Alumni Spotlight

Sarah Grzymala '09

As I look forward to entering Syracuse University's masters program in Art History, I look back on my four years at Stonehill and realize how much I have grown. My willingness to try things outside my comfort zone has led me realize that no matter what I ultimately decide to do in life, I have made a firm academic and personal foundation here at Stonehill.

Finding my Passion

I entered as an English major, but quickly added a Fine Arts major after taking Prof. Sheckler's FA 181 Intro to Art History course. I discovered a love of art history that has led me to many wonderful classes and experiences.

In particular, my passion for art inspired me to sign up for the Learning Community (LC) "Pagans and Christians" with Professors Sheckler and Leith. This LC studied the art of ancient Greece and Rome along with the New Testament. The best part was the trip to Italy over Spring break where we visited Pompeii, Naples, and Rome. The class quickly bonded on the trip and it was one of the best experiences I ever had.

The LC also helped me to decide where I would study abroad. In the fall of 2007, I studied in Florence, Italy at Lorenzo de Medici. I grew to love Florence for the amazing art and history that it holds, as well as the ability to travel to other cities in Europe. I am now determined to find a career that could allow me to travel as often as I like!

Honing Professional Skills

I also worked at a number of internships throughout my years at Stonehill. Through assistance at Stonehill and through my own research, I was able to work at the Albany Institute of History and Art, the Stonehill Archive, Glimmerglass Opera House and the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton. All of these helped me discover my interest in museum studies and exhibitions, which I hope will become my career.

I feel extremely confident in all of the skills I gained through the internships and in what I can offer to future employers or graduate programs.