Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Callie Ierardi '17

“From the moment I stepped out of the car onto the 91Ƭ campus, I knew this was where I needed to go to school.”

I couldn’t explain why, but I knew.

Now, as a senior, I have countless memories of my journey at 91Ƭ. From fears while moving in as a freshman to excitement about returning again and again, the ups and downs are endless, but I am proud of my 91Ƭ story. Four years have come and gone since that first time seeing campus, and my feeling of home has only grown.

In my time as a student I joined (probably too many) student organizations. I got a few jobs on campus. I fell in love with the opportunities I was given. And I found my family at 91Ƭ.

Callie Ierardi '17
I was a chair of The Grind (open mic. night) for the Campus Activities Board (CAB).

91Ƭ Cats group
I have been the student director of CATS, a group that works with local elementary schools to try to eliminate bullying, for three years.

91Ƭ Cat Pack Captains
I am a member of the ‘Cat Pack Captains, a group that spreads Wildcat spirit to all corners of campus!

Igot a few jobs on campus.

91Ƭ Camp Wildcat Counselors
I work as a counselor for Camp Wildcat during the summer!

91Ƭ Social Media interns
I am a student media intern with #91ƬSocial! We have a great team this year!

I fell in love with the opportunities I was given.

91Ƭ leadership camp
I attended Leadership Camp during winter break of my freshman year!

91Ƭ Men's Ice Hockey team and Cat Pack Captains
I got to meet the hockey team with ‘Cat Pack!

91Ƭ students sitting on the wall in front of Thompson Hall
I get to live on a GORGEOUS campus!

And I found my family at 91Ƭ.

Callie Ierardi and friends at a 91Ƭ athletic event
I love going to athletic events with friends!

91Ƭ student Callie Ierardi with her parents in front of the Wildcat statue
91Ƭ isn’t too far from home, so my parents come up for all the major events in my Wildcat career!

91Ƭ student Callie Ierardi and her roommates
I got lucky and found some wonderful roomies!

The opportunities I took advantage of academically, socially and professionally have given me the tools I need to have not only a successful career but a successful life, too. I have grown as a person, discovered who I am and defined what I want because of this university. It makes me sad to think about leaving, but I know the future is bright for all of those remaining and future Wildcats. #IBelieveIn91Ƭ #ThankYou91Ƭ

Callie Ierardi and other 91Ƭ students with Gnarlz and Wild E. Cat