Being a part of the Seton Hall community over the past four years has been more than just a blessing; it has been a defining chapter of my life, filled with growth, challenges, and moments I will carry with me forever.
Joining The Sapphires, my freshman year, became one of the most impactful parts of my college experience. From the very beginning, I found not only a team, but a family, creating countless memories and friendships that have shaped my time here in ways I could have never imagined. Fast forward to my senior year, and having the honor of serving as captain has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences.
Some of my favorite memories include dancing with my teammates at the Prudential Center and Madison Square Garden, as well as traveling to Indiana with the basketball team in 2024 when we won the NIT tournament. To all the game days and moments, filled with energy, pride, and excitement, are the memories I will cherish forever and will always remind me of the incredible team I was a part of.
Alongside dance, I was fortunate to learn from such inspiring professors within the Graphic Design program, who continuously pushed me to grow creatively and think beyond my limits. Each semester allowed me to build upon my skills, shaping me into the designer I am today, all while feeling their constant and unwavering support.
Outside of the classroom, being involved in Creative Types, SHU’s design club, where I ran the social media, allowed me to apply my creativity in a real-world setting. From there, becoming an assistant graphic designer for The Setonian further pushed my skill level and refined my design voice in a professional environment. Through their mentorship and guidance, my professors have truly prepared me for what lies ahead, and I owe so much of my growth to them.
What has made SHU so special, though, goes beyond academics and extracurriculars; it’s the people. From teammates to professors to friends who became family, I have always felt supported, welcomed, and encouraged to be my authentic self. It is because of this environment that I have never once regretted choosing SHU, and I will forever be grateful for the memories and relationships I have built here.
As I step into this next chapter, whatever it may hold, I carry all of these experiences with me. SHU didn’t just shape me academically; it shaped who I am as a person, a leader, and as a designer. From late nights balancing design projects and practices, to the energy of game days, to the countless nights spent with my housemates, every moment of this journey has been meaningful in its own way.
While it is bittersweet to say goodbye to South Orange, I know this is not an ending, but rather the beginning of everything I have been working towards. SHU has given me the confidence to step into the future with purpose, passion, and gratitude. I will always carry a piece of this place with me, and I am beyond excited to see where life takes me next.
Alyssa Stall is the assistant graphics editor of The Setonian. She can be reached at alyssa.stall@student.shu.edu.
