Hello, my name is Jaclyn Riley. I am in the class of 2011 at Suffolk University, as a double major in Business Management and Public Relations.  As a double major I am able to benefit from the programs in Suffolk University’s Sawyer Business School as well as the College of Arts and Sciences.  Upon completing my bachelor’s degree, I aspire to continue education towards a master’s degree in business and also a degree in law.  This fall I will be applying for a joint degree (BSBA/MBA), which is an accelerated program offered at Suffolk for undergraduate business students who want to continue education directly into their MBA.   

I am from the north shore of Massachusetts, but currently reside in the Seaport District of Boston.  I have lived in an apartment off-campus since freshman year.  It has been wonderful for me.  Several resources are available when deciding where to live while attending Suffolk, such as the Residence Life (on-campus) and OCHO (Off-Campus Housing Office).  

In addition to being a Trustees Ambassador, this year I will also be a Teaching Assistant for a freshman class called SU 101.  SU101 is a one credit introductory class to Suffolk that provides students with information about resources available, academic support, and addresses the pressures that you will feel as a first year student.   

On campus there is a wealth of activities and clubs available for you to become involved in.  My freshman year I took part in Alternative Spring Break, which is annually hosted through the S.O.U.L.S. Office (Community Service and Service Learning Center).  We traveled to Waveland, Mississippi, in conjunction with Community Collaborations, a non-profit organization, and assisted with building homes for hurricane victims.  The experience was so extraordinary and rewarding to me that I decided to become a student leader for the trip my sophomore and junior year.  There is also a fundraising aspect to the trip where students collaborate to set up advertising events such as a silent auction, care package sales, and even dorm storms! 

When selecting a college, several factors will contribute to your decision.  It is a pivotal point in any young person’s life. My advice to you is to ask as many questions as possible, review an academic plan for your degree interests, request information about extra-curricular programs, and tour the campus.  An educated decision should make you feel more confident when beginning the college experience! 

In my case it was simple.  I fell in love with the course program that the Sawyer Business School had to offer.  The concentrated class sizes convinced me that I would be more than just a number.   The quaint location atop Beacon Hill neighboring the Boston Common is unlike any other campus.  Another exciting aspect is the loyalty that the Boston natives and students have for our local sports teams - the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox.  Even if you’re not a sports fan, you will notice when a team has made the playoffs! 

If you have any questions please contact me at Jpriley@suffolk.edu.