Rachel D'Antonio '11: Developing Leadership Skills in an Ideal Setting
Majors: History, Art History
Hometown: Storrs-Mansfield, CT
Growing up in a state university town, Rachel D'Antonio knew what she did - and didn't - want from her college experience: "I wanted to be in a classic college setting, but didn't want to be part of a huge institution - I felt I'd do better at a smaller school." When Rachel stepped on to the Saint Joseph College campus she knew she found the perfect fit. "My first impression was how beautiful it was," Rachel said. "Then I started to talk to people and felt a strong sense of community. I wanted to go to a private school, but didn't think I could afford it. The financial aid package I received made everything possible."
Today, Rachel is well entrenched in the Saint Joseph College community. A senior with a double major in History and Art History, Rachel is an R.A. (resident assistant) and active in a variety of campus organizations. "Saint Joseph College ended up being the perfect place for me. I've grown in ways I never anticipated, especially in terms of my leadership skills." she said. "At the end of my first year, I attended Leadership Quest and from there, I applied to be an R.A." (Leadership Quest is an annual SJC event where students attend a regional conference that focuses on leadership development).
Now Rachel finds herself in the position of offering support and mentorship to other students. "I use my own experience to help the students on my floor. I remember what it was like my first year and how it took time for me to get involved with campus life," she said. In particular she encourages them to attend activities on campus ("there's no shortage of things to do") and to use the resources available. "I'm a big supporter of the Center for Academic Excellence (CAE)," Rachel said. "They helped me a lot, especially with my writing."
When asked what sets Saint Joseph College apart from other schools, Rachel said: "It's the community. I was surprised that the professors knew me by name and felt that they were really invested in my success. From my first day of classes my freshman year, there was not one professor who didn't offer their support. I don't think that happens everywhere."
Want more? Read Rachel's Blog here!
