"I always knew I wanted to become a teacher, and CNR has a variety of teacher certification programs from which to choose. I was also attracted to the College becauseof the location. I could be away at school, and also close to home. I also loved the small school environment of the College. I knew that at CNR I would receive the individualized attention that would help me prepare for my future. " Allison Ippoliti Class of 2009 Religious Studies and Psychology School of Arts & Sciences The College of New Rochelle

Allison, where are you from?

I’m from Yonkers, New York.

And you are a student in the School of Arts and Sciences?

Yes, and I’m graduating in 2009.

Why did you decide to attend The College of New Rochelle?

I guess, thinking back, it was because I always knew I wanted to become a teacher, and CNR has a variety of teacher certification programs from which to choose. I was also attracted to the College becauseof the location. I could be away at school, and also close to home. I also loved the small school environment of the College. I knew that at CNR I would receive the individualized attention that would help me prepare for my future. 

What other colleges accepted you when you graduated from high school?

Since I was pretty sure I wanted to attend CNR, I did not apply to many other schools. However, just in case, I applied and was accepted to Manhattanville, Boston College, and Fordham University, but still CNR was my first choice.

What is your major?

I have two majors: Religious Studies and Psychology. And, I am also in the elementary education teacher certification program.

What are some of the activities that you are involved with on campus?

Most of my extracurricular work is with the wonderful Campus Ministry activities. I serve as an Eucharistic Minister and as a Lector during the College liturgies. I have participated in the Urban Plunge to Hale House that is organized by Campus Ministry. I am also a volunteer at the after-school music program for children called Songcatchers, which I learned about through Campus Ministry. In addition, I work on campus as a tutor with Learning Support Services.

Tell us about some of your professors.

My favorite professors are those from the disciplines I am studying: religious studies, psychology and education. These professors all have great enthusiasm for their fields. And they have encouraged me to explore these disciplines and to apply the knowledge I have gained. My favorite classes are those that have allowed me to relate the material to my own life. I love having the ability to use what I am learning in college to better understand myself, who I am and where I come from. 

What do you think makes CNR a special college?

For me, CNR is special because it has made it possible for me to develop a close, mentoring relationship with many of my professors. I love that all of my professors know my name, and they stop and say hello to me on campus. My relationships with my professors have given me the opportunity to excel in my studies. They have encouraged me to go beyond completing the basic assignments in order to develop a deeper understanding of the material. Since they are all very approachable, I am comfortable about asking questions and sharing my ideas. This opportunity has helped me as a student and also made my life on campus so much more fun.   

What are you career plans, Allison?

After I graduate I’m going to earn my master in education, possibly special education. And once I complete my certification, I plan to teach at the elementary level in either general education or special education in a public school in the Westchester area.

To find out if  CNR is the right choice for you, please contact: School of Arts & Sciences Office of Admission The College of New Rochelle 29 Castle Place New Rochelle, NY 10805 914-654-5334  email: admission@cnr.edu