Coming back to NJCU after eleven years has been a remarkable journey of growth and reconnection. I began my college experience here in 2013, but life led me to other experiences that became formative chapters in my personal and professional life. Now, as a junior majoring in English with a concentration in Creative Writing, I’m diving back into academia, inspired by the opportunities to deepen my understanding and refine my craft.The years away were anything but a hiatus from learning. In addition to getting married and authoring three books, I took part in a two-man play that toured nationally, exploring the theme “What makes a man a man?”

This experience shaped my perspective on manhood and the complexities of identity. Life after COVID added new perspectives, underscoring the importance of resilience and adaptability—values I now bring back into the classroom.Returning to NJCU has allowed me to immerse myself in reading and discussions, learning from my peers and engaging with material that resonates with my journey. Financial support, such as waivers, made this return possible, allowing me to focus fully on what I love. Being a student again reminds me that growth is ongoing; learning truly is a lifelong pursuit.

With my passion for poetic expression, storytelling, and the stage, I envision using my degree in ways that transcend traditional paths. Returning to NJCU isn’t only about completing my degree; it’s about embracing growth, rediscovery, and the powerful role education plays in shaping our lives and perspectives.