Since joining Student Alumni Association last fall, I have found myself spending a lot of time reflecting on my experience with this amazing organization. Like all groups on campus, Student Alumni Association plays a role in shaping the overall “UMass experience” of it’s members. While I know how Student Alumni Association has shaped my UMass experience, I was curious how other members of our organization felt about SAA. So, I reached out to our members and here is what they had to say:

“SAA has opened up so many windows for me. I can’t even put into words how grateful I am! It’s so nice to be a member of an organization where there’s such a level of inclusion (no member fees, no major/GPA requirement). I’ve been able to meet such a diverse group of people that have become some of my best friends, while still being able to develop professional skills and network. It is really the best of both worlds to have close personal connections with members as well as alumni!”
-Megan Brennan ‘19

 

 

“SAA has given me a home at UMass. I’ve met some of my closest friends and I’ve been able to develop personally and professionally.”
-Colleen Madden ‘18

 

 

 

“SAA has given me more opportunities than I could have ever imagined and has allowed me to make new lifelong friends and connections.”
-Amelia Wright ‘20

 

 

 

“SAA has helped me grow as a leader, develop as a professional, and has introduced me to my best friends”
-Shannon Emmett ‘19

 

 

“SAA has made me a better public speaker, helped me improve my presentation skills, and provided me opportunities to develop meaningful relationships with alumni.”
-Chris Craig ‘19

“SAA introduced me to some of my best friends, as well as campus traditions that I hadn’t previously known about”
-Zachary Richardson ‘19

 

 

 

“SAA has helped me open up to trying new things. It has taught me that all experience is good experience and has made me a more well-rounded individual”
-Morgan Gray ’19

 

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“SAA has allowed me to meet a lot of people that I may not have meet otherwise. It is also has provided me with so many new experiences and opportunities. I love SAA!”
-Brianna St. Don ‘19

 

 

While all UMass SAA members have a different experience, one thing is clear: SAA has benefited all of its members, providing them with new skills, opportunities and friends. I can say with confidence that for me, joining SAA was the best choice I have made since coming to UMass.

-Jamie Downer ‘19