Degrees: B.S. in Actuarial Mathematics with a minor in Italian; B.S.B.A. in Finance
How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
The Stamps Scholarship allowed me to attend the University of Pittsburgh, and therefore opened the doors to a world of opportunity for my undergraduate career. I was able to pursue my interests outside of the classroom through various international experiences. I traveled Dublin where I studied Irish Literature and Culture while learning more about my own heritage. I also had the opportunity to attend the International Youth Leadership Conference – Prague hosted by civic concepts international. This was one of the most meaningful experiences that I had as an undergraduate because I was able to put all my leadership skills to the test through various simulations that addressed foreign affairs issues. This was a very eye-opening experience for me and allowed me to grow not only as a leader but as a member of the global community by gaining a better understanding of what life is like for students living on the other side of the globe. Also, being a stamps scholar has given me the opportunity to be a member of the stamps scholars network, a group of truly impressive individuals who have inspired me and taught me what it means to be a scholar, leader, and friend. I feel privileged to have connected with so many scholars at the national and regional conferences.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
I would have told my freshman self to slow down because its okay to take time for yourself and to make sure that you’re focusing on the opportunities that allow you to pursue your passions. It is easy to want to take on every responsibility possible, but in doing so it is also easy to lose sight of what’s important.
Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
I have been blessed with a network of family and friends that have stood by and supported me throughout my college career. Without their unwavering love and encouragement, I would not have had the confidence to pursue a dual degree or take on so many responsibilities.
What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
This past fall, Pitt held its first annual Stamps Scholar retreat. I was actually able to help plan it, and that paved the way for organizing the regional conference. We traveled to Outdoor Odyssey and stayed in a cabin for the retreat. It really allowed me to become closer with my fellow Pitt Stamps Scholars. Also, part of the retreat was to complete a high ropes course and I have a huge fear of heights. It felt great to be able to conquer this fear in completing the course and it would not have been possible without the other scholars cheering me on. That moment really enforced the fact that the scholar community is more like a family.
What comes next?
Now that I have graduated, I look forward to joining Aetna’s Actuarial Leadership Development Program as an Actuarial Analyst in Harrisburg.
Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them” – Walt Disney