Jessica Stone
Bachelor of Art in Human Development: School & Society,’15
Merrimack College Master of Education in Community Engagement (M.Ed ’16)
Graduate Fellow for Bread and Roses in Lawrence, Massachusetts
“Merrimack’s community is so strong and passionate. I love being a part of a community that has a mission to help others in need. It is so unbelievable to see people come together and make a difference.”
Jessica Stone has always had a passion for helping others. Arriving at Merrimack with a career path set on becoming an elementary school teacher, Jessica slowly drifted towards a passion for helping communities in need. With this realization, and a bachelor’s degree under her belt, she decided to apply to Merrimack’s Community Engagement Fellowship Master’s Program. As part of the Community Engagement program, Jessica is completing her fellowship at Bread and Roses in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Her position includes grant writing, volunteer management, and office administration. “It is a big year of transition for me, but I am lucky to have the Merrimack community and my fellow students to lean on.”
Jessica plans to graduate with her M.Ed in May 2016 and pursue a career in the Boston school system. “I would love to work in a family, student, and community engagement service program. I have such a strong passion for children and their education. I want to make sure that they can love and enjoy learning just like I always have.”
During her undergraduate studies, Jessica realized the importance of becoming involved on campus and found out how much Merrimack had to offer. She was part of the Relay for Life Committee, Class Council, Orientation, Jumpstart, M.O.R.E. retreats, Alternative Break Programs, Student Conduct Board, worked for the SAK/MAC Campus Center Staff and took part in short term study abroad programs to Ireland and Italy.
What is your favorite Merrimack memory?
I don’t think it is possible for me to pick my favorite Merrimack memory. I loved attending Homecoming and Relay for Life every year. Yet, joining the Orientation Committee my senior year was probably one of my favorites. I made countless memories and everlasting friendships. The Orientation Committee members are a family that I know I will always be a part of. This experience taught me so much about myself, and made me connect with the Merrimack community even more than before.
Why are you Merrimack Proud?
“I am Merrimack Proud because Merrimack is home to me. Pulling onto campus I always feel a weight is being taken off my shoulders. I feel so much happier and at ease, it’s kind of weird. Walking around campus, I feel so much love and energy. The connection between students and staff is awesome. Personally, I can think of at least a dozen staff members that I can turn to for support, whether for comfort, or advice. I love being a part of a community that has a mission to help others in need. It is so unbelievable to see the Merrimack community come together and make a difference.”
