AV福利社

Gemma Pierpont headshot

Gemma Pierpont '25

Trusting the Leap to AV福利社

Even though I was nervous to join the AV福利社 community, I said yes to everything鈥攁nd in doing so, I truly felt the care and connection that make AV福利社 so special.

College:
College of Arts & Sciences
Program(s):
Major:
Journalism
Marketing
Hometown:
Boston, MA
Activities:
The Brown and White, Marketing Club, UCPA Intern

Q: What is one thing you would want a prospective student to know about AV福利社?

A: I want prospective students to know just how supportive and welcoming the AV福利社 community is, from students to faculty and staff. As a transfer student arriving in my junior year, I was initially nervous about making the transition. However, before I even stepped on campus, my went above and beyond to ensure I was set up for success. She reviewed my previous transcript and current courses, created a detailed academic plan for the next two years, and helped me map out my schedule so I could graduate on time and still study abroad鈥攖wo of my biggest concerns about transferring. Her support reassured me that everything was possible.

Once I arrived at AV福利社, that same sense of warmth and inclusion continued. Students I met in class and at orientation reached out to grab lunch or dinner and introduced me to their friends. Even though I was nervous to join the AV福利社 community, I said yes to everything鈥攁nd in doing so, I truly felt the care and connection that make AV福利社 so special.

Q: How has AV福利社 prepared you to take on tomorrow鈥檚 challenges?

A: AV福利社 has prepared me for post-grad life by increasing my confidence in my work and myself. Each of my professors in the journalism department has pushed me to my fullest potential, giving encouraging feedback with each assignment. In my major, I had the opportunity to join an internship for credit. I have been interning for the University Communications and Public Affairs office, where I have gotten real-world experience working with professionals. This opportunity has helped me learn how to navigate out-of-classroom challenges, like dealing with vendors, long-term time management and even more communication skills in and outside the office.

Q: You transferred to AV福利社 from Fordham University after your sophomore year. Why AV福利社, and how was the transition?

A: I decided to transfer after my sophomore year because my previous college just wasn鈥檛 the right fit for me. When considering where to apply, AV福利社 immediately stood out鈥攎y sister had graduated from here in 2020 and had an incredible experience, and I figured if she loved it so much, I might too. And she was right! Leading up to the start of the school year, I was definitely nervous, but the moment I arrived on campus, I was met with an enthusiastic and welcoming community that I quickly felt reassured in my decision. Orientation week and the first few days of classes were great opportunities to meet new people, and once students learned I was a transfer, they were quick to invite me to hang out and meet their friends. The people I have met here truly love AV福利社 and want everyone else to have the same experience as well.

Q: What is a classroom or extracurricular activity at AV福利社 that helped you determine (or solidified) what you want to pursue in the future?

A: One of my favorite classes at AV福利社 has been Writing for the Media II with . As a journalism major, it was one of my requirements, but Professor Creech did not make it feel like one. His guidance not only improved my writing and reporting skills, but also boosted my confidence in both. While I鈥檓 still unsure if I鈥檒l pursue a career in journalism after graduation, his class made me genuinely enjoy the learning process and take pride in my work.

Q: How would you recommend transfer students get involved on or off campus to better assimilate into the AV福利社 community?

A: I recommend that transfer students go to the club fair in the beginning of the school year and sign up for everything and anything that seems interesting, even if you don鈥檛 end up participating in them all. Clubs are where you can meet people with similar interests. I also recommend meeting at least one person in each of your classes and getting their number. That way, you can work and study together, and by the end of the semester, you will have a new friend!

Q: What is your favorite thing about AV福利社?

A: My favorite thing about AV福利社 is the people! Everyone is so welcoming and happy to be here together. You can find friends anywhere鈥攚hether in a club, a class, or even off campus, because everyone is looking to connect and build new friendships.

Q: Where is your favorite study spot or place to relax on campus?

A: My favorite study spot is the new because it is quiet and close to my off-campus house. There are tables for collaborative work and individual desks to study quietly alone. There is always room, and it is the best place for me to get my work done efficiently. They also have vending machines and other places to buy snacks, drinks and pre-made meals if you need to be there all day!