It was senior year, and I was about three months away from graduating with a BA in political science and international studies. I had briefly thought about law school, but later decided that I wanted to explore the international sector more. As a double major, it was required that students take a foreign language and study abroad, but I also had a deep interest in politics – both of these opportunities led me to Heller. I was sitting in the common area of my dorm, waiting for my roommates to arrive back from class when I got the email notification from Heller. Because I was so anxious and overwhelmed, I didn’t open the email until my roommates arrived, and once learning of my acceptance we immediately celebrated by ordering mozzarella sticks and watching Disney’s Elemental. Leading up to Heller was a different experience, unlike my family who lived in Boston and went to school in the area, I had always turned to opportunities away from home. However, since being at Heller, I found that I enjoy being so close to home, and I especially enjoy getting to feel a sense of internationalism and diversity while being at Heller. As a Black student, it was important for me to feel like I was not only welcomed into the community, but that the community was also willing to invest in me via programming and inclusive course content.
My first experience on Heller’s campus was a smooth transition as well – in fact, I scheduled an on campus visit for my sister, mom and I and got to meet with a Heller faculty member. We toured campus, visited the library, and saw the classrooms – I instantly knew that I had made the right decision with choosing Heller. Not to be cliche, but it felt like a movie – you know, the ones where the college students say “hi” to you as you're walking by – people just seemed happy here.
Overall being at Heller has been a great experience so far – I’m not only growing academically, but professionally as well. Because of Heller, I’ve attended networking events, spoke on panels, attended and organized conferences. What I quickly learned is that the Heller community is global, and willing to invest whatever it takes to uplift and encourage current students and alumni.