Danielle Desjardins ’10
Finding “Who I Am”
Danielle Desjardins ’10 is fully aware of the transformative experience that college provides. “I am different than I was when I started out, much more focused and capable” she said. “I’m living proof that college is a journey of self discovery.” Having graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Desjardins is applying to the College’s Marriage and Family Therapy graduate program and returning to campus to work as resident assistant (R.A.)
As such, Desjardins willingly guides younger students in adjusting to the rigors of college life. Nothing speaks as powerfully as her own experience, though: “I was pretty unfocused in my freshman year, definitely more interested in having a good time than applying myself. My grades were average, but I was miserable.”
Originally enrolled in the Nursing program, Desjardins knew it wasn’t the right major for her, but was unsure of what to do. Then, in her sophomore year she took an introductory Psychology course and everything fell into place: “Psychology was the culmination of all my interests. From that point on, I fell in love with everything Saint Joseph College had to offer,” she said. “I started to leave my comfort zone and put myself out there, building relationships and friendships that will last me a lifetime.”
Active as an undergraduate student, Desjardins served on the executive board of the Student Programming and Events Council (S.P.E.C.), the student academic appeals board, President Reid’s inauguration committee and the Investiture planning committee. “I felt I had a lot to offer with my own personal experience,” Desjardins said. “I wanted to share what I learned and be a role model to other students. I want to let them know it’s okay to have to find yourself and to encourage them to stay focused until they do.”
As for herself: “I feel unstoppable. I emerged from this initial journey as a goal-driven, determined, and strong-willed young woman who will stop at nothing to reach success. I have found what I love, what I do well and what I need to work on. I have found who I am.”
