As a Suffolk University undergraduate, Caitlyn Connerty knew there were certain people she could always turn to for sound advice.

She shared a particularly strong bond with Assistant Dean of Students John Silveria and with Dave DeAngelis and Meghan Kenney, who head up Student Leadership and Involvement.

“Having people like them as mentors and a source of guidance has helped me to figure out what I’m going to do with my life and where I want to be,” says Connerty, who earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in May.

She plans to pursue a master’s degree in higher education administration so that she can follow in the career footsteps of her Suffolk mentors by working with students in a university setting.

“That’s my goal,” says Connerty. “Suffolk and the people who work here have made me who I am today and given me opportunities that I’ve been able to act on.”

While at Suffolk, Connerty participated in The Journey program, a four-year leadership experience built on the cornerstones of involvement, service, career exploration and leadership. The Journey shows students that getting involved is the best way to enhance their college experience.

“The Journey program shaped my time at Suffolk, and I would recommend it to any incoming student, as well as students who are here already,” she says.

The leadership lessons Connerty learned through The Journey stood her well when she served as a student leader during an Alternative Spring Break trip to Athens, Georgia.

“I never had a more fulfilling experience in college,” she says. “Giving back is an important part in developing your morals and goals in life, and volunteering will always be a fundamental duty for me.”