During my time at Salve, I most enjoyed courses that encouraged stepping out of my comfort zone, thinking openly and challenging my beliefs. Reflecting on it now, I owe gratitude to my high school, Fordham Prep, for instilling in me the Jesuit principle of being open to growth. This concept has played a major theme over my four years here.

Outside of the classroom, this principle nudged me and a few members of Salve’s Entrepreneurship Club to attend a networking event in downtown Newport. Embracing this naturally uncomfortable environment with an open mind led me to meet Sean Napolitano, a local business owner and serial entrepreneur. 

Since that night in December 2016, Sean has become a great mentor to me, having offered me my first real internship experience. I assisted in marketing, development and community outreach for his company A1 Roofing and Construction. 

After a few months, in addition to working at A1, Sean entrusted me to be part of his startup team for Liberty Donuts, his newest business venture. This provided me with invaluable hands-on experience and many lessons in strategic management and innovation. 

Although my degree is in business administration and marketing, I also enjoyed taking classes in philosophy, psychology and religious studies. I'd like to give a special thanks to all my professors during my time here at Salve, for each of them have had a unique impact on me along my journey. 

The faculty member that has had the greatest impact has been Jesse Harding, who graduated from Salve with undergraduate degrees in philosophy and psychology, as well as a master’s degree in holistic counseling. I've taken both of his classes – The Art and Science of Meditation and Engaging the Taoist Experience – and also had the pleasure of interning at his martial arts studio. 

Professor Harding is the master instructor at Villari's of Middletown, where he teaches qigong, meditation, tai chi and various other practices across all ages. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to practice these ancient wisdom traditions hands-on, both in class and at Villari's. 

My experiences with Professor Harding and other supportive professors have helped manifest my long-term dream of opening a health and wellness facility. For the time being, my personal mission statement is to help bridge the gap between mental and physical health. I intend to do so through private and group training in fitness, athletics and leadership, as well as professional speaking and consulting.

One of my favorite parts about having chosen to study business is the vast range of opportunity that lies ahead. To some degree, business is a necessary component to every industry out there.

For undecided students who may see this, I implore you not to panic. My advice would be to explore different possibilities and do your best in trusting your intuition. I personally didn't declare a major until half way through my sophomore year.

As I reflect on my four years at Salve, one of my most memorable experiences will be my time playing with the men's rugby club. This team has provided me with an extended family and countless memories I'll carry with me the rest of my life. It was an honor to be a part of Salve Rugby and I look forward to seeing it's growth in the years to come.