Michael Rosati, the 2017 VSMF CT Scholarship winner, just completed his freshman year at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. We caught up with Michael to see how his first year there went and what he thinks of college life so far.
Michael said, “I love going to school at Salve. I enjoy the small campus environment where I can recognize almost all the faces I see. Additionally, living and going to school right on the water is the best. I love being in walking distance to the beach and having the ocean always in view! I have been making some amazing friends and having a lot of fun – so far, college life has been great.
I am still double majoring in elementary and special education and I have already taken several education classes. I finished my freshman year making Dean’s List! I also have begun my testing for my teaching certification. So far I have passed my special education, science, social studies, and english language arts praxis exams. I still have to take two more.
I have been getting heavily involved on campus. I have been involved in campus ministry, a leadership program, and my favorite, Salve’s chapter of Best Buddies. I was even elected treasurer for next year! I am excited to get more involved with the club. I love working with and befriending all the people who are often marginalized because of their disabilities (such as autism, down syndrome…etc.).
This summer I am working at Sterling House Day Camp in Stratford, CT. I am the gym director, so essentially the physical education teacher of camp. I facilitate games such as kickball, dodgeball…etc. for all the campers. I see about 175 campers a day in grades pre-k through 8th grade! I love working with kids all summer, I can’t imagine spending my summer any other way!”
What a great update from Michael! We are so proud of him for all of his tremendous accomplishments, making Dean’s List, passing praxis exams, completing his course work, and finding additional time to volunteer with Best Buddies. We are excited to see what is ahead for him in his Sophomore Year! Enjoy the rest of your summer Michael and tell Sterling House we say hello!
