Hello, my name is Carly Ostasiewski and I am a sophomore pursing a major in International Affairs and a minor in Spanish. I am from a small city in central Connecticut named Meriden. I have always wanted to live in Boston and that is why I chose Suffolk University. The ideal location allows you to live amongst history and culture. Along with studying at Suffolk and working in the Retention Office, I also lifeguard over the river at MIT.

As a freshman coming from a small city in Connecticut I am aware of how overwhelming the city may appear. My goal as a Retention Scholar is to make students feel as comfortable in Boston as they would in their hometowns. The best way to do this is make yourself known to the campus by joining the numerous clubs and organizations we have at Suffolk University. This is a great way to not only meet people but see the city of Boston. My freshman year I worked with two different organizations that took me to both the Dorchester and East Boston sections of the city, without the push from these groups I would have never left campus or learned to navigate the city with ease. Getting involved in campus organizations is a key way in seeing the city like a true Bostonian and meeting numerous Suffolk University students who will become some of your best friends.