Meet Graduate Student Ambassador Morgan Morris

Describe your interest in your academic program and what you hope to gain from it.

I'm interested in interpersonal communication and I've been able to use the skills I've learned in my newfound interest of educational advancement, which is basically fundraising for colleges and universities. Next year, I hope to enter in the field working in annual gifts or alumni relations.

What is your favorite course you’ve taken so far? If you are in your first year, what course are you most looking forward to in your program? Why?

Journalism. This class has made me aware of how I consume the news, but also what truths the news can reveal when it is broadcasted online and on television.  

What are a few things you would like to share with prospective students regarding the Villanova student experience?

Last year was the first time I moved away from Buffalo, so it took some time for me adjust to my new routine, but if I were to repeat this journey over, I wouldn’t change a thing. Villanova is truly a special place and has a lot of opportunities for students to succeed and thrive here and beyond. If you are hesitant whether to take that leap of faith to get a premier, educational experience, I suggest you look no further than Villanova University!

How do you maintain a good school/life balance?

I have a weekly to-do list to keep myself on top of tasks for my assistantship, classes and monthly responsibilities. I also make sure to put events on my calendar to hang out with my classmates, call someone from back home, etc. I do this to show that my priorities are balanced between my responsibilities as a student and my responsibilities as a person, friend, family member, etc. On days where I want to silence the voices in my head, I also make time for that.

If you’re living around Villanova, what are one to two “must do” experiences you would suggest to students new to Villanova and the surrounding area including Philadelphia? 

You absolutely must check out the Magic Gardens on South St. (the venue is completely covered in mosaic that reflects in the Sun!). If you're into going to concerts, look no further than Philly as there are plenty of music artists who come to the area! Since I've been there, I have been able to see NeYo, Jason Derulo, The Script, Tori Kelly, Mary J Blige (twice!), Ella Mai and more!

Describe what it means to be a graduate student at Villanova. In other words, why Villanova?

Being a graduate student at Villanova means so much to me. I feel a sense of pride when I tell people I go to school here and am proud of my decision to move down here last year. At Villanova, you will encounter the best of the best individuals committed to their studies and dedicated to upholding the values of the institution. People here are “becoming what they are not yet” and you will soon be on the road to self-discovery as you become a better person than when you started here. I've only been here a month, but so far everyone has been very welcoming and helpful.