Driven by Curiosity and Community: Meet St. Lawrence's Class of 2026

As they prepare to head to graduate school at places like Johns Hopkins University or Pennsylvania State University, to New York City for their first acting job or role in finance, or to Washington, D.C., Stockholm, or the Shores of Lake Superior, we gave them one last chance to reflect on the place that helped them find their direction and launch their brilliant futures. 

Cordelia Sherwood  

Majors: Computer Science and Mathematics  
Hometown: Park City, Utah 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

The Philosophy of AI course I took in my sophomore year changed my perspective by helping me further understand the pros, cons, and in-depth workings of artificial intelligence from a philosophical standpoint. It broke down how AI systems function at a conceptual level, without focusing on math or coding, and explored how they are used in the real world. The class gave me a stronger foundation for thinking about AI and connecting technical ideas with bigger-picture questions. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?  

Starting the Letters of Love chapter at St. Lawrence my first year. What began as a small idea turned into a long-lasting organization with over 250 members across different programs, teams, and other campus organizations. It became more than just writing letters. It created a way to bring people together through something simple and meaningful, while also reaching beyond campus to support those going through difficult moments.  

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

Charles A. Dana Professor of Computer Science Ed Harcourt and Assistant Professor of Mathematics Gabriel Dorfsman-Hopkins. 

Professor Harcourt, my advisor, helped me think more broadly about opportunities in math and computer science, and encouraged me to approach career paths with an open and flexible perspective. 

Professor Dorfsman-Hopkins, my Senior Year Experience advisor, was patient and supportive, and approached our collaboration with a willingness to learn alongside me. That pushed me to explore new ideas with more confidence. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Being selected to participate in the McLaren Racing NEXT program, where I traveled to London alongside other female leaders in STEM. It was an incredible opportunity to learn from one another, collaborate, and gain insight into the world of motorsport and engineering at a global level. The academic foundation, confidence, and perspective I developed at St. Lawrence allowed me to fully engage, contribute, and thrive within the cohort.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I plan to pursue a professional master's in applied and computational mathematics and statistics at the University of Notre Dame. While there, I hope to join the Notre Dame Formula SAE team to apply my skills in a hands-on setting. Long term, I aim to work in the motorsport industry, focusing on data, telemetry, and performance optimization. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition?  

100th Night. Gathering in the chapel 100 nights before graduation and listening to peers reflect on our time together at St. Lawrence creates a quiet moment to step back and take it all in. It’s a simple tradition, but one that really captures the sense of community here. 

Michael Agyekum 

Majors: Biomedical Sciences and Public Health 
Hometown: Born and raised in Ghana; currently reside in The Bronx, New York 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

Being president of the Laurentians for Equity, Equality, and Diversity (LEED). I am proud of the positive impact we had on this campus. I especially want to highlight the different networking programs we created aimed at connecting our No. 1 Alumni Network directly to the diverse student populations and groups on our campus. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Assistant Professor of Public Health Petros Vilakati has been instrumental in and out of the classroom. He provided critical guidance throughout my graduate school application process and helped me actualize my potential in the field of public health. Director of the CSTEP and McNair Scholars Program Marsha Sawyer has helped me in all matters regarding career readiness and preparation. HEOP Director Bill Short and Assistant Director Erin Colvin have been constant supporters. They provided me with the necessary space and resources to adjust to life in the North Country.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

The summer biodiversity safari course in Kenya. A key part of this experience was the research component. While summiting Mt. Kenya, we embarked on an altitude and physiology experiment where we measured hematocrit levels of non-acclimatized people using a homemade centrifuge. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will cherish forever because of all the moments of learning, community, and exploration.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future? 

In the fall, I will be attending the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, where I will be pursuing a Master of Science in Public Health in the international health department with a concentration in global disease and epidemiology control.  

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

My favorite tradition would have to be Moving-Up Weekend. It signifies the end of another rigorous year where students, faculty, and families get together to learn from each other through the research symposium. Most importantly, it provides time to honor and celebrate one another. 

Gracie Ringer 

Major: English 
Minor: Spanish 
Hometown: Elmira, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you? 

Viebranz Visiting Assistant Professor of Creative Writing Santee Frazier’s Lyric Essay and Hybrid Genre. In this class, I experimented with different writing styles than I was used to. I have always found my experiences with the different Viebranz professors each year to be extremely valuable. In Santee’s class, I wrote screenplays, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in different genres. I’ve published multiple pieces of writing from this class published and I couldn’t be more grateful to Santee. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

This year on Moving-Up Day, I was awarded first place for the James Ligon Price III Memorial Prize in Poetry! This award is given in conjunction with the Academy of American Poets in New York City. The poem I submitted is called “the valley in the sun” which deals with the grief one can experience over the death of someone who has wronged them. Not only was I extremely proud of this piece, but it’s also exciting that my work will be featured on Poets.org. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Professor of English Sarah Barber, my advisor and my First-Year Program instructor. In the spring of my first year, I took Techniques of Poetry with Sarah. She showed me that poetry is something I can do professionally. This year, I took on the daunting task of applying to graduate programs in creative writing, and Sarah continuously exceeded the expectations of an advisor. She met with me weekly, told me the hard truths about graduate programs, and gave me continuous feedback on the difficult process of writing a personal statement. I know I wouldn’t have gotten accepted into a graduate program without her. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Being a part of the St. Lawrence swimming and diving team. When applying to colleges, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue swimming, but I am so glad I did. Within my first week here, I felt at home with my team. The close bond we created during practices, team dinners at Dana, and more are so meaningful to me. This year, I was voted captain and it was a privilege to lead a team that I care for so deeply. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

Next year, I am attending Salisbury University to obtain my Master of Arts in English Creative Writing with a focus in poetry. I will be a teaching assistant in charge of a first-year composition class. I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this new journey! 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

I attended SLU Connect Boston, and I have had multiple meetings with both interns and staff to help build my resume and prepare for interviews. I really appreciate how accessible the Center is at our school. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

The a cappella groups! As a part of the Singing Sinners, it’s been an extreme joy to practice, arrange, and sing with a group of like-minded people and friends. I love music and I’m so appreciative that St Lawrence gives its students opportunities to pursue multiple passions at once. 

James Gatcliffe 

Major: Mathematics  
Minor: Statistics 
Hometown: Clarksburg, Ontario 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Regression Analysis.  

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

My Senior Year Experience project on Alpine ski points. 

Editor’s note: This year, both James and his sister, Emma ’27, made our community proud when they represented St. Lawrence on the Olympic stage. Emma competed in the Alpine skiing slalom and giant slalom events on behalf of Trinidad and Tobago, and her brother was one of her coaches. Learn more about this special experience.  

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

My advisor, Charles A. Dana Professor of Mathematics Dan Look, and Professor Emeritus of World Languages, Culture, and Media Roy Caldwell. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Spending a semester abroad in Copenhagen. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

My hope is to find a job as an analyst or consultant in Canada or the United States. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

The Center put me in touch with some great alums. Making meaningful connections has been very helpful, especially as a Canadian student. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

The Route 11 Rivalry. I love watching hockey and the atmosphere in Appleton Arena is amazing during games against Clarkson. 

Harper Eskey  

Majors: Mathematics and Data Science 
Hometown: Austin, Texas 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Two courses stand out to me. The first is Database Systems and Security, where I learned about SQL and security measures. It even inspired my next chapter after graduation. I had the privilege of taking that course with my advisor, Charles A. Dana Professor of Computer Science Ed Harcourt. The second is my Senior Year Experience with Professor of Philosophy Jennifer Hansen, which helped me figure out how to apply my technical skills to topics I genuinely care about and use them to make a real difference. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

My four years on the riding team. The relationships I built and the work I poured into that program have been deeply meaningful. Serving as a two-year captain taught me something I didn't know about myself before college: that I love being in a leadership role. The team's commitment to both its culture and the care of the horses makes this program something truly special. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Professor Ed Harcourt. I emailed him when I was in high school, and he took the time to meet with me when I came for my campus tour at 17 years old. My mom was on the fence about letting me attend St. Lawrence because it’s so far from home, but meeting Ed eliminated all doubt. From that moment on, he helped me map out the right courses for my goals and has been both a mentor and a friend.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

My first year, I went igloo camping with the Outing Club, and I can honestly say I have never been so cold in my life. We built our own igloos and then spent the night in them. There were moments where I didn't know if I would make it, but I ended up meeting people who are still my best friends—Bowman Schneider ’26 and Lauren Trexler ’26. That trip is now one of my favorite memories. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I will be heading to Northeastern University to pursue a master's degree in data architecture and management. This program found me in the best way. Professor Harcourt's Database Systems and Security class sparked my passion for the field and pointed me toward this path. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

The Center for Career Excellence was instrumental in helping me find my footing. They helped me craft my very first resume, which led to my first internship offer. Landing that interview gave me valuable experience and confidence. I also participated in a SLU Connect trip to Boston, where I met alumni, toured companies across industries, sharpened my networking skills, and learned just how powerful and tightknit the St. Lawrence network truly is. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Ringing the Victory Bell with my riding team after winning the region, all four years. 

Hayden Beyer  

Majors: Statistics and Environmental Studies/Mathematics Combined 
Hometown: Lowville, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Global Change and Sustainability with Professor of Environmental Studies Jon Rosales. It changed my perspective on traditional economics and flipped the idea of sustainable development on its head for me. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Stewart’s CEO Gary Dake '82. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Climbing Mt. Kenya during my summer semester abroad in Kenya! 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I plan to join Grayback Forestry to become a wildland firefighter. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

Going to SLU Connect NYC, D.C., and Burlington opened my eyes to what is out there and what does and doesn’t interest me. During a SLU Connect NYC trip, Chris Peters ’92 gave me some of the best advice I received as an undergrad: “nothing ventured, nothing gained.” 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Peak Weekend. 

Sophia Thomas 

Majors: Performance and Communication Arts and Political Science 
Hometown: Rochester, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Horror Rhetoric with Assistant Professor of Performance and Communication Arts Ashley Rife changed my perspective on rhetorical communication and horror movies. We watched a variety of horror movies and analyzed the rhetorical messages that the directors and producers were communicating with their audience. I wrote a research paper about the movie “Pearl,” and Professor Rife encouraged me to submit it to an undergraduate communications journal! 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

I am proudest of the positive impact that my fellow executive board members and I had on our sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma. At one point I served as president, which came with a lot of responsibility. Not only am I proud of myself, but I am also proud of the strong women who were part of my team. We set goals, made timelines, and focused on making our sorority better than ever, setting up the next executive board to continue the positive change! 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Associate Professor of Political Science Precious Hall. I met her when I took her American Politics course, and I knew immediately that I wanted her to be my political science advisor. She has supported me in ways that I was not expecting—both academically and personally. I even had opportunities to babysit her kids! She has provided a substantial amount of guidance throughout my college journey, and I cannot thank her enough. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Choosing to study abroad in Ireland during the summer of 2025 was one of the best decisions I’ve made at St. Lawrence. We traveled from the north to the south, learned from different tour guides, and explored multiple different cities. I got closer to people that I had never met before, built community outside of Canton, and even met alumni while on a massive cliff in the most remote place in Ireland! This trip proved to me that our community is everywhere, even in the most unexpected places. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

A career in higher education and specifically collegiate admissions. After graduation, my plan is to move to Boston and obtain a job as an admissions counselor at one of the great institutions there. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities?  

I worked with the CCE a lot during my senior year! They helped immensely with job searching, resume building, and interview prep.  

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Laurentian Weekend! My friends’ parents usually rent an RV to stay on campus, which is a popular option for families. We would invite all our friends and have a hoot of a time! It’s the best weekend in the fall, hands down. 

Carlos Sanchez

Majors: Anthropology and Psychology 
Hometown: The Bronx, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

The Human Skeleton with Associate Professor and Chair of Anthropology Mindy Pitre. One of the most significant perspective shifts in forensic anthropology is the transition from "studying objects" to "identifying individuals". When you are cleaning and identifying osteological remains, you aren't just looking at calcium and phosphorus; you are looking at a life story. This creates a deep sense of responsibility toward the dignity of the deceased and a commitment to restorative justice. The class taught me to recognize "biocultural" markers: how a person’s social environment leaves physical traces on their body. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

I'm proudest of the work I did to coordinate a student delegation for the SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico. It wasn't just about the logistics of travel; it was a test of leadership, advocacy, and the ability to bridge the gap between student interests and professional government spaces. Moving from participating in student government to leading a full delegation required a shift in mindset. It involved managing a diverse group of peers and ensuring that everyone was prepared to engage meaningfully with the conference material. Seeing the team navigate that environment successfully was incredibly rewarding.  

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

Professor Mindy Pitre and my HEOP advisor, Director Bill Short. Professor Pitre was the catalyst for my professional growth, moving me beyond the classroom and into the field, where she taught me the delicate ethics and technical precision of bioarcheology. Through hands-on excavations and laboratory analysis, she didn't just teach me how to identify remains; she invited me into the discipline as a peer.  

Bill Short has been a constant pillar of support, helping me navigate the complexities of the undergraduate experience and encouraging the resilience needed to balance campus leadership with my high academic goals.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

My ultimate goal is to pursue a career as a bioarcheologist. The hands-on work I’ve conducted during my undergraduate journey has felt less like an academic requirement and more like a calling. My immediate plan is to explore graduate programs that will allow me to dive deeper into skeletal pathology and forensic anthropology. I hope to dedicate my career to reading the biological archives of the human skeleton, using science to uncover unwritten histories and bring a sense of dignity to the past.  

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Moving-Up Day. There is a deep historical resonance to the ceremony, dating back to 1869, that naturally appeals to an appreciation for tangible records of the past. But beyond the history, the tradition of physically moving up a row of pews in Gunnison Memorial Chapel to occupy the seats left by the graduating class carries a profound sense of continuity. Moving-Up Day is the definitive moment where all of the behind-the-scenes work on campus is honored, and the mantle of leadership is visibly passed down.  

Katie Hallett 

Majors: Statistics and Mathematics 
Minor: Chinese Studies 
Hometown: Theresa, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

A Bridge to Higher Mathematics opened my eyes to what math could really be like. Instead of crunching numbers and or solving for “X,” A Bridge to Higher Math focused on proving the factuality of statements. I learned how important it is to not only be able to make true statements, but also to explain why they’re true. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Living in a theme house has been a three-year long adventure! I remember being so nervous about living in the Arts Annex, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions. I've met my closest friends and have had invaluable experiences.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

Now that I've finished my undergraduate experience, I feel like my future is just an endless hallway of possibilities. Right now, I have plans to work as a high school math teacher in Rochester, New York. However, long-term, my future could morph into anything. I could see myself pursuing a career-switch, traveling, or going to graduate school. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

I love Folk Fest! Walking around and looking at the different vendors or sitting on the grass with my friends and listening to the different bands on stage are some of my favorite memories of the spring semester. 

Matthew Shelton

Majors: Strategic Communications Multi-Field and Business in the Liberal Arts 
Hometown: Belfast, Maine 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

The Neuroscience of Fear, a summer course in London. It gave me a deeper look into the biological side of fear responses and how the brain processes stress. This has significantly helped my marketing work by providing a more analytical understanding of what drives human behavior. Beyond the classroom, being immersed in London inspired a more global way of thinking and taught me to be adaptable when approaching challenges.  

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

I am most proud of an independent research project titled “Boosted by European Influence,” conducted while studying abroad in Stockholm, Sweden. I started this capstone project to study how geographic and cultural contexts impact social media algorithms, and coded interactive maps to showcase my data on a website I created. Completing this project changed how I view traditional marketing by proving that a high-impact creative strategy can be backed by technical and logical reasoning. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Associate Director of Marketing and Content Strategy Olivia White '17. When I first began working in University Communications as a freshman, Olivia served as both my boss and mentor. Starting my marketing career in higher education is something I will never take for granted. From brand alignment to digital storytelling, I would not be where I am today without the skills and knowledge I learned from her. This experience taught me how to represent an institution and significantly shaped my professional presence. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

A summer internship at an international law firm in Bangkok, Thailand. Traveling across the world to work a full-time internship at 19 was not how I expected to spend the summer after my first year. From covering corporate events for social media to navigating the sudden rain showers of monsoon season, each day brought new challenges that pushed me to grow. This experience was my first real look at how to adapt my creative skills to a professional environment in a completely different cultural context. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I will be moving to Sweden in August to pursue my master's in marketing and consumption at the University of Gothenburg. I am looking forward to the challenges and adventures that each day will bring as I continue growing my international experience. My goal is to keep bridging the gap between creative storytelling and analytical strategy on a global scale. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

The theme houses. I had the privilege of calling Commons College my home for a couple of years. Commons is a living and learning community that takes a course together each semester while raising money for the North Country Children's Museum. This house gave me the opportunity to get more involved on and off campus while introducing me to some of my closest friends. It really highlights the sense of community and purpose that makes the St. Lawrence experience so unique. 

Owen Kotula 

Major: Environmental Studies/Economics Combined 
Hometown: Peterborough, New Hampshire 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Energy Life Cycle Assessment. This course coupled numerical data and computer software with environmental thinking. When I came to St. Lawrence, I was not specifically interested in environmental studies, rather I saw it as something I could pair with my business degree. This course sparked my interest in supply chains, and considering the upstream and downstream effects of goods. My experience led to my Senior Year Experience with Professor of Environmental Studies Dave Murphy, where I analyzed the environmental impacts of various beers. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

Becoming a senior fellow in Admissions. Working as a fellow in the Admissions Office added a level of professionalism to my weekly routine. I interviewed students and represented the University to applicants. This was a fulfilling endeavor, as it pushed me out of my comfort zone on a regular basis: answering multifaceted questions from parents, managing the phone, or giving a speech to over a hundred people. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Associate Director of Admissions Chris Felix has been super helpful throughout my years at St. Lawrence. He answered my questions related to the job, helped me convince my sister to attend St. Lawrence, and was a friend in and out of the office. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Sophomore year, I went to Jay Peak with Club Ski. Boy, it was a hoot. I was pushed by some seniors to join at the last minute and was rewarded by meeting countless new friends who shared the same passion for Alpine skiing. While I surely prioritized free skiing over racing slalom or giant slalom that weekend, I made a lot of friends and had a great time during the club ski season my senior year. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I will be working for Walmart Grocery Distribution as an area manager in Lewiston, Maine. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

I went on two SLU Connect Trips: D.C. and Burlington. I worked with Senior Associate Director of Career Programming Beth Larrabee on my resume multiple times, and refined questions for each round of interviews. While filling out any job application, meeting with the Career Center helped me prepare to put my best foot forward.  

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Theme houses. They're the reason why our campus community is so inclusive, and they help make St. Lawrence the uniquely awesome place it is. 

Maggie McNally

Major: Political Science 
Minor: Digital Media and Film 
Hometown: Winnetka, Illinois 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

International Relations. This class inspired me to follow the political science path. It became the foundation for the other courses I took and helped me become more interested in what was happening throughout the world. It also inspired me to study and work abroad in Vienna, Austria, and Paris, France. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?  

Becoming captain of the track and field team. Being a member of this program not only provided leadership opportunities, but it also tested my physical limits and taught me the value of commitment. Coming into college, I was a 100m and 200m sprinter. During my sophomore year, Head Women’s Cross-Country and Track and Field Coach Kate Howard told me they were going to put me in the 400m (a long, grueling sprint race). At first, I was afraid, but I learned to lean in. Switching events allowed me to compete at the All-Atlantic Region Track and Field Conference meet as part of the distance medley relay in 2024. Winning that race with my teammates was so rewarding. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence? 

Igloo camping with the Outdoor Program. We traveled to a campground near Tupper Lake and spent the day making our igloos. When night fell, it started to snow heavily (as it does in the North Country). It turns out that we had accidentally built our igloo the wrong way, and the entire night, we could feel the snow and wind. I have never been colder in my entire life, but the shared experience of being absolutely freezing helped our group bond. So now not only can I say, "I have been camping in an igloo," but I can also say that I made new friends as a result. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

After graduation, I will be moving to Washington, D.C.! There, I will be working for a government contracting company called Xcelerate Solutions as a business analyst. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

At the end of my sophomore year, I attended SLU Connect in Washington, D.C. I had never been to D.C. before, and as a political science major, I was excited to understand all it had to offer. I loved meeting alums, but I also loved the city and the hustle of networking. I knew that once I graduated, that's where I needed to be, and that's where I am going.  

I was also involved with the LINC Mentorship program. I am really grateful for my mentor, Jon Roux '15. He gave me excellent advice on everything from interview prep to my resume, and how to start my career in D.C. 

James Walker 

Majors: Computer Science and Mathematics 
Hometown: Rockaway Beach, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Acting Solo: Story to Stand Up. Despite majoring in STEM, many performance and communication arts classes helped me learn more about myself and others. People underestimate the ability to tell a story, but luckily, I had a great professor who gave us what we needed to learn the ropes. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

Performing in the play every semester here at St. Lawrence. Nothing beats overhearing a person tell their friend about a play or musical that made their night. The ability to bring that level of joy to someone for even just one hour is enough motivation to keep pursuing what I love! 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

I am incredibly lucky to have been friends with many of our recent graduates, and they have been the best mentors anyone could ask for. Many of them helped me discover who I am, and who I aim to be in the future, and I owe them for their help in making my St. Lawrence experience wonderful. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I was recently cast in a summer production of Grease in New York City! However, I also hope to make a career in either indie game development or website creation as I love to create experiences others can enjoy. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

It has to be the theme houses. It's beautiful how interconnected they are, and how each house brings something new to campus life. Some of our community's greatest traditions originate from a theme house in one way or another, such as the Outing Club’s Titus or the Angst Party at the Arts Annex! 

Claire Kessing 

Majors: Economics and Business in the Liberal Arts 
Hometown: Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Law and Economics with Visiting Assistant Professor of Economics Alan Lockard showed me how real-world decisions are shaped by contracts and economic incentives. The class taught me how to view legal issues through both an ethical and economic lens, deepening my understanding of how law shapes individual behavior. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

My First-Year Program professor, Associate Professor and Chair of the Canadian Studies Department Neil Forkey. Professor Forkey played a significant role in my transition to St. Lawrence. He encouraged me to participate in thoughtful discussions, pushed me to think critically, and helped me build confidence in my academic research and writing abilities. His guidance and support early on in my college career gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in upper-level classes.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Studying abroad in Vienna! I had the opportunity to live with a host family that introduced me to Austrian traditions and perspectives by including me in their everyday life. Studying abroad was the best decision I made in college. I made some of my closest friends by learning to say yes to new experiences and getting outside of my comfort zone.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

After graduation, I will be moving to New York City to work as a legal practice assistant at Morgan Lewis in the business and corporate transactions group. I am excited to begin my career in the legal field and to continue developing skills that will prepare me for law school and a future career in corporate law. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

I was first introduced to the Center for Career Excellence during Careers 101 with Associate Director for Career Education Michelle Gould. The class helped me understand how to navigate conversations with alumni, craft a strong resume, and perform well in interviews. This course not only helped me build my professional skills but also to form relationships with alumni who continue to support and inspire me. 

James Tobin 

Major: Biology 
Minor: Public Health 
Hometown: Milton, Massachusetts 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Social Determinants of Public Health with Assistant Professor Joseph Braimah. The course changed the way I think about healthcare by showing how factors like income, education, environment, and access to resources can shape a person's opportunities and health outcomes long before medical treatment even begins. It essentially broadened my perspective on the challenges people face, and it influenced both my health coaching internship with St. Lawrence Health and my community involvement. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

My health coaching internship through St. Lawrence Health. During the internship, I worked closely with a Canton community member, and with support from members of my fraternity, Alpha Tau Omega, we helped move him into a new apartment and a better living situation. Seeing the positive impact that support, consistency, and community can have on someone’s well-being was incredibly meaningful and reinforced my interest in public health and helping others. 

I am also proud to have served as president of the St. Lawrence Rugby Team, where we worked to rebuild the program culture and competitiveness, ultimately returning to being one of the top teams in our league.  

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

Ian Hansen ’25 and Peter Tully ’25. During my time in Alpha Tau Omega, they taught me how to balance academics, leadership, and my personal life. More importantly, they modeled how to be disciplined but also personable and present in their community. Their guidance played a big role in shaping how I think about leadership and becoming a well-rounded person. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Taking Ornithology and participating in field-based birding experiences. It was a completely unfamiliar concept to me at first, and learning to identify species by sight and sound required a lot of focus and repetition. I pushed myself to become more observant and patient in the field. By the end of the class, I had not only improved significantly but also developed an unexpected appreciation for bird ecology and outdoor fieldwork. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

After graduation, I will start a full-time position as a quality assurance analyst at T. Marzetti Company, focused on food quality and production standards.  

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Dana Brunch! After a long Saturday night, it’s kind of St. Lawrence’s universal reset button—grab food, lock in for Sunday, and slowly come to terms with the assignments you pushed off during the weekend. It’s a good time to debrief, catch up with friends, and mentally prepare for the week ahead. The Dana staff are awesome and the coffee is solid. I'm gonna miss Dana Brunch at the ATO table. 

Navya Aggarwal 

Majors: Business in the Liberal Arts and Economics 
Minors: European Studies and Gender and Sexuality Studies 
Hometown: Moshi, Tanzania 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Studies in Masculinities. I learned that masculinity is not one fixed idea, but something shaped by race, class, sexuality, culture, religion, and personal experience. What impacted me most was realizing how deeply gender expectations influence the way people think and behave. Outside the classroom, I became more conscious of the assumptions we all make every day, and it changed the way I listen to others and navigate conversations.  

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

How fully I’ve taken advantage of every opportunity to grow during college. From being selected as a Student Delegate to the Board of Trustees to receiving Sophomore of the Year and the Bradley Evers Award my first year, each accomplishment reflects my determination and perseverance. I’ve also been inducted into honor societies like the National Society of Leadership and Success, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Tri-Alpha, while maintaining Dean’s List every semester.  

What means the most to me, though, are the experiences that changed me as a person. Studying in Thailand, London, and New York City—along with completing international internships—put me in completely unfamiliar environments and taught me independence, adaptability, and self-confidence. 

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

Director of International Student Services Tsewang Lama and Assistant Director of International Student Services Megan Putney had a huge impact on me during my off-campus experiences. Studying abroad comes with a lot of uncertainty and discomfort, but they always knew how to keep me grounded and calm while encouraging me to fully embrace the experience.  

Assistant Professor of Gender and Sexuality Studies Mahrou Zhaf influenced me in a more personal and academic way. She encouraged me to pursue a minor in gender studies, which changed the way I think about identity, culture, and the world around me.  

Finally, Charles A. Dana Professor of Economics Cynthia Bansak continuously encouraged me to aim higher and gave me the opportunity to participate in a competitive program at the University of Chicago, which strengthened both my confidence and interest in economics. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I hope to pursue a career in marketing or corporate finance, ideally in a role that allows me to combine creativity, strategy, and problem-solving. 

What are your favorite St. Lawrence traditions? 

Moving-Up Day is especially meaningful to me because it feels like a moment of recognition, not just for academic achievements, but for all the personal growth that happens throughout the year.  

Kaleidoscope reminds me that everyone on campus is navigating their own challenges and growth, and there’s something comforting about seeing the entire community come together through performances, art, and shared experiences.  

Sara St. Clair 

Major: Neuroscience 
Minors: Chemistry and Statistics 
Hometown: Winthrop, Maine 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Intro to Data Science with Associate Professor of Statistics and Data Science Matt Higham. It changed the way I think about research data and taught me how to properly model, analyze, and display data in a meaningful way. The class gave me skills that I’ve been able to apply directly to my research experiences and helped me better understand how important clear and accurate data presentation is in science.  

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

After a year of independent neuroscience research, I completed my honors thesis: Age-Dependent α-Synuclein Aggregation and Proteostasis Modulation in Caenorhabditis elegans. This project brought together everything I’ve learned in the lab, from experimental design to confocal imaging, data analysis, and scientific writing. 

Finishing this thesis was a major milestone because it challenged me to think and work like an independent scientist. It required me to push through setbacks, refine my approach, and ultimately gave me a much deeper understanding of neurodegeneration research and what it takes to carry a project from question to conclusion. 

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

My most influential Laurentian mentors have been Professor of Biology and Psychology Ana Estevez and Microscopy Specialist Alana Belkevich. Ana Estevez was my research advisor and had a huge impact on my growth as a scientist. She gave detailed feedback, held me to high standards, and pushed me to become a stronger scientific writer, reader, and critical thinker.  

Alana Belkevich, my co-advisor, created an environment where I felt comfortable exploring ideas and troubleshooting experiments. Being able to “throw ideas at the wall and see what sticks” helped me become more independent and creative as a researcher.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future? 

After graduation, I will be working as a research technician at the VA in Providence, Rhode Island. There, I will be conducting research on the pathogenesis of right ventricular pulmonary hypertension for the next two years. Following that, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Laurentian Weekend. Inviting my parents and sister to campus gave them a real sense of life at St. Lawrence and allowed me to share my community with them.  

Trey Pierce

Major: Music 
Minors: Performance and Communication Arts; Digital Media and Film; Asian Studies 
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

While studying abroad in Thailand, I interned at a sustainable development organization focused on music and the arts. I coordinated artist relations, production, and operations logistics for Chiang Mai's international jazz festival. Upon returning to St. Lawrence, I took Global Jazz with Associate Professor of Music Fritz Schenker. This course deepened my perspective on an important music form, while allowing me to expand my career goals on an international scale. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

This spring, I was awarded the J. Richard Gilbert Award, recognizing my role in promoting interest and participation in music on campus. This award represents the culmination of my work for the Java Barn theme house and music venue as president, booking agent, and sound technician. Alongside my housemates, I have produced impactful music events for all of campus. This has influenced my career path and has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. 

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

I have a few. University Organist Michelle Martin-Atwood got me through freshman year as my First-Year Seminar professor and has shown me some much love and respect since. Associate Professor of Music In-Sil You and Professor Schenker have pushed me to do my best and invested in my passions. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Studying abroad in Thailand was life-changing. Also, skiing in the Tetons and becoming certified in avalanche rescue was a fun and challenging adventure! 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I am diving headfirst into a variety of music industry positions this summer, from production to promotion to booking for festivals and venues. Soon enough, I'd like to connect with a band and build my way up to tour management. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

I took Associate Director for Career Education Michelle Gould's Career Readiness course senior fall. It helped me fine tune my resume, cover letters, and professional profiles, while forming a realistic outlook on my career and finances. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Booking and running Thursday night shows at the Java Barn. It helped me to find passion in my career path and allowed me the opportunity to bring people together through music, which is the greatest gift that St. Lawrence could give me. 

Abby Barton 

Majors: English and Philosophy 
Hometown: Remsen, New York 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

I took a Virginia Woolf seminar with Associate Professor of English Sookyoung Lee, and it was, without a doubt, the greatest course I've taken. There is so much to unpack about Woolf's writing, so we had no shortage of material to work with. The personal connections that developed between my classmates made every discussion lively, fun, and insightful. The class perfectly blended the feeling of talking about great books with your friends and the opportunity to engage deeply with literary research. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

This year, I completed my English honors thesis on Thomas Hardy's novel, “Tess of the D'Urbervilles.” My paper explored Hardy’s use of classical myth and how he draws on narratives from Ovid to examine the continued oppression of women in the modern world. My work for the project began with independent research and translation work on Ovid's Metamorphoses. Then, when I began looking at classical reception in the 1890s, I was able to conduct archival research at the Bodleian libraries at the University of Oxford, thanks to a grant from CIIS. This project is so important to me because it allowed me to combine my interests in Victorian literature, classical mythology, and feminist theory. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Professor Sookyoung Lee has had the biggest influence on my academic interests. Since my first year, she has taken my interests seriously and has helped me make connections between ideas that I was afraid were too disparate. Those connections became the foundation of my proposals for graduate study.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Working as a tutor at the WORD Studio! My decision to become a writing tutor has challenged me in so many brilliant ways and has completely changed the way I think about writing. Tutoring has been so much more rewarding than I imagined, and the community that I found in the WORD Studio gave me some of my closest friendships. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

This fall, I am starting a Ph.D. in English literature at the Pennsylvania State University. I plan on concentrating on women's literature of the late Victorian period, paying particular attention to gender and the reception of the Greek and Roman Classics.

Aidan Fauth

Majors: Biology and Statistics 
Hometown: Keene, New Hampshire 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Applied Regression Analysis with Professor of Math, Computer Science, and Statistics Robin Lock solidified my decision to major in statistics and put me on the path to applying for graduate school. Professor Lock also became my advisor, and his inspiration and guidance have shaped my time at St. Lawrence and my future for the better. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 

Walking on to the men’s soccer team and winning the Liberty League Championship. The close-knit community gave me the connections I needed to succeed, and the fact that we went on to win the Liberty League made that team even more impactful. My teammates have been my family for all four years, but the first team shaped me as a player and human being. 

Who are your most influential Laurentian mentors? 

Professor of Biology Erika Barthelmess and Associate Professor of Statistics and Data Science Matt Higham were my faculty mentors for my two honors projects. I started doing research with Erika the summer before my senior year as a SLU Fellow. I conducted amazing fieldwork in the forests of St. Lawrence County, which turned into my year-long honors project. Erika's support, guidance, and passion for wildlife made this year of research really rewarding.  

Similarly, my work with Matt this semester also strengthened my passion for research and inspired me to pursue graduate school for statistics. I appreciated his constant encouragement and willingness to help with any problems. I also loved our weekly meetings which consisted of nerding-out and trouble-shooting the joys of code and AI.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

My semester abroad in Denmark was a life-changing experience. I met so many amazing people, especially my host family, as well as American students from other colleges. These are meaningful relationships that I will keep with me. Being immersed in another culture allowed me to embrace new perspectives and ways of living.  

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I will be attending Oregon State University to pursue a masters in statistics. A huge thank you to Professor Matt Higham, an alumnus of Oregon State, for helping me get in! I am looking forward to exploring the Northwest and continuing my academics. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Titus Weekend is really special. Everyone has a good time at Rail Jam, followed by skiing/snowboarding on the mountain. It shows how strong the St. Lawrence community is. Everyone comes together in their crazy outfits, and it’s a great way to close out the winter season. 

Lauren Trexler

Major: Conservation Biology 
Minor: Art and Art History 
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

The Conservation Biology Capstone course that I took this year. We explored a plethora of subjects to prepare us for a career in the conservation field. We also completed a semester-long case study. It was rigorous, but I learned so much, and Professor of Biology Erika Barthelmess is such a fantastic professor that every challenging assignment was worth it! 

What would you say is your proudest accomplishment?  

I am most proud of qualifying for the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association Nationals this year! 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Professor Erika Barthelmess. She has not only been my academic advisor for three years, but also a friend and support system. She makes every class engaging and finds unique ways to make complicated subjects easy to understand. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

Going abroad during my junior spring to Kenya was an absolutely life-changing experience! I had never been out of the county for more than a week or two, so being able to immerse myself in an entirely new place was unforgettable. I will always cherish the memories I made with my KSP cohort. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I am going to Minnesota in August to be a graduate naturalist at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center! I am going to take classes for master's credits, complete an independent study, and teach K-12 students about the natural world. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Peak Weekend! I have hiked 12 High Peaks in the past four years, almost all during Peak Weekend. Each hike is incredibly challenging, but every trip creates the best memories (and offers some pretty great views, too). 

Nico Alexander

Majors: Environmental Studies and Economics 
Minor: Asian Studies 
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota 

What is one class that positively impacted you?  

Industrial Organization with A. Barton Hepburn Associate Professor of Economics Brian Chezum. It was one of the first real upper-level courses I took for my major. It was rewarding being able to synthesize concepts I had previously learned and take them farther. Doing well in this class gave me confidence that I could succeed in any class I took. 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?  

As the captain of the Nordic ski team during my senior year, I found it really rewarding to see the younger guys I had worked with improve. Watching others’ hard work pay off is something I have always enjoyed. At our regional championships, we had one of the best days in recent memory as a team. It was the culmination of several years of hard work and an experience the team can use as a springboard for the coming season.  

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Professor and Chair of Education Jeff Frank. Jeff was my professor in the Commons College class for three semesters, and he was super influential in my experience. He is one of the most well-spoken people I have ever encountered and really helped me become more comfortable and confident when having honest conversations.  

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

I took a three-week abroad course in Accra, Ghana. It was a really cool experience going to a place that I had never been before. While a semester abroad did not fit into my schedule due to the ski season and training, I was very happy to get to experience a smaller version of off-campus study in a unique and fun city. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

This fall, I will be attending American University in Washington D.C. to get my master's in sustainability management. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

The Center helped me turn my resume into something professional and real. They also helped me when applying to grad school. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

I love school events like Rail Jam that bring the whole student body together outside on campus. 

Jackson Malary 

Majors: Economics and Business in the Liberal Arts 
Minor: Statistics 
Hometown: Madison, Connecticut 

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?  

Helping to establish the St. Lawrence Men's Soccer Alumni Mentorship Program. For an independent study with Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Franco Bari, I worked with both University Advancement and the Center for Career Excellence to put together a program connecting past and present St. Lawrence men's soccer players. This was especially meaningful to me, as both of my parents are St. Lawrence alums. 

Who is your most influential Laurentian mentor? 

Throughout my time at St. Lawrence, I've been fortunate to have several mentors, but none as important as my father, John Malary '98. A fellow Saint and former men’s soccer player, he could offer advice that came from genuine, firsthand experience. From the long trips to see my games, to the midday phone calls with whatever random question was on my mind, to the week and a half he spent with me in a hotel room after my hip surgery, there were countless moments, big and small, that made an impact on me. 

What is the greatest adventure you embarked on at St. Lawrence?  

My semester abroad in London. I had never experienced living in a different country, and it helped me grow in many ways. Every day was a new adventure. I could take the Tube to almost anywhere and explore somewhere I had never been. It was also incredibly easy to travel to and from London, and I was able to explore many countries across Europe. 

What do you plan to pursue in the future?  

I recently accepted an offer to work at Baystate Financial out of its Wakefield, Massachusetts office. I will be working for alumnus Peter Petri '93 and am excited to take what I have learned at St. Lawrence and apply it in my next chapter. 

How did the Center for Career Excellence help you in your pursuit of professional opportunities? 

I had my first appointment with the Center for Career Excellence to put together my resume during my sophomore year. Since then, I have utilized the Center extensively for networking and my internship and job search. It's a great resource that helped me land my job post-grad. 

What is your favorite St. Lawrence tradition? 

Ringing the Victory Bell. During my first semester on campus, our team won the Liberty League Championship at home after an incredibly successful season. After the final whistle blew, our entire team ran up the hill to the Bell, where we rang it for the whole campus to hear.