Beatrice Carey, a class of 2013 Art major graduate, shares how Rowan University catapulted her international travel experience.
Beatrice’s journey at Rowan began from advice she received from an influential high school teacher of hers. Beatrice’s sister also attended Rowan, so she decided that it would be a good fit. Beatrice came through the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program, which proved to be an influential part of her college career. “The EOF program built such a great support system for me. I don’t think I would’ve gotten that from anywhere else.”
Freshman year, Beatrice got the opportunity to study abroad, but unfortunately, wasn’t able to because of financial restrictions. She turned this setback into motivation for success.
Sophomore year, she coached surfed for a summer in Northern England where she met locals studying at local universities. After her brief trip, the culture and taste of International living inspired her to work hard to one day come back. “I vowed that I would one day come back and attend University in London.” This became such a motivator for Beatrice. “Before that trip, I wasn’t sure I was going to finish school. But after I set that goal, I knew I had to.”
After this promise she made to herself: she went to work. For a year and a half, she worked multiple jobs at a local convenience store, Magnolia Elementary School, and even sold her artwork to earn enough money so she could go.
While earning her master’s degree, Beatrice met people from all over the world, traveled to other countries, and was a part of various student leadership organizations. She was the valedictorian of her graduating class and made a speech at her graduation. “I was able to come back as a more fulfilled artist and person.”
When asked if she had any advice for graduating Rowan students, Beatrice replied, “It’s okay to not have everything figured out. It’s okay not to have all of the pieces of your plan put together. Speaking from my experience, I had to work for a long time to reach my goal. As long as you are working hard for what you want, you’ll get where you need to be.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
