‘Giving Back to the University is the First Step in My Journey’

Throughout my time at the University, I have had the privilege of participating in many incredible events. The one that particularly stands out is when I had the honor of being a student speaker at the virtual grand opening of the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation. It was then that I gained even more appreciation for the University, as well as all of the resources it has provided me and my peers since I first stepped foot on campus.

Going into my senior year as a communication major, I’ve spent countless hours in the newly minted Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation, writing scripts for film class assignments, improving my video editing skills, and hanging out with fellow communication majors, discussing our post-graduation plans and goals.

My time at the University has taught me so much about the value of time management, teamwork, responsibility, and, most importantly, philanthropy. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with the University’s Advancement Office to promote the message of “giving back” to the University community by spreading the message of philanthropy through events. Since we, as students, are the ones who are most impacted by the generous donations of others, making sure no student gets left behind, no matter what their intended field, is paramount to my mission as a representative of the office.

As a graduating senior, I can now look back at my four years and say that I’ve accomplished a lot and have crafted a path toward success while being supported by the University. That being said, this is only the beginning. Giving back to the University is the first step in my journey. I hope that students and alumni continue to do so as well to help benefit the future of the University.

I’m very proud to have been able to attend the University of New Haven, and I will always value the memories and experiences I’ve had with the friends I’ve made, faculty who have taught me, and the mentors who have guided me. Once a Charger, always a Charger.

Tiara Starks ’22 is a communication major at the University of New Haven. Invest in her and her classmates’ success by making a contribution to the University as part of the worldwide celebration of Giving Tuesday.