I graduated from Manchester Memorial in 2013, and I knew coming straight out of high school I wanted to attend a college close to home. There were a few universities I had in mind, the University of New Hampshire's campus in Manchester being one of them. I distinctly remember visiting campus for the first time and taking a tour of the building. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, and the staff and students seemed so enthusiastic about my interest in the school. Stepping foot out of there that day, I knew UNH Manchester was for me.
The curriculum here is great. I’m always challenged to push myself. No matter what struggles I may face, there are always people and resources here to help me reach my goals.
As a biological sciences major looking to become a pharmacist, there are so many ways UNH Manchester has helped me feel prepared about my future. From resume help, to the many clubs, to graduate school speakers, they have even encouraged me in my passion for writing and have helped me take on a professional writing minor. What is most important about this is that UNH Manchester has made me feel confident about my post-university endeavors.
The small and intimate classes have been incredibly beneficial for me. Being able to have a close relationship with all your classmates and professors is invaluable. Here I am not just a number, and I immediately felt this from day one. I have a voice and I can make an impact.
I think there are a lot of misconceptions about this campus because it is a commuter campus, but there is an incredible amount of support and the community here is so strong. I never thought I would be one to get so involved on campus. But it is almost hard not to get involved because there are so many opportunities, and getting involved comes practically naturally. The end of my freshman year I applied to a tutoring position. I am now a writing tutor and have learned so much from the many opportunities I have had working with a variety of students. Sophomore year I took the position as a Peer Assistant Leader (PAL) and have since worked with a variety of first year and transfer students. I absolutely love being able to support and be a helping hand to students and watching them grow. To be that familiar face and be part of a team that helped me so much during my freshman year is rewarding beyond words. Every person I have had the privilege of working with throughout my time as a mentor has been incredibly amazing and supportive.
Through my training, workshops, and everything I have learned from my peers and different faculty members has helped me grow into a much more strong and confident leader. I think it says a lot about the environment at UNH Manchester to say that where I once wasn’t even considering getting involved, I am enthusiastically seeking new ways in which I can actively expand my involvement. I have been given so many wonderful opportunities and the journey so far has been nothing but amazing.
Written by Jenna Greer '17, Biological Sciences
