When Jeremy Rivera was attending a state university, he felt himself becoming depressed. He said he struggled with anxiety and was failing to connect to the environment. So, he began researching other institutions, looking for a college with a good reputation, where he could better connect with classmates.
Jeremy Rivera ’23.
“I knew some of my friends already attended St. Joseph’s, so I figured to give this school a try,” Rivera, an SJC Long Island mathematics major with a concentration in adolescence education, said. “I can say without a doubt, it has been a complete 180 degree, and I have never been better.”
Now, Rivera can pursue his interests and make friends, all while staying happy and healthy in SJC Long Island’s student-centered environment.
“After my first semester here, I realized the students and faculty were people who I definitely connected with, and I feel that people actually care about your progress and how you’re doing in class,” said Rivera, who transferred to St. Joseph’s in spring 2019.
With more than 45 clubs and organizations to choose from, Rivera found ways to get involved on campus and interact with more students. He joined the Orientation Team and became a member of Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC).
“The club allows students, both believers and non-believers, to come and hang out,” Rivera, 26, of Mastic said. “It’s accepting of everyone and allows us to discuss deeply our beliefs and understanding of our purpose in life.”
Although he’s not on campus right now, Rivera remains engaged with his classmates virtually.
“I believe the college has adapted quickly in providing students the best possible college experience, provided the available resources,” he said.
