Student Stories

My name is Mikayla Aquino (they/she), and I'm a sophomore majoring in Education and Gender, Sexuality, and Intersectionality Studies. I first learned about Connecticut College through the Posse Foundation Scholarship, which has been instrumental in providing me with the financial assistance and resources necessary for success as a Hispanic, queer, second-generation student. Both Conn and Posse have fostered a supportive environment where I've been able to thrive. The interdisciplinary approach to classes at Conn has been particularly enriching, allowing me to explore all my interests and passions without limitations. My role as Co-Chair for the Women of Color + Collective has also been profoundly transformative, offering a space where I can grow and express myself authentically without fear of judgment.

Without financial aid, attending college would have been a huge hurdle for me and without the support of generous donors, I wouldn't have had the privilege of being part of an affinity group like the Women of Color + Collective, where I can be a part of a supportive, inclusive, and empowering community. It's crucial for individuals to contribute to initiatives like Financial Aid/Scholarships and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at colleges like ours. Alumni and parent support ensures that students from diverse backgrounds have the resources and communities they need to thrive. Your donations can make a significant difference in the lives of students like me, providing opportunities and support that otherwise wouldn't be available.

I came into Connecticut College unsure of what I would like to do, and am leaving a double major in Biological Studies and Government. Connecticut College has allowed me the grace to figure out what I would like to study after already enrolling. 

The location of Connecticut College has increased the quality of my education tenfold. I have been able to take Fisheries Biology at the Coast Guard, got my AAUS Scientific Scuba Certification at UConn Avery Point, and have volunteered behind the scenes at the Mystic Aquarium. Having these experiences in addition to Conn’s education has opened up many doors for me post graduation already! 

The financial support of Conn’s Career Prep Program and the study away office has allowed me to be a Visiting Scientist at the University of Tasmania in Australia. Conn’s financial flexibility allowed me the opportunity to focus finding the jobs that I wanted, regardless of whether or not it was available to interns; therefore, I was able to partner on a Masters Student’s thesis on toxic algae, which has been pivotal in creating my own thesis at Conn on algicidal chemical toxicology - for which Conn is sending me to present on in South Carolina next month!

As an International student, who belongs from a low income family, my dream of studying in the USA would not be possible if Conn didn’t provide me full financial support with its aid and scholarships. Conn made it possible for me to attend a college in the states and experience all the unique opportunities, such as its amazing curriculum Connection. Conn also has some amazing community, mention worthy- ISA. I found my people here from all over the world. I got such a nice group of friends because of ISA and because of them I am learning different things everyday. My leadership skill enhanced after I came here as I am leading the Muslim Students Group as a president. Addition to that, I also got a chance to teach my native language (Bengali)  here because of its amazing SILS program. I also volunteered on World Language Day to teach my language to elementary school kids. That was one of the best experiences here so far. Conn is giving me an opportunity to explore my passion and interest in the class and also outside of the classroom. So, I just wanted to say thank you for your gift. It really shows that you care about Connecticut College and the students here. Your support helps us do what we love, whether it's arts, sports, science, or anything else! Go Camels!

I came to Conn with the intent to study film; I had been impressed by the depth of the film department as it was portrayed on the website. Once I began taking classes, I was not at all disappointed. The department has provided me with amazing learning experiences from classes that teach me how to act as a professional on a film set to understanding the implications that all stages of production have for a film’s message, representation, and understanding. Furthermore, Conn has allowed me to access other areas of my interests through the centers and pathways programs. The Ammerman Center for Art and Technology has provided me with an opportunity to investigate animatronic puppeteering in film as well as pursue the creation of my own puppet. Through Conn’s programs, Film Studies, and the career center I have been able to use what I have learned in a work environment gaining skills that I can craft into a resume I am proud of. Recently Film Studies was given their first ever headquarters on campus, without the generous gifts from alumni none of this would have been possible.