I was first recruited to play on the Division I softball team as a junior in high school. I always had a dream of playing Division I softball, and I thought Saint Peter’s was one of my best options. Once I toured the campus, I knew this school was for me. I knew I would fit in well on a small campus, and SPU is the perfect size. I officially committed to play softball here at the beginning of my senior year of high school.

What was your major at SPU and what clubs or activities did you participate in?

I originally was majoring in biochemistry, but during my junior year, I decided to double major in mathematics as well. Playing a Division I sport takes up most of my time, but I was still a part of a few academic honors societies throughout my time here. I was in the honors program, along with Pi Mu Epsilon, which is the mathematics honors society. The honors program gave me the opportunity to write and defend a thesis – which I chose to do in mathematics. I decided to look at arm injuries to Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers, where I used statistics to analyze my findings. I worked with Dr. Kintos of the Mathematics department, as he had previously worked with baseball statistics for another honors thesis. Dr. Kintos was an amazing thesis advisor and was great to work with throughout the entire process.

The faculty had a big impact on you here with your thesis. How did faculty mentorship play a part in your Saint Peter’s University experience overall?

Faculty mentors have been a huge part of my time at Saint Peter’s. The entire mathematics department deserves a ton of praise, as they do so much for each of their students. They all care so deeply about their students and would do basically anything their students need. I have grown to have a great bond with Dr. Protomastro, who is a professor of mathematics. He is an amazing professor and has the biggest heart. I know I can rely on him for almost anything – whether that be a letter of recommendation, or even if I just need someone to talk to. The faculty at Saint Peter’s has truly made my experience here amazing, and I am so grateful to have met so many wonderful people here.

Was there a moment for you that truly cemented that this is the place you were meant to be?

Besides when I first came here and loved the small campus, I really bonded with my softball teammates my freshman year. I was struggling mentally with a bad case of the yips (an unexplainable loss of skill) while pitching. I felt so lost, but my teammates helped me through this. I quickly found a new position at first base, despite my desperate want to still pitch. I became a starter and was so supported by my teammates. I was extremely timid when I first joined the team, but quickly learned that I was meant to be here. My roommate, Kasidy Slusser, who is also a member of the softball team, became my best friend almost instantly. The combination of these two things really showed that SPU was meant for me.

As a 2025 graduate, what are your graduation plans and how did Saint Peter’s prepare you for that? Is it the path you expected? If it wasn’t, how did the skills you gained at Saint Peter’s help you figure out your new direction?

I am planning on enrolling in a Master’s program in data science. This is quite different from what I originally wanted to do – which was to work in a lab. I owe this to the mentorship of the mathematics department. During my freshman year, I was told to think about a minor in mathematics, since I was talented in this area. I was eventually encouraged to turn this minor into a major, which really made me have a greater passion for math. Data science combines both math and science, which I believe fits my passions very well.

What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?

Make great relationships with faculty members. So many of them will go above and beyond for you, if you treat them with respect. Focus on schoolwork, but don’t get too stressed out about it. Make sure you have time for yourself and friends as well. These will be the best four years of your life, enjoy them!

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I initially decided to become a Peacock because I searched for a university where every part of me—my dreams, background and values—would be embraced. The moment that I set foot on Saint Peter’s campus, I truly felt the commitment to community, scholarship and purpose radiating from everyone I was fortunate enough to meet. I knew I wasn’t just committing to a college, I was joining a real family to challenge, uplift and prepare me to make a true difference in the world.

What was your major at SPU and what clubs or activities did you participate in?

At Saint Peter’s, I majored in Mathematics, Chemistry, and Philosophy, with minors in Medicinal Chemistry and Physics, which was a combination that pushed me to imagine courageously across disciplines. I was also deeply involved outside of the classroom. I served as a Student Government Association (SGA) Senator for the Class of 2025 and eventually became the Chief Financial Officer of SGA, supporting fiscal transparency and mentoring future student leaders. As a Resident Assistant, I helped create a welcoming home for students and advocated for residents who reached out to me.

Through research, I worked as both an Honors Research Assistant and a PODER Research Fellow, presenting my work at venues like the MACUB Conference, ACS, the Joint Mathematics Meetings and the Saint Peter’s Academic Symposium. I also served as the Opinion Editor for The Saint Peter’s Tribune, using journalism to elevate people’s voices and drive vital conversations on campus. Additionally, as a STEM tutor, I supported students in making difficult subjects like chemistry and mathematics more accessible and less intimidating.

Was there a moment for you that truly cemented that this is the place you were meant to be?

My time in the Student Government Association showed that I was meant to be a changemaker here on campus. Stepping into that leadership role made me realize that my voice mattered, and that at Saint Peter’s, there was space for students like me to make change. Being able to advocate for my classmates, to bring student concerns directly to university leadership, and to fight for issues like inclusive record systems wasn’t just meaningful: it was empowering. Through SGA, I found a sense of purpose, belonging and agency that showed me I was exactly where I was meant to be.

Saint Peter’s is known for its Jesuit values, strong community, faculty mentors and opportunities for experiential learning. How did these come to life in your experience here?

Saint Peter’s taught me that individuality, such as my unique perspective, my different background, and my drive, wasn’t something to hide, but instead something to embrace. Faculty mentors not only believed in me; they pushed me to take hold of every opportunity, encouraging me to apply for research fellowships, leadership roles, and internships I never would have pursued without their guidance. Through experiential learning, I was able to transform my passions into action, by applying what I learned in the classroom to real-world challenges. Saint Peter’s showed me that by embracing my individuality and rushing boldly towards opportunities, I could stand out and make a meaningful difference.

As a 2025 graduate, what are your graduation plans and how did Saint Peter’s prepare you for that? Is it the path you expected? If it wasn’t, how did the skills you gained at Saint Peter’s help you figure out your new direction?

As a proud member of the Class of 2025, I’m thrilled to be continuing my academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania, where I will pursue a Master of Arts in Statistics and Data Science at the Wharton School through a specialized fellowship designed to prepare students for doctoral study. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, which breaks barriers to graduate education by covering the full cost of tuition—essentially allowing me to pursue graduate school for free.

Because of this, I am committed to advancing greater accessibility and equity through my own work, conducting research in public health equity as well as in biological and chemical data analysis. This opportunity blossomed from the strong academic foundation, leadership experiences, and personal resilience that Saint Peter’s instilled in me. Honestly, my path was not exactly what I first thought of when I applied to Saint Peter’s—but then again, whose is? The critical thinking, adaptability, and compassion I developed here gave me the strength to navigate every twist and turn with confidence and purpose.

What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?

If I could offer one piece of advice to incoming freshmen or new students, it would be this: don’t hold back. Say yes to experiences that take you out of your comfort zone. Speak up even when it’s hard. Chase every opportunity that calls to you, even if it feels out of reach. Trust that you belong here: because you do. Saint Peter’s has a way of turning ordinary beginnings into extraordinary stories. Your story is just beginning, and I promise, the world needs what only you can bring.

The world needs more Peacocks—and now, more than ever, it needs you.

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I chose Saint Peter’s because I wanted more than just a degree, I wanted transformation. After building a career and realizing I was in the wrong field, I knew it was time to reinvent myself. Saint Peter’s stood out not just for its academic programs, but for its values, especially the Jesuit mission of service, purpose, and reflection. It felt like the right place to start my next chapter, not just professionally, but personally.

What graduate program did you select at SPU and what inspired that choice? As a graduate student, what other activities do you participate in outside of getting your degree?

I’m graduating with a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. My time at Saint Peter’s was focused on growth both inside and outside the classroom. I’ve always been passionate about service and giving back, whether it was through mentoring, nonprofit work, or community fundraising, and the values of Saint Peter’s are deeply aligned with that.

I began my career in exercise science, working in corporate fitness before transitioning into administrative roles in the finance sector. Spending nearly two decades in the corporate world gave me a front-row seat to both highly functional and deeply dysfunctional organizations. Those experiences sparked my interest in leadership, workplace culture, employee engagement, and retention, ultimately leading me to pursue a degree in I/O Psychology.

Service and community impact have always been important to me. For several years, I’ve volunteered as a mentor through Read Ahead, supporting elementary students with literacy skills. I also served on the executive committee of the New York Foundling’s junior board, a child welfare organization I care deeply about, supporting initiatives around foster care, adoption, education, and mental health. Additionally, I’ve participated in endurance events with Team in Training to raise funds for cancer research and continue to stay involved with several other charitable organizations.

Was there a moment for you that truly cemented that this is the place you were meant to be?

Yes, there was a moment early on that made it clear I was exactly where I was meant to be. I had a meeting with my advisor, Dr. Feinberg, and while I was waiting, I saw him go out of his way to help another student. I was genuinely blown away by his dedication and care. That moment stuck with me, and he’s continued to show me that same kindness and support throughout my time at Saint Peter’s. That level of mentorship confirmed I was in the right place.
The Jesuit identity and faculty mentors deeply resonate with me. The Jesuit value of being “a person for others” mirrors how I’ve tried to live my life, through volunteering, mentoring, and lifting others up. And the faculty here made a huge impact. They didn’t just teach, they challenged and supported me.

As a 2025 graduate, what are your plans for after you receive your Master’s and how did Saint Peter’s prepare you for that? Is it the path you expected? If it wasn’t, how did the skills you gained at Saint Peter’s help you figure out your new direction?

As a 2025 graduate, my path has been anything but traditional! I returned to school to shift careers and pursue work that aligns more with who I am now. I’m planning to work in organizational development, with a focus on leadership, culture, and consulting. I’m also considering business school as a next step. Saint Peter’s gave me the confidence, clarity, and tools to pursue this new direction.

What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?

Don’t be afraid to change. Who you are on day one doesn’t have to be who you are at graduation. Be open to growth, to discomfort, and to new paths you didn’t expect. Get to know your professors, lean into the community, and trust that your journey, no matter how winding, can lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.

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Coming out of high school, I was unsure of my next destination. Looking at colleges, I did not know what I wanted, but coming for my tour at Saint Peter’s, I immediately felt the sense of community and belonging on campus. From the tour guide to my orientation leaders welcoming me to campus, everyone made me feel like a person and not just another student.

What is your major at SPU? Is that what you thought you would major in coming out of high school?

I am majoring in health science and minoring in chemistry. Initially, I planned to major in biology, but through speaking with admissions and my advisor about my future goal of pursuing a career as a physician’s assistant, they told me about the health science program and how it would help me develop my knowledge of the healthcare field.

You are very known on campus for being involved – you are in multiple clubs, you were the student representative on the Presidential Search Committee, have spoken at a number of alumni events about your time at Saint Peter’s and even been in some photoshoots! What inspired you to get involved? What is your full list of clubs and activities?

Coming out of high school, I regretted not being more connected with my community. When I arrived at Saint Peter’s, I was determined to break out of my shell and truly make this place feel like home. My resident assistant (RA) introduced me to the Student Government Association, and while I was initially hesitant to join, my peers encouraged me to take that first leap. That decision shaped my college experience in ways I could never have imagined. I served as class president for two years before stepping into the role of Student Government president, which I have now held for the past two years. Through Student Government, I not only grew as a student but also as a leader. I had the opportunity to meet incredible people, build lifelong connections, and make a lasting impact on campus. Beyond Student Government, I have also worked as a work-study student in the admissions office, where I’ve had the privilege of speaking with prospective students and alumni during tours and student panels. This role has allowed me to connect with both past and future Peacocks, sharing my experiences and memories at Saint Peter’s. I served as an orientation leader for two years, welcoming new students and helping ease their transition into college life.

My involvement extended beyond student leadership roles. I was honored to serve on several key committees, including the Core Revision Task Force, Presidential Search Committee, Inauguration Committee, Faculty Senate, Strategic Plan and Budget Committee, and The Board of Trustees as a student representative. These experiences allowed me to be the voice of the student body, ensuring that all voices were heard and valued. Saint Peter’s pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, take on leadership roles, and reach for my dreams. The connections I’ve built, the experiences I’ve had, and the impact I’ve made will stay with me long after I leave this campus.

Was there a moment for you that truly cemented that this is the place you were meant to be?

A moment that really cemented SPU as the place for me took place during my first year as an orientation leader. I had been giving tours as a work-study student to prospective students throughout the summer. Many parents came up to me and mentioned that I gave their child a campus tour that helped them finalize a decision to attend Saint Peter’s. It was those moments that made me realize Saint Peter’s is not just a University, but also a community that continues to grow, helps one another, and cares for the whole person, not just as a student. These opportunities I have been given aren’t only for me, but for all those of the SPU community and those who will be future peacocks.

As a 2025 graduate, what are your graduation plans and how did Saint Peter’s prepare you for that? Is it the path you expected? If it wasn’t, how did the skills you gained at Saint Peter’s help you figure out your new direction?

As a 2025 graduate, I am continuing to pursue my career as a physician’s assistant, focusing on orthopedics as a specialty. Through my advisors and faculty, I had the opportunity to shadow an orthopedic/sports medicine doctor where I got to further my knowledge in the healthcare field and become more comfortable being in the clinical setting. This has been a career interest of mine since my freshman year and my advisor, Dr. Christina Mortellaro, has worked with me to turn my aspirations into achievable goals that are now within my reach. The leadership opportunities I have been able to be a part of at SPU have allowed me to develop my teamwork, communication, and management skills that I will need in my future endeavors and lifelong goals.

What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?

My advice for incoming freshmen is to get involved and try something new. College is a time for you to experience new things and meet new people. Through these experiences, it will help you grow and build your own connections with the SPU community. Never feel afraid to walk into any room. It is through the doors I walked through that I was was able to meet lifelong friends and create memories I will cherish for the rest of my life.

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During my five years at Saint Peter’s, I met individuals from many diverse backgrounds. I traveled, collaborated, and celebrated achievements with these remarkable people, many of whom remain close friends today. Currently, I work at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, overseeing capital project budgets. My education at Saint Peter’s equipped me with the skills and experiences necessary for career success. The internships I secured provided practical experiences, while the curriculum helped me identify my passion for real estate development. Saint Peter’s University has not only shaped my professional aspirations but has also fostered lifelong connections and a profound sense of community. I am grateful for the experiences and lessons that have guided me along this path, and I am proud to be an alumnus of such a remarkable institution.

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Thanks to the support and resources I’ve received at Saint Peter’s, not only did I win our competition but I went on to compete against both Hudson County Community College and Stevens Institute of Technology, winning at the county level. To me, the win wasn’t just about the competition; it was about the incredible growth and learning that came from the experience. Saint Peter’s challenges us to think critically and strive for the Magis. This is why the world needs more Peacocks. My journey, like those of my fellow students, is proof that the world truly does need more Peacocks  – because we are ready to take on the world, and when Peacocks fly, they lift up everybody.

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“I initially enrolled as a biology major. Then I took ED160, Education and Schooling in a Multicultural Society…That course changed my life. I found my calling. In education, I will be in a position to share my passion for science.”

Newstein Chang ’19 was all in on STEM when he entered Saint Peter’s University. But it wasn’t until he took an introductory class in education that he realized his future would be in the classroom instead of the laboratory.

“I initially enrolled as a biology major. Then I took ‘Education and Schooling in a Multicultural Society,’” Chang said, adding that the passion of his professor was contagious. “I was inspired from the start. I knew that this is where I wanted to be, not chained to a lab stool, working with pipettes and microscopes. That course changed my life. I found my calling. In education, I will be in a position to share my passion for science.”

Chang served as a student-teacher at John P. Stevens High School in Edison—the rival school of his own alma mater, Edison High School. As well as finishing his coursework, Chang also served as a resident assistant, a volunteer coordinator for the Foreign Language School, and a peer tutor in the STEM Engagement Center, all of which taught him skills that will be useful as an educator.

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