Alyssa Hogan '24: From the Classroom to the Community
One transformative high school law class changed Alyssa’s college plans from STEM to political science.
When Rachael was applying to college, she hadn't quite figured out what she wanted to study.
There were several routes she could take on the path to her future, but deciding on one seemed impossible. Taking this predicament into consideration, she realized she needed to attend a school that could support all of her interests.
"I chose to enroll at Emmanuel because of the variety of academics they offered," said Rachael, who is pursuing a degree in Communications and Media Studies while minoring in both Graphic Design and Psychology. "Being a liberal arts college, Emmanuel allowed me to try different courses to see which I enjoyed, and which I didn't."
In addition to wanting to attend an institution with a multitude of programs, Rachael had also dreamed of going to college in Boston. But while she was looking to be in the heart of a big city, she wasn't necessarily looking to be in a huge school.
"Many of the colleges that I looked at were very large, but Emmanuel's smaller size seemed like the best fit for me," said Rachael. "I also loved the location of Emmanuel. Everything is just a short walk or train ride from campus."
In addition to her studies, Rachael is an active member of the Colleges of the Fenway (COF) Dance Project, a coalition of dancers and dance-enthusiasts from the Colleges of the Fenway, namely Emmanuel, MassArt, MCPHS, Simmons, and Wentworth. Rachael started dancing when was just five years old, and she went on to become a competition dancer as well as a student at the Boston Ballet for four years before coming to Emmanuel.
"Dance has always been an important part of my life," Rachael said. Being able to continue dancing while in college was important in Rachael's decision.
Now, as a member of COF Dance Project, Rachael is able to further her dance education by delving into an array of educational and artistic opportunities in dance, taking classes in a variety of genres and even choreographing performances, all while forging connections with fellow dancers.
"The sense of community within the COF Dance Project is so inspiring and unique in that it has allowed me to meet new people from all of the Colleges of the Fenway. It is awesome being able to share my love for dance with people who share that same feeling."
