As a first-generation college student motivated to push her limits and pursue academic excellence, Alyssa Raimondi, '24, found that her experience with Marist's Center for Social Media helped shape her future.
 
As a high school student, Alyssa's first college tour was at Marist. She was attracted to its strong Communication program, excellent reputation, and hands-on learning approach. After comparing other institutions to Marist, she ultimately decided to join the Red Fox Family.
 
During her undergraduate studies, Alyssa interned at Marist's Center for Social Media within the School of Communication and the Arts. This experience helped her further develop and enhance her communication skills. She had the opportunity to collaborate closely with the Center for Social Media team to improve the department's online presence, create social media posts, increase engagement, and contribute to the School's social media strategy.
 
She attributes much of her experience to Dr. Amanda Damiano, associate professor of communication and director of the Center for Social Media. "Dr. Damiano's guidance and support were invaluable. She was a great mentor and a source of constant inspiration, always encouraging me to think creatively. Her mentorship played a crucial role in my professional and personal development during my time at Marist."
 
In addition to her contributions within the Center for Social Media, Alyssa became actively involved with the Marist Institute for Public Opinion (MIPO). She reflects on this experience as a time when she developed strong verbal communication skills and learned to navigate conversations effectively. "This experience helped with my leadership abilities and improved my ability to communicate confidently and persuasively in a professional setting," she says.
 
After completing four internships, studying abroad at Marist's Florence, Italy campus, and receiving the School of Communication and the Arts Outstanding Achievement in Public Relations award, the received the Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Communication award, and the Marist Institute for Public Opinion Excellence Baccalaureate award, Alyssa now aims to obtain a Master's degree in Marketing Communication with a concentration in Digital Marketing Communication. "As I progressed in my studies, I realized that continuing my education with a master's degree had become increasingly important...I wanted to push my abilities, challenge myself academically, and deepen my understanding of the Communication field, and I could not picture myself pursuing any other career."