Salem State University

Salem State University is located in Salem, Mass., a hip, historic seacoast town. We provide a high quality, student-centered education for a diverse community of learners. This is the official Tumblr for Salem State University.

[salemstateuniversity]

2017 A Year as Told By Gifs

2017 is coming to a close and what better way to round up the last twelve months than with twelve gifs.

January: Vikings Honored President Meservey

A role model to many members of the Salem State community, President Meservey left a legacy that includes achieving university status, increasing graduation rates, and adding state-of-the-art student spaces to campus. We miss you, Pat!

February: Vikings Shared the Love Using #VikingValentine

We asked for your SSU love stories and you did not disappoint. The SSU social team was flooded with stories ranging from forbidden RA love affairs to best friendships. Thanks for making us blush!

March: Vikings Celebrated a Second Straight MASCAC Title

Back-to-back champs! Our men’s hockey team scored big with a 4-3 victory over top seed Plymouth State to achieve the MASCAC title! Let’s go for one more!

April: Vikings Rose the Curtain at the Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts

We laughed, we cried, as the gorgeous new Sophia Gordon building rose its curtains for opening night. What was your favorite show of 2017?

May: Vikings Flew the Nest

It was the most bittersweet time of year as our Vikings shipped off to their next big adventure. We’re not crying, you’re crying!

June: Vikings Welcomed John Keenan Upon Approval as Salem State University’s 14th President

Salem State welcomed the new prez and in turn a new era at SSU. Welcome, John!

July: Vikings Watched Winter Island Become Amity Island

#CreativeSalem transformed winter island into Amity Island for a drive-in style showing of Jaws. We can’t wait for next year’s drive-in.

August: Vikings Had a Total Eclipse of the Heart

The SSU community gathered together to catch a glimpse of a total solar eclipse, dorky glasses and all. Catch it again in 2024.

September: Vikings Began Their Salem State Journey

Like every September before it, nervous excitement fell on campus as new Vikings embarked on their first day at SSU. We can’t wait to see what great things you’ll accomplish.

October: Vikings Stood Up Against Hate

Salem State students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members came together for a discussion on advancing inclusiveness and preventing acts of bias and hate. Thank you to everyone who continues the conversation.

November: Vikings Rocked the Vote

Vikings honor one of our most cherished rights by making their voices heard. Did you vote?

December: Vikings Gave Back

From stuffing cruisers with toys to can drives and creating beds, the community came together to give the best of all, the gift of giving back. Make every season the season of giving.

Thanks for strolling down memory lane with us, Vikings. See you in the new year!

[salemstateuniversity]

100 Things To Do At SSU Before You Graduate ‘18

Check off your to-do list with #SSU100things. How many have you accomplished? 

1.     Spend Halloween night downtown

2.     Walk or ride the whole bike path

3.     Visit Castle Rock

4.    Get a large pizza from the Engine House

5.    Spend Taco Tuesday at the Wolf

6.    Go to the arcade and walk around the Willows

7.    Get a sundae from Treadwell’s

8.    Hold an internship

9.    Attend the Annual Career Fair

10.  Pull an all-nighter in the Berry Library

11.  Go on an Alternative Spring Break Trip

12.  Read the Salem State Log

13.  Join a student organization

14.  See a production in the new Sophia Gordon Center

15.  Ice skate in the O’Keefe Center Rink

16.  Catch a movie at the Cinema Salem

17.  Dance the night away at Program Council’s Winter Ball

18.  Take a dip in the O’Keefe Pool during open swim hours

19.  Try the sandwiches in the Bertolon Café… you can thank us later

20.  Attend a dinner sponsored by one or more of the student cultural groups

21.  Visit the Winfisky Art Gallery

22.  Attend an open mic night

23.  Take part in the Inauguration of John Keenan, Salem State’s 14th President

24.  Listen to WMWM Radio

25.  Be inspired and attend the Women’s Leadership Conference

26.  Go to wing night at Sidelines

27.  Participate in the Domino’s Challenge at the basketball game

28.  Declare a minor

29.  Visit Pickering Wharf on a nice day

30. Get a scenic Insta pic of your favorite spot on campus

31.  Have a homework/study session over coffee in Starbucks Café

32.  Play a game in the quad between Atlantic and Marsh Halls

33.  Take a ghost tour

34.  Use your Clipper Card off campus

35.  Go dancing at Murphy’s

36.  Go to a Red Sox game

37.  Attend a glow-in-the-dark event

38.  Have breakfast at the Salem Diner

39.  Attend a fitness class at Gassett

40.  Visit all the residence halls

41.  Cheer on the sidelines at your favorite Viking sport game

42.  Trade up studying, for late night eggs and bacon at the Midnight Breakfast

43.  See the stars from the top of Meier Hall in the Collins Observatory

44.  Find and walk through the underground tunnel at North Campus

45.  Help out at SGA’s Haunted Happenings

46.  Make the Deans List

47.  Withstand the line at Dunkin’ Donuts in Meier Hall

48.  Listen to jazz at Gulu-Gulu Café... P.S The crepes are a must 

49.  Try a unique pizza at the Flying Saucer  

50.  Build your resume with the help of Career Services

51.  Spend your night out at Rockafellas

52.  Visit the House of Seven Gables

53.  Play pool at the Village Tavern

54.  Come to Homecoming Weekend

55.  Visit all the historical museums downtown

56.  Walk around Forest River Park

57.  Walk all night long for Relay for Life

58.  Get a job on campus

59.  Attend a Greek Life event

60.  Take the weekend shuttle to the mall

61.  Study aboard or take part in the student exchange program

62.  Take a picture with Superfan

63.  Become a leader on campus

64.  Take part in a community service project

65.  Attend a Student Involvement Fair

66.  Buy Salem State gear at the bookstore

67.  Work out in the Gassett Fitness Center

68.  Take a walk along the marsh

69.  Learn professional manners at the etiquette dinner

70.  Visit the shops in Vinnin Square

71.  Have an apple cider donut at the Topsfield Fair

72.  Attend as many school events as possible

73.  Take part in Senior Week

74.  Try a latte from Jaho downtown

75.  Make a friend from another state or country

76.  Brave the line at Bagel World

77.  Visit Eagle Hill on South Campus

78.  Get ice cream delivered to your doorstep from Kushco Bistro

79.  Do homework on a nice day in the library quad

80.  Ride the Viking Shuttle Bus

81.  Attend a “Meet Your Major” event

82.  Attend a Grandma’s Third Leg show

83.  Volunteer on a Community Service Day

84.  Go to a ‘Think Pink” sporting event

85.  Find a parking space…may the odds be ever in your favor

86. Soak in the sun at Marblehead’s Chandler-Hovey Park

87.  Visit the courtyard in the middle of Meier Hall

88.  Take part in Takeover Tuesday on Salem State Snapchat

89.  Take a picture with the “Bewitched” statue in downtown Salem

90.  Treat yourself to chocolate at Salem So Sweet Festival in February

91.  Grab your jar of quarters and play the arcade games at the Bit Bar

92.  Walk downtown for lunch

93. Help a future Viking reach their dreams by donating to the Senior Class Gift

94.  Take the commuter rail into Boston for the day

95.  Have a late night cookie at Goodnight Fatty

96.  Visit the PEM Museum. Pro tip: Free with student ID

97.  Take a selfie with the Viking statue

98.  Thank a professor for helping you reach for your dreams

99.  Wear your cap and gown with pride

100. Walk across the stage at the #SalemState18 Commencement with your degree in hand!

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#VikingValentine ‘17

Valentine’s Day is best spent with loved ones. From finding true love over a cup of coffee or discovering lifelong friendships here on campus, our #VikingValentines are oh-so-sweet. Thank you for sharing your stories with us!

“Thom and I met our sophomore year at Salem State. We became quick friends, and after a year of friendship, we began to date. Four years later we are happily married! We got married on December 3, 2016.” - Sarah C. (Pictured below)

“I met Michael M. a very long time ago, in 1990. Back then, Meier Hall had a smoker's lounge with tables and vending machines. There was a very old-fashioned machine that dispensed terrible coffee into a paper cup like you see in old crime dramas. I hear you have a Dunkin' Donuts there now! Anyway, I was trying to get the machine to take a dollar for some of this revolting beverage, and I wasn't having much luck. Mike pointed out to me that I was putting the dollar in upside-down. I thought he was cute, I bought him a cup of coffee too, and the rest is history. We were married on September 29, 2000.”      -Peggy M. ’94 (Pictured below)

“We both transferred to Salem State in 2004. We met while both working at Sidelines while paying ourselves through school. He used to give me rides back home to Connecticut where both our families lived. After we graduated, we kept in touch and started dating. We will be married one year come this June!”           -Andrea W. (Pictured Below)

"I met this wonderful woman my first year in college in Bowditch Hall. She was my academic mentor, and we instantly became close friends. We started dating at the end of my first year, and then I was lucky enough to start calling her my wife in September of 2015. I couldn't ask for a closer friend and partner"            -Mike R. (Pictured Below)

“We met not even two weeks after the beginning of our freshman year. I lived in Bowditch Hall and he was a commuter, but it turned out that we had mutual friends due to involvement in different groups and such. When he threw his arm around my shoulder and asked, "would you do me the honor of being my girlfriend?" there was no hesitation when I told him yes! This was on November 2, 2012, and we're still going strong!” -Cheryl G & Chris L ‘16 (Pictured Below)

Valentine's Day is best spent with lifelong friends. Joyce R. and Susan M. have worked together at Salem State for over 30 years. “When we started, there were no computers. Today, we can finish each other’s sentences.” Thank you for sharing your story and for your combined 61 years of love for SSU! (Pictured Below, Then vs Now)

“We met in the summer of 2015 while working for Residence Life as Summer Conference Assistants. After spending a semester and a summer 4,500 miles away from each other thanks to the National Student Exchange, we were reunited in Alaska, where we camped in Denali National Park! We're now just past our one year mark, and we couldn't be happier. We look forward to more summers in Alaska!” -Matt B. and Sarah R. (Pictured Below)

“My husband Alex and I met in a 17th Century British Poetry class taught by Dr. Michael Prochilo. We were both in the English M.A. program, and he took me to Author’s Ridge in Concord’s Sleepy Hollow Cemetery for our first date. We were engaged three weeks later and married on May 11, 1996. It was a true honor to have Dr. Joseph T. Flibbert there to help us celebrate the wedding and reception that followed at The House of the Seven Gables. I’m eternally grateful to Salem State for that joyful introduction that led to 20+ years of wedded bliss and three wonderful children (17, 14 and 6).” -Brandy and Alex C. (Pictured Below)

“I met my husband at Salem State when I was an RA on Central Campus during my junior year in 2006. He was a transfer student moving in as an early resident. I was working the front desk on early move-in day and I had an instant crush. We caught each other in the hallway a few times and just started talking. We ended up dating throughout college, eventually moving in together after school and got married on August 8, 2015. We are expecting our first baby this coming April 2017.” -Brendon and Sarah B. (Pictured Below)

“We met at SSU in 2009.  Both of us were captains of the lacrosse teams and we met in the trainer’s room while we were both getting treatment for injuries.  We graduated in 2012 and got married in 2014.″ -Matt and Kaitlyn C.(Pictured Below)

“I met my husband wandering around the 3rd floor of bowditch hall our freshman year (2001). We were "thick as thieves" for a couple more years, "Ride or die" friends. Until one day my best friend wasn't simply my best friend anymore. He was my love.  Three months after "dating" we were engaged. Two years later, we were married. (We were still at Salem State when we were engaged! Diploma and engagement ring were my best gifts. Now, nine years later we’ve had a ton of laughs, we own a house in Salem and we’ve never looked back. He supported me through my MSW at the school and loves the fact that I'm now an adjunct for the school where my "buddy" became my "hubby".”  -Matt and Jessica P. (Pictured Below)

“We were neighbors our freshman year in Bowditch Hall, became best friends, and eventually started dating. We have now been dating for 3 years and are so happy. We have Salem State housing to thank for that!” -Lee Ann (Pictured Below)

Rajan (Nepal) and I (Germany) met in 2007 at the Center for International Education in the little green house. We became a couple the cultural night event in 2008. We had our son Rylan in 2012. We got married in May 2013 and were blessed with our baby girl, Safina, last April. -Sabrina S.(Pictured Below) 

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“I wanted to explore what the east coast had to offer and SSU seemed like the perfect fit.” -Melissa Wysocki ‘17

Major: Marketing with Web Design

Current University: Salem State University

Home University: University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

What made you decide to do the national student exchange (NSE) program?

I had actually gone on NSE before, during my second year to Chico State in California. I loved the experience so much, I knew I had to do it again. This time I wanted to explore what the east coast had to offer and SSU seemed like the perfect fit. Despite being a Midwestern girl, I’ve been able to travel from the west coast to the east coast!

What led you in the direction of choosing Salem State?

SSU seemed like the perfect fit for me because of its unique marketing courses and its location. Not only is Salem filled with rich and dare I say “bewitching” history, but it really allows me to explore other areas along the east coast as well.

How are you enjoying your experience so far?

I’m loving it! Every weekend has been filled with adventure, from checking out the light-up swings in Boston to hiking Acadia National Park in Maine. Between the weekends, I’ve learned a lot from my marketing courses and have met new friends along the way. I couldn’t ask for a better experience and can’t believe that it’s almost halfway over!

Any advice you would give to someone interested in the NSE Program?

No matter how scary being away from home and out of your comfort zone can be, just do it! You’ll gain an amazing experience that I promise you won’t regret! NSE has been my favorite college experience and has provided me with so many benefits. From exploring new areas to gaining insight from a variety of courses, there is something for everyone with NSE.

Learn more about the national student exchange.

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“I couldn’t believe that I could spend a whole semester away for a fraction of the price of studying abroad.” -Rebecca Daff ‘17

Current university: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Major: Business administration with a hospitality concentration

What made you decide to do the national student exchange program?

For the past three years, I have commuted to Salem State and lived at home with my family. I always wanted to study abroad, but because it can be expensive, I never thought it would work. After hearing about the national student exchange program, I learned that I could study at one of many US schools and only pay the in-state tuition fee. I couldn’t believe that I could spend a whole semester away for a fraction of the price of studying abroad. Other than the low cost to exchange, I also decided to do the national student exchange program because I was interested in their hospitality program.  

Why did you choose the University of Nevada?

I chose to attend UNLV because I am a business major, with a concentration in hospitality, and what better place is there to study hospitality than Las Vegas? I also made my decision based on the location. I love the heat. Also, UNLV is almost three times bigger than Salem State. I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and go to a school that was very different than what I was used to.

How are you enjoying your experience so far?

My experience so far has been nothing short of amazing. I am in a lecture with 200 students for the first time. I have made so many connections within the hospitality industry and I have finally had the full “college experience” that I always wanted. Although I have only been here a month, I have made friends that I know I will have for life.

Any advice you would give to someone interested in the NSE program?

I would tell anyone who is interested in the NSE program to do it! There is nothing better than getting to travel while going to school and experiencing something new.

Learn more about the National Student Exchange.

Attend an upcoming information session.

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Ambassador Insight: Gina Kelly ‘18

Favorite SSU Class: Principles and Fundamentals of Special Education- It really opened my eyes to just how complex the role of an educator really is!

Best food on campus: Mac and Cheese bar at Marsh Dining Hall

Salem’s best kept secret: We have the most beautiful views of the sunset around campus, whether you’re on the bridge of Viking Hall, 3rd floor of the library, or the baseball field along the bike path

Favorite professor and why: Professor Patricia Bade from the course Teaching, Learning, and Assessment. Her genuine passion for making teaching exciting shined throughout every lesson. She inspires me to be the most understanding, accommodating, and authentic teacher possible in the future.

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Ambassador Insight: Nate Richards ‘17

Why did you decide to go to SSU: As a transfer student, I searched for a university that had a commitment to diversity, as well as a thriving on-campus community. I chose Salem State because it fit all of my criteria. I knew with the resources available to me, I could truly make a difference in the community.

Favorite student organization: That's a tough one! I'd have to say program council. As one of the biggest student organizations on campus, program council works tirelessly to put on amazing events on campus such as, build-a-buddy, big prize bingo and our GrooveBoston Cohesion EDM show.

Best place to spend ClipperCash: Starbucks! As someone who lives on campus, I spend the majority of my time either at work, in class or at the Starbucks on campus!

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Ambassador Insight: Shelbie Barney ‘18

My advice to incoming freshman would be: Get involved! Whether it is an on-campus job, an organization, or an event, Salem State provides so many opportunities to get involved in the Viking community. I have met friends for life both through my jobs as well as in my sorority! Get out of your comfort zone and make the best of your time here!

Favorite event on campus: My favorite events at Salem State are the theatre productions! I saw Spring Awakening here and I was truly blown away by the talent and creativity.

Best study spot: I study in the study rooms in Bertolon School of Business! When the library gets busy for finals, these study rooms are hidden gems at Salem State and I love to study there with my sorority sisters.

Favorite restaurant in Salem: Village Tavern is really cool! Tuesday nights they have trivia and the staff are welcoming and awesome!

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A World of Possibilities: The Power of Being a Polyglot

Nathalie Reyes BA in World Languages and Cultures with French Concentration

A native speaker of Spanish and fluent in English, some might not expect Nathalie Reyes ‘17 to pursue a third language, French, during her time at Salem State. But if you meet Nathalie, it’s no surprise. Her passion for language and cultures is palpable. “You can connect with so many more people!” she exclaims. Growing up in the Dominican Republic and moving to the states in middle school, Nathalie quickly learned the value of being bilingual. When the time came to pursue a college degree, she decided to pick Salem State because it was around the corner from her home, but she stayed because of the faculty. “College is what you make of it and I made great relationships with my professors. They are wonderful resources.” This past fall Nathalie took her education abroad in France and was fully immersed in the culture. Her French improved drastically in those three months and she refers to her trip as one of the best experiences she’s ever had. Tragically, terrorist attacks interrupted her time in France. Luckily, Nathalie was safe and, looking back, she remembers moments of panic but the solidarity and love she felt in the following days are what stay with her. What’s next for Nathalie after graduation? She hopes to find more opportunities abroad, either teaching or achieving her master’s degree.

Fredy Rodriguez Diaz BA in World Languages and Cultures with Spanish Concentration

“Just because you speak a language natively doesn’t mean you know it,” Fredy Rodriguez Diaz ’18 eloquently explains. Speaking with Fredy, you would have no idea he could not speak English when he moved to the United States in 2012. “Now that I know English I have a key to so many places. I have the opportunity to work in different places.” At a recent election, Fredy worked with the city of Salem to help non-native speakers of English understand the voting process. He also worked with ESL students at a school in Chelsea for six months. Did we mention he translated some research documents from English to Spanish and translated consent forms for people being tested for research purposes? All this during his undergraduate career, and it has only just begun! As a native Spanish speaker, Fredy enjoys learning about the history of the language, how it is used in different countries, how it is used in society, and how it affects us all. The Spanish classes he takes defy the stereotype that they simply teach you how to speak the language. They are so much more. Fredy looks forward to continuing to impress his peers, regardless of the language they speak.

Jeff Robinson BA in World Languages and Cultures with French Concentration

“I can take five different languages and get a degree for that. The program is unlike anything anywhere else,” Jeff Robinson ‘17 praises. Jeff has certainly taken advantage of the world languages and cultures major here at Salem State. He is in advanced French and Spanish classes, intermediate level Arabic classes, and elementary level Chinese classes. In addition, he is in the ROTC and has been studying intensive Russian during the summers through grants from the government. He did a summer of Russian at Monterey in California and spent last summer in an immersion program in Estonia. He is now at the advanced level in Russian and is going back for another summer program this coming year. “The ROTC has helped me gain management experience, build confidence and think more critically in all aspects of life.” Jeff also remarks on how highly the ROTC values his ability to speak multiple languages and has rewarded him for these skills. His love for language spreads throughout his family. When he was still in high school, Jeff actually took advanced French classes with his dad at Salem State. He has also been known to use his Russian fluency to his advantage when he’s at home. “I like speaking Russian with my sister when I don’t want my parents to hear,” Jeff jokes. A regular polyglot, Jeff will certainly not be staying in one place.

Alicia Vizuet BA in World Languages with Spanish Concentration

A mother and wife, Alicia Vizuet ‘16 proudly rocks the title of nontraditional student. She earned a bachelor’s degree in world languages and cultures with a Spanish concentration. A native of Mexico, Alicia fondly thinks of her time at home, “I love Spanish. I was born in Mexico City and I was an elementary English teacher there.” Once she moved to the United States, Alicia started a bachelor’s degree program in Texas but delayed completing her degree when her daughter was born. As time progressed, Alicia moved up to the northeast and became a certified medical assistant interning at Greater Lawrence Family Health Center. During her internship, Alicia’s bilingual ability was valuable in communicating with patients. Motivated by her family, she decided to consider Salem State University, a local school she often passed in her new hometown of Salem. It was at an open house where Alicia decided to commit to the university. “Professor (Elizabeth) Blood was so welcoming to us and treated us so well [at the open house],” she recalls. So why did Alicia choose to study her native language? She was drawn to the chance to study Spanish literature and learn how to apply her skills to different careers. Her thesis was as unique as she is, focusing on the film Babel, the director of which was from her original hometown of Mexico City. Now, with her thesis behind her and degree in hand, Alicia looks forward to pursuing a master’s degree. Her family continues to encourage her to push herself and pursue her dreams.

[salemstateuniversity]

6 Summer Activities as Recommended by a 2016 Alumni

WALK AROUND DOWNTOWN

Whether you lived on campus or commuted this past school year, it’s easy to stick with what you know and stay on (or close) to campus. Upon graduating I was happy that I ventured downtown on nice days and got to know the downtown area more. This ultimately made it easier for when I had to give tours to family and friends who came to visit.

HANG OUT AT THE PARK

If you’re like me and enjoy reading while also being outside, I’d recommend going downtown to the Salem Common. Bring a book, bring a friend, bring a blanket, bring lunch and you’re all set. It’s also a good place to people watch, while still being close to downtown.

HAVE A BEACH DAY!

Personally, as a Cape Cod native, I would think it would be a waste to not go to the beach at least once while you’re in the Salem area. There are many public and private beaches nearby, as well as a 3-mile boardwalk that stretches from Swampscott to Nahant.

GO TO THE PEABODY ESSEX MUSEUM 

Sadly, it’s not always sunny in Massachusetts. So, on those days when being outside doesn’t sound appealing, why not spend a few hours perusing the PEM? They have permanent displays as well as exhibitions that change every few months. Note: It’s free for Salem State students.

BAGEL WORLD

This one is my favorite. This quickly became my favorite place to take friends and family (who weren’t from this area) to when they visited Salem for the first time. They have good bagels and sandwiches, and there’s a drive-thru. If you don’t have a car, don’t fret, it’s directly across the street from the Gassett Fitness Center.

HOWLING WOLF

The Howling Wolf is the place to go if you’re looking for that feel-good food that everyone craves once in a while. If you’re in the mood to go out, you can eat there, or they also have a take-out option.

[salemstateuniversity]

Salem State freshman orientation began this week, and we’re psyched to welcome the newest Vikings to the Class of 2020!

Say hello to this year’s orientation leaders!

[salemstateuniversity]

My SSU Experience

Someway, somehow, I wanted to express my gratitude for every single person I have had the pleasure to meet at Salem State University. My professors taught me well and for them, I am grateful. I am grateful for the time I had with each and every one of them as they slowly, but surely prepared me for the professional world. They always wanted to know how I was doing both in and out of class. While I was a communications major with a minor in Sport Management, Salem State University has truly made me a proud student. I am especially a proud senior coming close to graduation in two weeks. This a bittersweet time to reflect on how far I've come from Fall 2013. I am not exaggerating when I say that every person I've met, both students and faculty, seemed genuinely interested in my success. Of course, I returned that same sentiment. I agree with other students that this university became "home." I do wish that I had more time for clubs, however, I was lucky enough to be involved in many events and groups outside of class with fellow classmates. I firmly believe that it is important to remember where we came from. Therefore, Salem State University won't just be "where I graduated from," it will be a second home to me for as long as I live. This university will be the roots of my future. I am honored to be a part of Salem State University's Graduating Class 2016 and Alumni. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. You made me better.

[salemstateuniversity]

I was most surprised by how much it felt like home

Emily Okraska

I was most surprised by how much it felt like home and how easy it was to meet people with similar interests as me. 

Salem State has given me the opportunity to explore Psychology, which allowed me to find my specific interest in Applied Behavior Analysis and Experimental Analysis of Behavior. Not only that but the faculty here have supported me every step of the way. 

I didn't expect to find a career path I'm really, truly passionate about at Salem State, but I did!

[salemstateuniversity]

I thank God for allowing me to meet phenomenal women on this campus

Lucy Kamau

What surprised you most at SSU?

They are two things that have surprised me at SSU. The first is the amazing friendships that I’ve made and second is the incredible mentorship I have received. Sisterhood is very important to me and I thank God for allowing me to meet phenomenal women on this campus. My salem state sisters have taught me to be brave, to speak against injustices, to cry without feeling apologetic, these women have held my hands through the darkest times here at the institution. These women have showed me loving my skin and my kinky natural hair is cool despite what society says. It made me realize ‘damn my friends are phenomenal’, because they are so phenomenal, I too am phenomenal and their light makes me shine. I’m also surprised about the help and mentorship that I’ve received from some higher administrators who I now call my mentors. My mentors ‘Ashleyne Alexis, Daphnee Georges, Rebecca Comage’ are three incredible women of color who I truly admire. These women have opened doors and encouraged me to push forward in times of adversity.

What opportunities has Salem State given you?

Through Salem State I was able to intern at St. John’s Prep in the multicultural office for my senior year. I attended the career service job fair back in september 2015, and through the job fair I was able to land an internship which I am grateful for. Salem State groups and clubs like multicultural student association and urban arts theatre have also given me the opportunity to be a leader on campus, the opportunity to write and direct a play (UAT 2015 play)and the opportunity to mentor other students. Another opportunity that Salem State has given me is the platform to advocate for black students on campus through the organization black brown and proud, which is a student movement, ran by students.

What I didn’t expect to do is write a play called L.I.F.E at Salem State, but I did.

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Salem has so much to offer and having it be so close to the school was really an experience.

Kaitlyn Noll

What surprised you most about Salem State?

I was mostly surprised about how much I liked the location about SSU. I really don't care much for the city but the campus was close enough to where it was a quick trip if I ever wanted to go into Boston but also far away enough where I don't suffer from the impossible traffic should I need to go somewhere. I also really love how close it is to the downtown and historical area. Salem has so much to offer and having it be so close to the school was really an experience, especially around Halloween.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the level of teaching I have received. I know some professors who also teach at Harvard or other larger (expensive) school and they do an amazing job for less the cost. Salem State has done a great job with hiring professionals who care about us and do their job well to make sure we get the most of our education. I have the same degree and same knowledge as someone who pays twice as much as I do.

What opportunities has Salem State given you?

Salem State has given me the opportunity to develop my leadership qualities throughout my life here. There is no shortage of leadership roles and I tried to take advantage of as a student. I held roles on campus through Residence Life as a Resident Assistant, I branched into extra curriculars and was a part of the Spirit Squad, and now I am more involved with academics as the president of the Accounting Association. I have grown immensely because of these opportunities and am forever grateful. 

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Salem State provided opportunities to GROW in as many groups, clubs, or organizations I could get my hands on.

Bri-Ana Johnson

What surprised you most at SSU?

“Having such a strong community within SSU that is looking to make movements, and not just moments! There's always work to be done, but there is a sense of "home" and "family" throughout this college experience. I've been surrounded by so many young, thriving men and women who will become aspiring future lawyers, doctors, nurses, social workers, chemists, biologist, musicians, and many more that will CHANGE the world. Seeing all of my peers, who have also been great leaders in our community, have truly impacted my outlook on the future and where I would like to stand in this world.”

What are you most proud of?

“I am most proud to meet the many people that I have throughout my experience. Whether that was in residence life, diversity and multicultural affairs, student advocacy, center for academic excellence, on the Women's basketball team, in urban arts theater, or in the chemistry and biology societies. Many of whom, that have positively impacted my journey in being a young woman of color in America.”

What opportunities has Salem State given you?

“Salem State provided opportunities to GROW in as many groups, clubs, or organizations I could get my hands on. Here, I was able to gather who I was before, who I am, and who I want to be in the future to my family, friends, colleagues, and to the many other people I meet on my next journey. Experiences that I will never forget!”

“There's nothing I didn't expect, and there's nothing I ever doubted while being at Salem State. The people that I've met at Salem State provided me with guidance and tools that I needed to be the woman I am today and moving forward. I knew it was all a matter of time!”

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At Salem State the University does not see me as a number but as an individual that is making a difference on this campus.

Virginia Lyons

“What surprised you most at SSU?

“I am most surprised by how open and accessible many of the faculty and staff are. I am so happy that I can go to a variety of people on campus especially the Center for Academic Excellence as well as the Diversity and Multicultural Affairs office. These two offices are always extremely helpful and encourage me to be the best that I can be.”

What are you most proud of?

“I am most proud of all the groups and clubs that I have joined and started at Salem State University. I am one of the founders of the ALPFA Salem State Chapter, which is an organization that helps students and professionals connect and helps students leverage job and internship opportunities. Joining this organization has helped me develop my leadership skills and my goals for my life. Only being on the campus for two years, we have created successful programs such as the dress for success/etiquette dinner and our resume critique event. I am so proud to be the president of this organization and cant wait to see what ALPFA Salem State is going to do next.”

What opportunities has Salem State given you?

“Salem State has given me the opportunities to really connect with all my professors because of the small class setting. At Salem State you are not a number but an individual that is making a difference on this campus”

“I didn’t expect to do a peaceful march about increasing the diversity among faculty and staff and the curriculum at Salem State, but I did.”