, I chose the University of Rhode Island to complete my bachelor’s degree after completing my first 2 years at the local community college. Because of the university’s generous agreement with CCRI, I was able to finish my degree at a great discount. Besides monetary reasons and convenience sake, I chose URI because of its reputable foreign language programs.

 What do you value about your liberal arts education?

What I value most about my liberal arts education are the concepts it has taught me. Through analysis and group discussions across disciplines, I have learned not only a lot about myself, but about why others have varying views and different ways of thinking.

 If you were to offer advice to an incoming first-year student, what would you say?

To incoming first-year students, I would recommend two things: The first would be to get into a weekly routine as soon as possible. This will help with everything from academic performance to mental well-being and maximizing one’s free time. The second would be to begin exploring various academic areas through general education and electives. It is not uncommon for students to change interest in their areas of study and it is best to know this as early as possible.