My name is Richard and I am currently a junior here at Suffolk University. I am pursuing my undergraduate degree in psychology as well as a minor in sociology. After I graduate I hope to further my education by obtaining my masters in social work.

When I first applied to Suffolk I wasn’t sure if this would be the right fit for me. I wanted to go to a big school that had a population of 20,000 or more as well as I wanted to go to a school that had an enclosed campus. I was hesitant about going to Suffolk because it is a smaller school and the campus is opened to the City of Boston. I was worried that I wouldn’t get the true college experience. I thought that because Suffolk is not a traditional campus that I would be segregated from the rest of the community.

Before making any decision I went on a campus tour and I made sure to ask questions that initially helped me decide to attend Suffolk. I realized that the advantages of going to a small school meant being in smaller classes. For me that was terrific because with having classes of no more than 24 meant a better learning environment. Academically this was perfect because it provided a stronger connection between professors and students. When I toured Miller Hall I was in awe because the building was absolutely beautiful and right in Beacon Hill area. I ended up residing in the 150 Tremont Residence Hall which was fine because its location is right in the Downtown area and my room was on the top floor which I had a beautiful view of the Boston scenery.

The accommodations and the academic aspects of Suffolk helped influence my decision but I was still worried about being connected with the rest of campus. I soon realized that community is very important to Suffolk. From the 60+ student organizations, as well as school events, and even in the classroom there is a strong emphasis that is placed on community. I became a part of this close knit community through my involvements. My first year at Suffolk I got a work study job in the Residence Life Office. By working in the Residence Life Office learned about an opportunity that allowed me to work and live in the Residence Hall during the summer by being a Conference Assistant. By having two great Orientation Leaders I became Treasurer of my Hispanic Association my sophomore year and I also was an Orientation Leader for the past two years as well.

For me Suffolk presented many opportunities to get involved as well as to experience new cultures. I found out that Suffolk also has a campus in Madrid Spain and so this past fall I spent my semester studying in Spain. This was the greatest learning experience both culturally and individually.

When I first came here I was worried that this was a wrong fit but after discovering the many resources that Suffolk offered it made me feel better about my decision. If I could offer any advice what I would say is that don’t make any decisions until you have had a tour. Also don’t forget to ask questions about the university and its programs so that you are fully aware of what they offer. Suffolk was not my first choice but by asking questions and researching of the many programs that the school had I was able to finally decide that Suffolk was a perfect match for me.