MEET OUR STUDENT AMBASSADORS
Q&A WITH BRITTANY WILCOX
Student Ambassador
Year: SophomoreMajor: Nursing
Hometown: Canton, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica for the community atmosphere as soon as you step foot on campus. Everyone holds doors for each other’s and all the professors know who you are!
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am a student ambassador, I am in Colleges Against Cancer, Utica College Emergency Medical Services, Health Studies Student Society, Pool Pals/Aqua Buddies, and I work at Tres Habaneros.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the dining commons, I love to meet up with friends there and catch up on our days and classes over dinner!
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is the simulation dolls that we use in preparation for clinical. They are incredibly lifelike and help to get us ready for what we will encounter in real life situations.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about being a UC student is finding out firsthand how accommodating and caring the professors are. They will work with you any way that they can to help you succeed not only in their class but also your major and career path.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica College has helped prepare me for my future by offering cutting-edge technology that gives me a look into situations that I am going to encounter. The college also offers mock interviews and resume building to help my future job search.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Step out of your comfort zone. Try to do something that scares you every day! Whether it be sitting next to someone new in class or joining a new club, these are some of the best ways to make new friends here at UC!
Q&A WITH AUSTIN DRAKE
Student Ambassador
Year: Graduate Class of 2022Major: Health Studies - Physical Therapy | Aging Studies Minor
Hometown: Sherrill, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College because of the lowered tuition and the family atmosphere that I got when I toured the school.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am an ambassador and choose to dedicate the rest of my time to my studies.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus has to be Gaetano Stadium because I love going to watch the football games and the view of the dome behind it is one of my favorite views on campus.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is that I am able to learn from professionals in the field of physical therapy and they get to share their experiences with me. By learning from professionals in the field I can gain more knowledge on what to expect once I finish my studies here at Utica College.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about being a UC student is all of the friendly people I have met on campus. Coming into my first year at UC, I did not expect to make as many new friends as I have on campus. It is enjoyable to walk across campus every day and get to see so many friendly and familiar faces.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica College has prepared me for my future career by giving me the tools to be successful as a professional. In one of my courses, it is all about preparing me to be a professional in the healthcare field. I am being taught how to interview, build a resume, and make a cover letter. Utica College is very dedicated to not only making sure their students graduate but also make sure they are prepared for a career after school.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Find something that piques your interest and do it. By getting involved on campus in any activities, you can meet new friends that you can carry with you throughout life. By getting involved on campus in various things, I have been able to meet many new friends and make special connections with many people.
Q&A WITH HALI VANDERMEULEN
Student Ambassador
Year: SeniorMajor: Wellness and Adventure Education
Hometown: Newburgh, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
My first visit was just a great experience It had a nice friendly environment.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am on the SAAC E board and I am action for the women lacrosse team.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place is the Athletic center.
What is the best thing about your major?
It is teaching me all the skills necessary for my profession, but I am having fun doing it.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
How well I know my professors.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
It has helped me build networking and brought meow of my shell.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Enjoy every moment take hundreds of photos because its gone before you know it.
Q&A WITH JARED DECROSTA
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Cybersecurity with a minor in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation
Hometown: Marlboro, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I did not want to go to college and be a number. The relatively small student body allows me to develop close working relationships with my classmates and professors. From an academic perspective, UC has been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and Dept. of Homeland Security. It has also earned a designation as a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence. My field of study is growing exponentially and I want to be positioned for success upon graduation. Being part of a program that has had to meet rigorous requirements for these two designations gives me confidence that I will be ready to take my place in the workforce.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am a member of Alpha Phi Omega and, this year, will be VP of Scouting for this organization. There are many activities on campus that do not require weekly meetings- if you are not someone who has the time to join a formal club, you can still stay connected to the college community by participating in on/off campus events offered throughout the year.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
The Pioneer Pub. A great place to meet up with friends and relax.
What is the best thing about your major?
My major is hands-on. The large majority of my classes include lab time which allows us to put into practice the things we have learned in lecture.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The connections I’ve developed with my professors within the first two years were a pleasant surprise. All of my professors want me to succeed, and offer as many resources as they can to help me pursue my goals.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
I am gaining the technical knowledge I will need to be successful in my career but I am also learning valuable lessons about how to work closely with people whose ideas and experiences differ from mine. A large number of our UC professors are also working in their field and, since a career isn’t just about what you can memorize from a book, this brings an entirely different element to the classroom and helps connect our readings and lectures to real life applications. College in general has strengthened my communication skills and organizational ability, both of which will serve me well in my profession.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Ask a lot of questions, even the ones that you think are silly. You want to be sure the place you are spending the next four years is somewhere that values what’s important to you and has the resources you need to help you be successful. Also, when you are looking at schools, ask to meet with a department head or professor from the program you intend to study. Attend a class- any class -with a current student; or, better yet, set up an overnight so that you have the opportunity to see the college over a 24 hour period. Reach out to the UC Admissions Office with questions. We want you to have a successful college search.
Q&A WITH JOANNA GAERTNER
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Psychology - Child life
Hometown: Saratoga Springs, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
The class size and easy access to professors made it evident that this is a place where I could excel academically.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
Field Hockey and I’m an ambassador here in the admissions office.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
The academic quad is a great place to sit in between class and eat a snack or chat on the phone.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is amount of opportunities that I am presented with to hands on work with kids. this is because I have a lot of field work experiences to accomplish in order to meet the requirements to graduate. In addition to the amount of field work I have to do my major creates a broad variety of experiences.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
My most favorite surprise coming into utica college was the welcoming environment. I never felt like i couldn't go to anything or I would feel like I didn’t belong anywhere that I went.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
It has, for sure!
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Go to everything! Everything meaning class, the involvement fair sporting events getting out around campus is a great way to make new friends and get to know the campus a little more.
Q&A WITH FIONA SHEA
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Therapeutic Recreation
Hometown: East Greenbush, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College because of the small class sizes and the ability to be one on one with professors to advance my learning atmosphere. I fell in love with the field hockey and track teams instantly, it felt like a campus but even more so like a family
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am on the field hockey and track team here at Utica College.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus would have to be the small open courtyard underneath the library building.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is being able to get into the community and receive hands on knowledge and experience through the help of field work and community based learning that TR provides.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise I have had was the unconditional care and effort that the professors give to us.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
UC has helped me already by giving me the chance to learn in the classroom and then apply the knowledge I received through experience in community based leisure.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
To come with arms open, be ready to embrace the differences and diversity that UC has to offer, be ready to find a new kind of you through new experiences and new abilities you have not had yet! UC is a friendly warm campus that feels a little like home!
Q&A WITH DAVID MOONEY
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation
Hometown: Ontario, NY (Outside of Rochester)
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College because they had the exact major that I was looking for as well as the family atmosphere that I truly value.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am the program manager for the football team as well as being a student ambassador. I am also a member of our national service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus has to be the Dome, hands down. The reasoning behind that is not only can you get a good workout in but you can also play basketball and other intramural sports where you have the opportunity to win a free t-shirt.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is the diverse opportunity in finding a career. I personally want to go into sworn law enforcement which is the officer on the street but you can also go into the private sector or work for any financial institution as a fraud investigator.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The surprise for me was the fact that all of my professors knew my name within the first two weeks of class and would email me if I was sick to ask me if I was okay. I have never had that before and it makes me want to get up and go to class every day.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
UC has prepared me for my career by having professors of practice and giving me the tools and experience necessary to be successful in the workplace.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
My biggest piece of advice is to be open minded. You will meet so many people from all different backgrounds and they will teach you so many valuable things that it will only make you a better person for it.
Q&A WITH JASON BINGAY
Student Ambassador
Year: SeniorMajor: Nutrition
Hometown: Mohegan Lake, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica college for the small class sizes and the family atmosphere.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
The activities I am involved in are intramurals, track and field, I am a Resident Assistant and an Ambassador for the Office of Admissions.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the upstairs floor of the library or Alexis Cooper’s office.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing I learned about my major is learning about the different ways chronic illnesses can be cured through nutrition.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about being a UC student is how involved with the community I have become.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica college has prepared me for my future by giving me the opportunity to work within my field even before graduating.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Get involved early in different organizations on campus.
Q&A WITH KIERNAN BRIGGS
Student Ambassador
Year: SeniorMajor: Risk Management and Insurance (With a goal of getting into the graduate MBA program for Accounting.)
Hometown: Fort Plain, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
This was the most affordable option that gave me an opportunity to be involved on campus and still be close to home.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I’m a member of the Baseball team and the team’s representative on SAAC. I’m also an orientation mentor!
Where is your favorite place on campus?
The baseball field here is like my home away from home, but I also love the Clark City Center!
What is the best thing about your major?
There are very few people who are in my major, so I’ve had the opportunity of getting my advisor and professor’s undivided attention.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about UC would have to be how welcoming and genuinely nice all the people are here. From the maintenance staff to the professors and everyone else, they will always be smiling and brighten my day.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica College has helped me prepare for the future by teaching me valuable lessons and material that I will need in my daily life. They’ve given me the opportunity to be a part of many organizations and groups on campus that have all shaped me into the professional that I am on my way to becoming.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Don’t be afraid to try something new and get involved. Everyone is so nice and will welcome you with open arms. College is a lot about the connections you make and I’ve made some of my best friends and biggest supporters by putting myself out there and stepping out of my comfort zone!
Q&A WITH KRISTINA KUIL
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Health Studies - Physical Therapy
Hometown: Lindenhurst, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College for the Physical Therapy program they have here, and the small campus and classes.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am involved in Colleges Against Cancer, Student Government Association, Honors Association, and Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity on campus.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the upstairs portion of the library looking out of the windows.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is how small the class size is and how close the students get.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about being a UC Student is how willing professors are to help you inside and outside of academics, and how interested in your well-being they are.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica College has prepared me for my future career by having classes that are hands on learning that have you apply what you are learning instead of only lecture-style classes.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
My piece of advice for prospective students is to go to organization meetings and informationals, you may find something that you really enjoy doing and make friends along the way.
Q&A WITH MATTESON WILLIAMS
Student Ambassador
Year: SophomoreMajor: Cybersecurity
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College because the Cybersecurity program is modern, upbeat and fascinating. The professors in the Cybersecurity department here at UC are involved and helpful with setting up a successful career path for you.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am currently the Secretary of the Utica College Cybersecurity Club. I am also a member of the Organization of Justice Studies, National Society of Leadership and Success, and a volunteer at the Womyn’s Resource Center.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus to study is the little corner in front of the WPNR station, where there is a big window that overlooks Deperno Hall.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major is that it is a field that is growing exponentially everyday. There is always a new challenge that encourages you to learn something new. This field is extremely relevant in today’s world with defending national infrastructures and protecting people’s sensitive information from malicious hackers.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise that I have experienced at UC is the family friendly environment. Professors care about your progress and are willing to sit down with you and answer questions. Many students at UC are inviting and have established a community.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Utica College has prepared me for my future career by providing me with opportunities and work experiences. Having that real world experience in Cybersecurity has reassured me that Cybersecurity is what I want to do for the rest of my life.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
I recommend joining clubs and organizations on campus. Find a club that involves your interests but may not be related to your major. This will give you something separate from your studies but related to your passions. Being apart of a club helps you become a leader, get involved on campus, but also helps you make friends.
Q&A WITH MICHAEL DELIA
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Construction Management
Hometown: Poughquag, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica College because of the small campus and because of the Construction Management program. The people who are on this campus are amazing and willing to help you no matter what. When I sat in on my first meeting with the Construction Management Director Dr. Dubbelde at one of the many admissions events I attended, I knew that I loved it here and was where I was going to be for the next four years.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am the President of our Student Contractors Association on campus. We are a student run organization for the Construction Management students where we participate in “builds”, professional development, and social activities. Our “builds” consist of projects on and off campus that are for fun or to give back to our local community.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is not even open yet. The new Construction Management building (Thurston Hall) is going to be my favorite place on campus. It is going to be a great resource for us as CM students to have a place to go to class, get work done and hang out.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best part about Construction Management are the people. Our professors are all one of a kind; they are passionate about what they teach, they treat you as professionals and expect you to act accordingly, but most of all they are there for you. If you ever need anything, the professors are always willing to help you out.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise about being at UC has been the help that is offered. Every college talks about the amenities that are available for students but UC backs up its word with faculty and staff that really cares and will go out of their way to help you.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
The CM program in particular prepared me for my professional career in a couple different ways. As a program we have a dress code to start dressing in professional decorum early. We also are required to do 480 hours of an internship before we graduate where we work in industry. The subject matter that we learn is also second to none, our 100% job placement is a testament to our amazing faculty teaching the most up-to-date information to our students as given to them by industry.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Stay organized. I am a very organized person and there are times where I find myself getting confused or feeling all over the place because I do not take the time to organize myself all the time. Stay organized.
Q&A WITH NICOLETTE CONKIN
Student Ambassador
Year: JuniorMajor: Health Studies - PT
Hometown: Los Altos, CA
Why did you choose Utica College?
I chose Utica because I always wanted to go to the east coast for college, pursue a career in physical therapy, and play basketball. UC checked off all of those marks and once I visited the campus I knew it was the place for me.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am a part of the women's basketball team.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the dome because it's one of the coolest facilities I've been in for athletes.
What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about my major would be the professors, most of them are extremely funny and know how to make learning fun while also being effective.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise would be how inviting and friendly all the other students on campus are.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Many of my classes have given me advice on advancing professional behaviors, interviewing skills, and networking opportunities.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Don't procrastinate on homework! You won't do it later even if you say you will.
Q&A WITH RANDY MIKSCH
Student Ambassador
Year: SophomoreMajor: Cybersecurity
Hometown: Gurnee, IL
Why did you choose Utica College?
I was looking for a school with a great cybersecurity program and was recruited to come here and play soccer.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
I am a Student Ambassador, a SAAC (student athletic advisory committee) representative for the men’s soccer team, and I play soccer here.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Economic Crime & Justice Studies & Cybersecurity building.
What is the best thing about your major?
Everything we learn about in class is applicable to real life scenarios; I can envision my future self utilizing the things I am learning about now.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
The best surprise of being a UC student was learning how many internship opportunities there are here.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
It has given me the connections and knowledge to get fully prepared for my career.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Join clubs if you are a shy person, it helps you meet people and make friends.
Q&A WITH KWASI ADDO-BAFFOUR JR.
Student Ambassador
Year: SophomoreMajor: Construction Management
Hometown: Albany, NY
Why did you choose Utica College?
Recruitment for football and the family oriented environment that you get everywhere you are on campus.
What activities are you involved with at Utica College?
Football, B.O.N.D Organization.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
The Dome.
What is the best thing about your major?
The new building they are creating.
What has been the best surprise about being a UC student?
Free apparel frequently from the organizations I represent on campus.
How has Utica College prepared you for your future career?
Being a sophomore, so far my interactions between people in athletics and everywhere else on campus has encouraged me to always be the best me I can be and to never stop competing. Although I have just started my new major the organization of the program between what they expect from the students and what the professors are bringing to the table is already showing me that I will be prepared for my future as long as I hold down my end of the deal.
One piece of advice for prospective students is…
Do not stay in a shell. Meet new people and try new things. Don’t be hesitant to push yourself.