Meet Graduate Student Ambassador Cecily Ritchie

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

Villanova’s course offerings for the Higher Education Leadership concentration give me full confidence that their program would prepare me for working in higher education environments and with students. I hope to gain a holistic understanding of the field and find ways where I can contribute to the success of higher education, specifically with student development.

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?

I am looking forward to taking Contemporary Issues in American Higher Education. I feel that this course will allow me to see where Higher Education can be improved and provide more insight into this field that I’m entering.

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

The Villanova student community is great! There are so many great events on campus and lots of ways to meet new people. There are also so many resources designed to help you succeed!

How do you maintain a good school/life balance?

I get my schoolwork done during the week, so then I have my weekends completely free. I use my off-days from class during the week to focus on work. I also use the Outlook calendar to schedule things with work, school and life so I can always know what I have coming up.

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? (Restaurants to eat, be...)

Check out the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, and explore the Main Line!

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

Villanova has passionate people that care so deeply about student success. As soon as I spoke to the faculty in the Higher Education Leadership program, I was completely sold on Villanova and I am fully confident in my decision to go here.