Jillian Pallone
SUNY Nassau Valedictorian, Class of 2016
My decision to go to SUNY Nassau was not an easy one to make. I originally put down a deposit for another university. That university was going to cost my family a tremendous amount of money. I ultimately withdrew my deposit and enrolled at Nassau Community College. Little did I know this was the best decision for myself academically, financially and socially! When I began my classes and got involved in the SUNY Nassau community I saw that the stereotypical viewpoint that community college was not the best option was totally wrong!
My experience at SUNY Nassau was one of self-discovery and life lessons learned. The College is the type of place where if you want to be just a commuter student and go home after classes that's fine. But if you want to get involved there are lots of clubs that are structured to involve all different types of students and their interests. During my time at SUNY Nassau I met many wonderful people from all different walks of life, some of whom are lifelong friends. This time in my life was also a crucial time for me, where I learned how to learn with the help of some amazing and supportive professors. They inspired me to work hard and overcome my obstacles. It is really them I have to thank for my success!
As I thought about my fondest memory at SUNY Nassau, I had flashbacks of so many exciting experiences. One of my favorites was when I got to go on a field trip to the Bronx Zoo with the Future Teachers Club. I remember that day being a great opportunity to meet new people and strengthen the bonds I already had with existing friends.
When I first received the phone call that I was going to be valedictorian it seemed so surreal. Giving my speech to such an amazing group of people will always be one of the proudest moments of my life.
After I graduated from SUNY Nassau I attended Hofstra University on a scholarship and then graduated with a master's degree. Currently I am a high school history teacher in Dobbs Ferry, New York.
Recent Posts
Albert Vathapally
My decision to attend NCC after high school stemmed from a variety of reasons. I had a lack of direction on what career to pursue, and I certainly noted the astronomical tuition costs at the schools that offered me admission. When doing my research, I noticed NCC's commitment towards its students.
Jun 7, 2023 | NCC
Elizabeth Stemmler
I am a first-generation college student and have been paying my way through college. I had previously attended NCC because of its affordability and location. I had such good memories from my first time attending that it made sense to go back to finish my degree. People also recommended Nassau's Surgical Technology program to me because it is one of the best in the area.
Jun 7, 2023 | NCC
Kyra Cardoso
Kyra Cardoso chose to come to Nassau Community College for its affordability and for the opportunity to earn a degree in acting. She recently acted in Noel Calloway’s "Mr. Santa," a movie about restoring the Christmas spirit.
Jun 1, 2023 | NCC
Anabella Segura Rivero
Anabella Segura Rivero was awarded the SUNY Empire Diversity Honors Scholarship "I finished high school in Peru in 2004, graduated from a technical school in 2006, and at age 17 immediately got a job at a law firm in my hometown.
Jan 31, 2023 | NCC
Daniel Acevedo
Going back to school was honestly the best choice for me. As an adult student, I felt focused and goal driven because I knew the expectations of the real world. The NCC - SUNY Empire State College Multi-Award Nursing Program prepared me for my future in so many ways.
Jan 12, 2023 | NCC
Regina Halstead
NCC was a smart choice for me because I wasn't really sure what my passion was. Nassau gave me a chance to figure it out while not having to carry the financial burden of switching my major should I want to make a change.
Dec 2, 2022 | NCC
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