91��Ƶ Works

From 91��Ƶ to PwC: Accounting Student Makes the Most of a Bridgewater Education

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 19:16:13 +0000

From 91��Ƶ to PwC: Accounting Student Makes the Most of a Bridgewater Education BBENSON@bridgew.edu Tue, 07/21/2026 - 15:16

Glendys Bonilla, ’27, cites professional and personal growth that led to prestigious internship

July 22, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

Glendys Bonilla, ’27, came to 91��Ƶ with a keen interest in accounting. She didn’t consider a position with a top firm within reach — until she attended a career panel designed for first-generation students like herself.

The event featured an alumna who works as an accountant at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), a multinational company considered one of the Big Four accounting firms.

“If she’s first-gen and also graduated from Bridgewater, who’s to say I can’t do it as well?" said Glendys, who used that as motivation to apply for a two-year auditing internship at PwC. “I didn’t expect much, so when I got in, I couldn’t believe it.”

Glendys, an accounting and finance major and management minor, is one of several 91��Ƶ students interning at PwC. She is working on client projects by helping ensure bookkeeping is in order and free of fraud. Glendys also completed a tax internship at Nash CPAs in Norwood, her hometown.

As she transitions from student to professional, Glendys brings a solid background in financial terminology and processes from her classes, and strong teamwork and leadership skills from her extracurricular involvement.

“Everything I’m learning now is going to show up in the future, not only the accounting aspect,” said Glendys, who is president of the Latine Student Alliance and vice president of the Accounting and Finance Club. “Running clubs has taught me to work in groups.”

Through the Latin Student Alliance, Glendys helps organize campuswide cultural festivals and events. Club members became her close friends, and the organization offers a safe space that makes 91��Ƶ feel like home, she said.

She praised all of the accounting and finance professors for their support within and outside the classroom. Her advisor, Joseph D’Adamo, is a consistent source of career advice, while Donna Abelli offered Glendys a job as a peer leader for introductory accounting classes. Dr. Mark Crowley has been a valued mentor since her first year.

“He’s been one of my biggest motivators,” she said. “He has been the person who tells me I can do anything.”

Crowley praised Glendys as a well-rounded student with extensive accomplishments, including earning several accounting scholarships.

“Glendys is an excellent student and extraordinary contributor to the 91��Ƶ community,” he said.

Glendys credits 91��Ƶ with providing the supportive environment in which she has flourished.

“Bridgewater has been great,” she said. “It has given me the opportunity to grow in all areas — academically, professionally, and socially.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Bridgewater has been great. It has given me the opportunity to grow in all areas — academically, professionally, and socially.

Glendys Bonilla, ’27

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91��Ƶ Students Gain Hands-on Experience Through Co-ops

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 20:36:58 +0000

91��Ƶ Students Gain Hands-on Experience Through Co-ops BBENSON@bridgew.edu Tue, 06/23/2026 - 16:36

Program connects students with local and global employers

June 24, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

Many workers spend their entire careers seeking a dream employer. Dillon McCarthy, ’28, is realizing that opportunity while he is still in college.

In the fall, Dillon will begin a co-op at Delta Air Lines’ Atlanta headquarters, where he will help ensure flight simulators remain reliable for pilot training by coordinating their maintenance and compliance with FAA qualifications.

“This co-op creates a direct connection between my education and my career goals,” said Dillon, an aviation science major with concentrations in flight and management. “It provides an opportunity to work with one of the most respected airlines in the industry while gaining experience that supports my interests in flying, managing, and maintaining aircraft.”

Dillon is one of about a dozen juniors and seniors participating in a pilot program that offers co-op opportunities through 91��Ƶ. Co-ops are full-time work opportunities that offer more intensive experiences than internships, which are typically part-time.

“A co-op gives our students practical, real experience in their field,” said Diane Bell, vice president of outreach and engagement. “Students can answer that question, ‘What experience do you have?’”

Rylee Andrews, ’27, who is helping run Massachusetts Sen. Dylan Fernandes’ social media channels through a summertime co-op, appreciates the professional growth.

Rylee, who interned for the senator last summer, has more duties this year. She is growing her network and gaining a stronger understanding of the responsibilities of communications work.

“It’s an absolutely amazing opportunity,” the public relations major and marketing minor said. “To be part of the pilot year is such a big deal. I hope more students realize all of the opportunities we have.”

To support the pilot program, the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education awarded 91��Ƶ $20,000, which the university is using to make its co-op program distinctive. 91��Ƶ students will earn academic credit, be guided by faculty mentors and a career advisor, and receive funding to buy professional clothing or otherwise ease the transition into a co-op.

“Typically, a student has no connection to faculty and is pretty disconnected to the university (while on a co-op),” Bell said. “We want our students to stay connected to 91��Ƶ.”

Corey Taverna, ’27, is working this summer with Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, where he will serve on the run crew for the organization’s outdoor performances on Boston Common. Run crew members are backstage technical workers who handle props, lighting, and a host of other tasks that ensure each performance goes smoothly.

“I’m going to already have some professional experience under my belt and be ready to move forward (in my career),” they said.

Corey, a theater arts major and music minor, credited Miranda Giurleo, an associate professor of theater, with encouraging him to pursue a co-op. Dillon praised the mentorship of Michael Welch, an associate professor of aviation science and former Delta employee.

“Hearing about his experiences with the company, the professional relationships he built, and seeing how much he genuinely cares about his students’ success gave me the confidence to pursue the co-op,” Dillon said. “His guidance played a significant role in helping me believe this opportunity was within reach.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

This co-op creates a direct connection between my education and my career goals. It provides an opportunity to work with one of the most respected airlines in the industry while gaining experience that supports my interests in flying, managing, and maintaining aircraft.

Dillon McCarthy, ’28

Aviation science major

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91��Ƶ Graduate Students Gain Hands-on Experience Producing New Magazine

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:25:43 +0000

91��Ƶ Graduate Students Gain Hands-on Experience Producing New Magazine BBENSON@bridgew.edu Mon, 04/13/2026 - 16:25

Nerve to Write showcases disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent writers and artists

April 14, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

As Kaitlynn Davis, ’24, G’27, prepares for a career in publishing, she is already doing the work as an intern, helping launch a new magazine dedicated to amplifying voices often left out of the literary conversation.

Kaitlynn is one of five 91��Ƶ English graduate students interning for Nerve to Write, a digital publication that showcases the work of disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent writers and artists.

“This internship has helped me with my future career prospects and feeling confident in going forth in the literary and magazine editing field,” they said. “This has acted as a stepping stone for me to see what the environment is like and has given me the confidence to know that I can do this.”

While Nerve to Write is not a 91��Ƶ publication, its staff has numerous connections to the university. In addition to the five interns, English professor Sarah Fawn Montgomery serves as editor-in-chief, while English alumna Mialise Carney, ’19, is assistant editor.

“I was really excited to be able to work with Nerve to Write and maintain that connection with Bridgewater State,” said Carney, who credits 91��Ƶ with laying the foundation that propelled her into the creative writing and literature PhD program at the University of Cincinnati. “Bridgewater State was a really meaningful part of my trajectory. I’m excited to give back.”

With experience in publishing and disability studies, Dr. Montgomery aims to create a magazine that serves writers whose voices are often omitted or limited to discussing their disabilities. The inaugural issue received hundreds of submissions of poetry, nonfiction, fiction, art and hybrid works.

“This seemed to be a gap in the publishing landscape,” said Montgomery, noting the magazine is quickly building a new literary community. “We wanted to fill in that gap.”

Interns are involved in numerous facets of the production process, including reviewing submissions, interviewing featured authors and collaborating with other publishers.

The staff hopes readers learn to appreciate disabilities as something to be celebrated rather than as a hindrance. Working on the magazine has already left a lasting impression on them.

“It gives me a nuanced perspective and a new way to look at it that I might have not known if I didn’t do this internship,” said Cassidy Rousseau, G’27, a high school English teacher. “It really helped me slow down and reflect on my own teaching practices and what I can do to help my students.”

Intern Emily Lapomardo has also taken the message to heart. Emily, who works with special education high school students, uses her newfound perspective in her interactions.

“It’s changed how I engage in conversations,” she said, adding she now tells students, “You are not limited by this. This is something to be celebrated.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

This internship has helped me with my future career prospects and feeling confident in going forth in the literary and magazine editing field. This has acted as a stepping stone for me to see what the environment is like and has given me the confidence to know that I can do this.

Kaitlynn Davis, ’24, G’27

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Partnership Helps 91��Ƶ Students Pursue Health Care Careers

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:30:40 +0000

Partnership Helps 91��Ƶ Students Pursue Health Care Careers BBENSON@bridgew.edu Mon, 12/01/2025 - 14:30

New agreement with MGH’s Institute of Health Professions provides pathway to advanced degrees

December 4, 2025

Brian Benson, G’23

With more than 13,000 vacant positions in Massachusetts hospitals, the Bay State faces a significant shortage of qualified health care professionals. To help meet that need, 91��Ƶ is offering a streamlined pathway for students to pursue these critical careers.

91��Ƶ recently signed an agreement with Massachusetts General Hospital’s Institute of Health Professions (IHP), which offers degrees that complement a Bridgewater education.

“This is a very, very exciting moment for 91��Ƶ,” 91��Ƶ President Frederick W. Clark Jr.,’83, said. “It’s a great opportunity for our students and I think it’s a great opportunity for not just the hospital but the commonwealth as well.”

The five-year pact provides qualified 91��Ƶ students with guaranteed admission to designated IHP programs, including nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology, health administration, health sciences and health care data analytics. Students can also qualify for application fee waivers, tuition reduction/scholarships and personalized academic advising.

While the health care industry has made staffing progress, gaps remain in nursing and other patient-facing occupations, according to a recent report from the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association that identified 13,600 vacancies in key hospital roles.

“We know how critical the health professions shortage is right now. It’s only going to get worse with the aging of the population,” said IHP President Paula Milone-Nuzzo. “We are doing an immense service for the communities that we serve. I am so thrilled that we can do this together.”

91��Ƶ and IHP share values of inclusivity, innovation and a focus on transforming lives, Dr. Milone-Nuzzo said.

With a liberal arts background, Bridgewater students bring intangible skills that are essential to building strong relationships between patients and health care providers, Dr. Marci Swede, dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences, said of another synergy between the two institutions.

“This partnership strengthens our longstanding commitment to student opportunity and to preparing the region’s future health care professionals,” Clark said.

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

This is a very, very exciting moment for 91��Ƶ. It’s a great opportunity for our students and I think it’s a great opportunity for not just the hospital but the commonwealth as well.

President Frederick W. Clark Jr.,’83

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Health Sciences

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Photo by Charlie Peters, G’20

Real Business

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:43:03 +0000

Real Business BBENSON@bridgew.edu Thu, 11/20/2025 - 09:43

CUBEs initiative brings hands-on experience to over 1,500 students

November 20, 2025

Brian Benson, G’23

When Kara McManus, G’26, pursues a career as a government or nonprofit administrator, she will inevitably partner with various consultants. Thanks to an innovative 91��Ƶ initiative, she’ll do so with lots of first-hand experience.

This semester, Kara and her classmates in a nonprofit administration course are helping SouthCoast Community Foundation build a database of nonprofits in the region.

“This was my first time working on a client-based project,” said Kara, who noted the broad scope was initially overwhelming. “This was the first experience I had trying to ask the right questions on how we can narrow this down but still provide a service that is going to be beneficial.”

Their project, which is part of 91��Ƶ’s Collaborative University Business Experiences (CUBEs) program, will help the foundation assess the philanthropic needs in the region and better distribute funding.

Launched in 2020 by the Ricciardi College of Business, CUBEs pairs classes with organizations for semester-long projects. The initiative has expanded across the university, having now involved more than 1,500 students and more than 100 projects.

“We’ve seen growth in skills that help students in the job market, and they are more engaged in the classroom,” said Dr. Stephanie Jacobsen, an associate professor of marketing and a CUBEs coordinator. “They don’t just show up, watch a lecture and go home. They know they have a hands-on, real project.”

The program benefits both businesses and nonprofits who receive assistance with a project they may not be able to complete in-house.

“It definitely connects to Bridgewater’s commitment to the community as well as our commitment to our students,” said Dr. Seth Meyer, an associate professor of political science and a CUBEs coordinator. “It’s not a zero-sum game.

CUBEs projects provide a safe space where students can take risks and learn from mistakes, said Meyer, who teaches the nonprofit administration class.

Meyer’s students said this style of learning is emblematic of the public administration program, where professors challenge students to connect academic theories to practical applications.

“In every single course, you have to take the analytical and textbook material and go into your career and apply them in ways that are beneficial,” Kara said. “I think the MPA program in general does a really good job of that.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

In every single course, you have to take the analytical and textbook material and go into your career and apply them in ways that are beneficial. I think the MPA program in general does a really good job of that.

Kara McManus, G’26

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CUBEs

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Launching a Career

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 20:02:06 +0000

Launching a Career BBENSON@bridgew.edu Mon, 10/27/2025 - 16:02

91��Ƶ program helps juniors land internships

October 28, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

As a first-generation college student, Diamond Hunter, ’26, is forging a new path for her family as she pursues a college degree.

Knowing she needed guidance and support from experts, Diamond participated in 91��Ƶ’s first Junior Career Launch program. Run by the Career Services and Internships office, the initiative offered hands-on workshops, guest speakers and resources to prepare students to seek internships.

“It made a huge difference,” said Diamond, a psychology major from the Dorchester section of Boston. “It gave me new experiences. I didn’t know how to find an internship, and this helped me. It made me very aware of how I could become a better version of myself and be successful.”

Diamond completed an internship with Central Boston Elder Services. She participated in community outreach to elderly residents to make sure their basic needs, including the medications they need, were met.

“It was very rewarding because I was able to make a difference in someone else's life,” she said.

Diamond is one of 16 students who participated in the career launch. Eleven of those students landed an internship this past summer, with several more securing positions in the fall. Students wrote and revised their resumes, participated in mock interviews and even attended an etiquette dinner that reinforced manners for dining at professional conferences and formal occasions.

Juniors are ideal for this program because they have begun taking advanced courses within their major and bring other experience such as undergraduate research or relevant part-time work to the table, said Katie Vagen, associate director of internships and career development.

“By junior year, they have a little more clarity on their career interests,” she said. “They’re more competitive in the internship search process.”

Waleed Jabak, ’26, used skills from Junior Career Launch to become an intern at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, where the photonics major assisted with laser alignment and other technical processes that contributed to the facility’s cutting-edge research.

“I wanted to land an internship during the summer, and I knew this was a great opportunity that would help me achieve that goal,” he said.

The internship helped him hone skills within his major and positioned him well for the real world, post-graduation.

“The experience was very important,” he said. “It’s really the first step (toward securing employment after graduation).”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

It made a huge difference. It gave me new experiences. I didn’t know how to find an internship, and this helped me. It made me very aware of how I could become a better version of myself and be successful.

Diamond Hunter, ’26

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Lighting It Up

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 15:14:12 +0000

Lighting It Up BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 07/02/2025 - 11:14

Senior interns with WaterFire Providence

July 3, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

Nora Sperling, ’26, has always enjoyed visiting Providence for WaterFire, when on selected nights throughout the summer the city converts its three downtown rivers into a mesmerizing display featuring more than 80 glowing bonfires.

This summer, Nora is experiencing the famous art installation in a whole new way.

The 91��Ƶ communication major and marketing minor is a development intern with WaterFire Providence, the nonprofit that organizes the experience and operates an arts center.

“I realized it really aligned with what I wanted to do,” said Nora, who is from Berkley and aspires to work in public relations and marketing. “This is going to give me a lot of insights as well as experience.”

Nora helps the organization secure sponsorships and assists with event preparations for lightings. She is putting her writing and design skills to use by developing promotional materials and communicating with prospective sponsors.

“I’m definitely using my creative side,” she said. “I’ve taken digital marketing classes at Bridgewater and been able to use those skillsets to create things for WaterFire.”

This is a momentous summer for WaterFire, which is celebrating the 30th anniversary of lightings that have captivated more than 10 million visitors. The multi-sensory experience blends flickering firelight on Providence’s arched bridges with the fragrance of wood smoke and the sounds of music.

Nora is now part of the team that makes this a must-see Providence attraction. She has even ridden in a boat during a lighting, an experience she once only imagined.

Nora learned about the internship through an email from 91��Ƶ’s Department of Communication, a seemingly simple gesture that she said is emblematic of the culture she experiences at Bridgewater State.

“Something I’ve noticed about Bridgewater is the sense of community,” she said. “Everyone tries to help each other. Especially in the communication department, every professor tries to prepare you for life outside of Bridgewater.”

While Nora’s internship dovetails nicely with her professional ambitions, she encourages fellow students to be open to trying something new.

“Go for it. 100 percent,” she said of pursuing an internship. “Even if you don’t think it completely aligns with what you want to do in the future, do it. Experience is experience.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Something I’ve noticed about Bridgewater is the sense of community. Everyone tries to help each other. Especially in the communication department, every professor tries to prepare you for life outside of Bridgewater.

Nora Sperling, ’26

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‘Thinking About the Future’

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:09:18 +0000

‘Thinking About the Future’ BBENSON@bridgew.edu Thu, 04/24/2025 - 09:09

Security Operations Center opens and is a boon to region and students

April 24, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

Luis Marin and Brian Grier, both members of the class of 2026, are on the front lines of a battle to protect organizations from potentially devastating cyber-attacks. And they are doing this essential work right from the 91��Ƶ campus.

Luis and Brian intern at 91��Ƶ’s Security Operations Center (SOC). The SOC provides real-time threat monitoring as well as consulting services to organizations throughout Massachusetts.

“It feels like real life,” said Brian, a cybersecurity major and Asian studies minor from Milford. “This is not a simulation. We have real clients. Every day of the week we’re solving problems that they deal with.”

The center is part of a comprehensive program to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. 91��Ƶ also boasts a state-of-the-art cyber range where students and professionals train using simulated scenarios. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the rapidly growing field.

The SOC, which opened its permanent space on campus in December, is co-sponsored by 91��Ƶ and the nonprofit CyberTrust Massachusetts, which strives to grow and diversify the cyber workforce.

“By integrating students directly into real-world cybersecurity operations in a real SOC environment, we’re not only enhancing their educational experience but also contributing significantly to the security and well-being of our local communities,” said 91��Ƶ President Frederick W. Clark Jr., ’83.

CyberTrust Massachusetts hires students like Luis and Brian for paid internships where they work alongside professionals in serving the SOC’s clients. Those clients currently include an array of municipalities and school districts, with plans to expand to other sectors.

91��Ƶ is a strong partner in this effort because of its growing cybersecurity curriculum, said Jeff Cassidy, director of cybersecurity operations for CyberTrust Massachusetts.

“We’re glad to support what they’re learning in the classroom with hands-on experience,” Cassidy said.

That is critical to landing a job after graduation, said Brian, who progressed into a more advanced internship where he is helping mentor new interns.

It is also rewarding to make a positive impact in the community while still in school, Luis said.

Luis, who completed an associate degree in cybersecurity from Bunker Hill Community College, transferred to Bridgewater State specifically to enroll in the cybersecurity major.

“91��Ƶ is thinking about the future,” he said. “They see where the technology is going. With this program, they are preparing so many professionals.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

91��Ƶ is thinking about the future. They see where the technology is going. With this program, they are preparing so many professionals.

Luis Marin, '26

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Cybersecurity

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Photo by Charlie Peters, G'20

First and Lasting Impressions

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 20:31:00 +0000

First and Lasting Impressions BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 04/09/2025 - 16:31

Senior looks back fondly on her time on campus

April 10, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

When Savannah Lavigne, ’25, first set foot on the Bridgewater State campus, she had a feeling it would become her home. Now preparing to graduate, Savannah confidently says that initial gut reaction proved correct.

“Bridgewater has had an immense impact on me,” the political science major and marketing minor said. “I’ve made so many incredible connections and lifelong friendships. I’ve been able to find out what I want to study. I’ve learned a lot about myself as a person and feel like I’ve matured a lot.”

Savannah grew up with her parents in Hong Kong, but knew she wanted an American college experience. While going to school thousands of miles away from home seemed scary at first, Savannah has family in Connecticut and thrived in the supportive community she found at 91��Ƶ.

“I really admire how American schools value well-rounded students,” she said. “Developing soft and hard skills and developing as a person is so valuable. Bridgewater taught me a lot.”

Savannah most remembers all the opportunities she has had as a Bear. She studied abroad in England and brought Asian culture to campus by helping lead the Asian Student Union.

As an intern with the nonprofit Inclusive America, she helped advocate in Washington, D.C., for stronger anti-harassment and discrimination policies at the State Department. At 91��Ƶ, Savannah discovered a passion for international relations that she hopes to pursue in graduate school and through a career as a diplomat or policy analyst.

In the classroom, Savannah stands out as a highly engaged student, said Dr. Chien Yu. Savannah is in his international marketing course, and the professor worked with her while advising the Asian Student Union.

“She actively participates in class and talks about her opinions on issues and current events,” said Yu, a professor of management and marketing. “Her points are sharp and great.”

Yu even nominated her to become a Green Room Scholar at WorldBoston, a nonprofit that aims to spark engagement around international affairs. Savannah helped run an event about the connections between science and diplomacy and contributed to the organization’s blog.

She appreciates the support of Yu, Dr. Sidita Kushi, an assistant professor of political science, and the many other faculty members who left indelible marks on her development as a student.

“I’ve had amazing professors,” Savannah said. “They have truly been academic and personal guideposts for me.”

She has also given back to 91��Ƶ by helping students acclimate to campus as a resident assistant in Scott Hall and an orientation leader.

She encourages new 91��Ƶ students to become involved and socialize. Savanah met as many people as she could during her first year, and those connections helped shape her undergraduate experience.

“Listen to your heart. That’s what I did” she said, adding: “I knew Bridgewater was where I wanted to be.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Bridgewater has had an immense impact on me. I’ve made so many incredible connections and lifelong friendships. I’ve been able to find out what I want to study. I’ve learned a lot about myself as a person and feel like I’ve matured a lot.

Savannah Lavigne, ’25

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Student Spotlight

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Business Opportunities

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:24:23 +0000

Business Opportunities BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 04/02/2025 - 10:24

New campus organization prepares students for the working world

April 3, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

In high school, Sophia Pinarreta, ’27, was heavily involved in the Business Professionals of America as she expanded her workplace skills and thrived at conferences and competitions. She didn’t want the experience to end when she became a 91��Ƶ student.

Bridgewater State didn’t have a formal connection to the organization, but Sophia took matters into her own hands: The political science and criminal justice major from Taunton started Bridgewater’s own BPA chapter.

“91��Ƶ is so good about allowing students to flourish and create the things they want to create,” said Sophia, who praised funding and support from the Student Government Association and other offices.

The new chapter is already achieving success. All 10 of its members excelled at a state leadership conference and qualified for a national competition in May in Orlando. Many were never involved in BPA in high school.

“I’ve never done anything like this before,” said Gillian Misner, ’27, a psychology major from Townsend, who earned first place in ethics/professionalism and human resources events. “I found the events were really helpful and related to a lot of things I’m learning in my major.”

Competitions require students to respond to hypothetical scenarios, take exams and produce videos and podcasts, among an array of other challenges. Students are judged by business leaders and attend workshops that facilitate networking and skill building.

91��Ƶ started a chapter at a time when postsecondary membership is rapidly growing, said Makenzi Tiberii, ’17, who studied business management at Bridgewater State and is now the executive director of BPA’s Massachusetts organization.

“When I heard Sophia was looking to create a chapter, it was really a full-circle moment. I literally cried,” Tiberii said. “I was a shy little student who didn’t even know what they wanted to do in college and had a great experience at 91��Ƶ. Now I’m helping current students.”

Tiberii thrived with small class sizes in the Honors Program and the many opportunities to become involved on campus. She appreciated the mentorship of Associate Professor Todd Harris, who is now the advisor for 91��Ƶ’s BPA chapter.

She is excited to see 91��Ƶ students perform so well at the state level, especially in the chapter’s first year.

The students are focused on preparing for the national competition and raising funds to travel to Florida. And they’re eager to see the chapter grow in the years ahead.

“Everyone can find something they’re interested in and that’s helpful in their career,” Gillian said of a reason to join the club. “There’s definitely a space for any major and any student.”

Sofia, who was part of a team placing first in podcast production, added: “It’s a great way to get your feet wet and get involved at 91��Ƶ.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

91��Ƶ is so good about allowing students to flourish and create the things they want to create.

Sophia Pinarreta, ’27

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Clubs on Campus

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