"My name is Kaylah Howard, and I am a black young entrepreneur in college. My career goals direct me to entrepreneurship. I was recommended the interdisciplinary studies major by a professor in the communication department. The degree was perfect for me; I was just unaware of it.

I loved getting my communications degree and believe those classes helped me excel but paired with adding marketing, I was even more equipped with a major custom tailored to my needs. Last summer, I had an internship at Foxwoods resort and casino in the advertising department, where I specialized in creating TikToks for the liquid Sunday pool party.

In 2022 I was involved in a young entrepreneurship pitch competition, where college students pitch their business plans. I believe it was opportunities like this at Southern that allowed me to further explore career options in both public speaking and entrepreneurship. Post-graduation plans include applying for grad school for my MBA and entering the field of entertainment while continuing my entrepreneurship path."

"I am a senior Honors College student passionate about genocide prevention, pursuing a career in law and international relations. I am a double major in IDS and Political Science.

I wanted more opportunities to get an interdisciplinary understanding of political science, so I added Global Studies to gain perspectives in sociology, environmental studies, and anthropology. I also enjoy writing and wanted to improve my skills, so the English concentration allowed for that.

Currently, I am writing my senior thesis and preparing for a service-learning study abroad trip to Israel and the West Bank. I will be volunteering with non-profits and learning more about grassroots reconciliation processes. I definitely want to end up in the international law/non-profit sector."

"My name is Giancarlos Diaz Espinal, and I was born in the Dominican Republic. I have one brother and one sister that also attend SCSU. I enjoy making people laugh and seeing a smile on their faces—I feel like it is my job to lighten up the mood wherever I am.

Graduating from SCSU is important to me because my parents went through so much to give me the education I deserve. I feel like them seeing me graduate is a perfect way to say thank you for everything you have done for me.

You can find me in a school working with students and making sure they are on the right path to success. I have been working at Conte West Hill PreK-8 and enjoy every single day of work. I can't wait to continue working with students for many more years."

"Hey everybody! I'm Precious but you can call me Berry. I'm a Junior here at Southern, but I'm also a business owner. I love all things health, fitness, and skincare!

I chose an IDS major after spending 2 years as a Biology major. I realized that science was only one of many interests so I chose to customize what my degree would consist of! Going the IDS route was a win-win situation.

My favorite experience as a student was definitely becoming a Peer Mentor. I met so many incredible people that will forever hold a space in my heart and I learned what it means to be a leader! You'll find me running a bilingual, inclusive, health and wellness business and partnering up with incredible leaders all across the world! But for now, you can find me on Instagram!"

"My name is Natanael Barbosa Torres—first generation student from Willimantic CT. I'm a hardworking person who perseveres through any adversity that I face. I'm proud I chose to attend Southern; I've had some great professors in my time here.

I couldn't decide what major I liked more between Business Administration and Communications and sat down with my advisor who taught me what IDS was. After they explained it to me I thought to myself, "Where do I sign up?" It sounded like the perfect major for me.

My favorite memory at SCSU is going from academic probation to Dean's List. I couldn't have done this without the help of Britt Conroy. Being on two sports teams (football and track) also helped me stay focused because I realized I had people counting on me that I could not let down."

"Rose Mutale's parents emigrated to the United States from Zambia, in southern Africa, when she was just a young girl. She stayed behind for several years, living with friends and extended family members. That's when she experienced period poverty—not having access to proper menstrual hygiene products.

Now, at age 29, the first-generation student is graduating with a BS in interdisciplinary studies from Southern and leads For Her Pride, a nonprofit organization "fighting to end period poverty and provide resources and access to educational opportunities through advocacy, service and education."