Meet the s.w.e.e.t. Peer Educators

Hometown: Shelton, CT
Major: Political Science
Minors: Business and Law & Justice
Fun/Random Fact: I’m bilingual. I speak Arabic and English!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T. because my freshman year was a challenging time for me. I struggled with adjusting to college life, feeling overwhelmed by the new environment, academic pressures, and being far from home. It was a tough transition, and I often felt like I didn’t have the support I needed. I don’t want others to feel that way, so I joined S.W.E.E.T. to help others who might be going through similar struggles. Through S.W.E.E.T., I have the opportunity to provide support, kindness, and understanding to my peers, helping them navigate the stresses of college life and prioritize their mental well-being. I want to be that person who can make a difference and let others know they’re not alone!

Hometown: Coventry, Rhode Island
Major: Psychology
Minors: Social Work, Leadership in Higher Education, Honors
Fun/Random Fact: I traveled to Toronto to see Taylor Swift in the Eras Tour!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T because I have a passion for helping others. I have been an Orientation Leader at SHU for two years now and it has been such a rewarding experience helping first year students to feel at home at SHU. I want to continue to make a positive impact on the SHU community and be part of a group of like minded students. I want to learn more about mental health advocacy and help to create and promote a positive and healthy environment for students at SHU!

Hometown: South Salem, NY
Major: Biology
Fun/Random Fact: I'm a twin!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T because supporting and uplifting those around me is something I'm truly passionate about. I want to help ensure that my peers at SHU feel welcomed and valued within our community. S.W.E.E.T also equips me with the skills to become a reliable resource for those in need of support.

Hometown: South Salem, NY
Major: Nursing
Fun/Random Fact: I am a twin!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I’ve always loved helping those around me. College is hard, and I’ve seen how students put their mental health to the side while trying to keep up with academic and social pressures. Student well-being and mental health are so important, and I want to help create an environment where students feel supported and understood. By joining SWEET, I can help students by listening, providing support, kindness and reminding them that they are not alone!

Hometown: South Salem, NY
Major: Marketing
Fun/Random Fact: I love to write/scrapbook!
Why I Joined SWEET: I've always had a passion for helping people around me whether it was big or small. The ability to even have some kind of positive impact on someone makes the community around me and myself feel much better. Advocating for mental health awareness and support plays a critical role in my peers’ overall well-being that can be carried throughout their time here at SHU and after.

Hometown: Chester, NY
Major: Nursing
Minor: Nutrition
Fun/Random Fact: Me and my dog are inseparable :)
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because of the amazing things it stands for. I am a big advocate for mental health and wanted to take the next step in helping improve my community. I believe in a college campus that supports its students and helps them in any way that they need.  College is a difficult time and I want to help people accomplish their goals!

Hometown: Norwalk, CT
Major: Psychology
Fun/Random Fact: I love to travel with my family!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I am passionate about helping those in my community here at Sacred Heart. College is a new chapter in our lives and while the transition may be easy for some, it is not as easy for all. It is my goal to help others who may be struggling to ensure that they are not alone and to help them through this chapter of their lives. I am eager to watch everyone thrive and succeed in their future endeavors here at Sacred Heart!

Hometown: Rocky Hill, CT
Majors: Psychology & Music Performance
Fun/Random Fact: I’m a twin!
Why I Joined SWEET: I decided to join S.W.E.E.T. because I am deeply passionate about health and wellness and genuinely enjoy supporting my community. During my two years as an RSA, I have seen firsthand how many students struggle with balancing academics, mental health and overall well-being, often without knowing where to turn for support. Being in a role where students trusted me and came to me during difficult moments showed me how important education, advocacy and peer support are in creating a healthy campus environment. Joining S.W.E.E.T. felt like a natural next step for me to continue growing as a leader while making an even greater impact on the SHU community. I want to help create a space where students feel supported, informed and empowered to prioritize their well-being and I am excited to contribute my experience, empathy and passion to this organization.

Hometown: Bridgeport, CT
Major: Nursing
Fun/Random Fact: My favorite food is ice cream!
Why I Joined SWEET: I’ve always cared deeply about helping the people around me, whether it’s through something big or just being there when someone needs support. Knowing I can make even a small positive difference means a lot to me and helps create a stronger, more connected community. Mental health advocacy is especially important to me because I understand how much support can impact someone’s overall well-being, not just during their time at SHU, but long after as well.

Hometown: Middletown, NJ
Majors: Marketing & Management
Minors: Digital Marketing & Global Business Management
Fun/Random Fact: My dream job is to be the first female CEO of The Walt Disney Company
Why I Joined SWEET: Having struggled with my mental health all my life, I wanted to be a part of something that could help others with the same issues. Being a resource to others who may be struggling is such an honor and I am so happy to be able to have that opportunity through SWEET.

Hometown: Randolph, NJ
Major: Psychology
Minor: Marketing
Fun/Random Fact: I love to draw
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET as I am passionate about prioritizing you, your health, and surrounding yourself in an environment where you can grow and glow. College is a difficult but important time for everyone to grow into the person they want to become. I want to be an advocate on campus for my peers and help them achieve their goals while keeping a healthy mindset through their journey here at SHU.

Hometown: Oakville, CT
Major: Exercise Science, Pre-OT
Fun/Random Fact: I was born with a neurological disorder and through occupational therapy was able to overcome much of its impact - this is what influenced my decision to become an OT!
Why I Joined SWEET: College can be a difficult transition because it involves leaving familiar surroundings, adjusting to a new academic workout, and navigating new social dynamics. I want to be a role model and resource for students who are seeking support and provide them with strategies on how they can enhance their emotional well-being!

Hometown: Airmont, NY
Major: Psychology
Minor: Honors
Fun/Random Fact: I love to travel!
Why I Joined SWEET: I’ve always been very passionate about helping others and being a supportive peer mentor in my community. By joining S.W.E.E.T, I can continue to foster an environment that brings awareness to and advocates for the mental and physical well-being of my peers at SHU. I’m honored to be a part of such a supportive and dedicated community, and excited to spread kindness and positivity with a wonderful team of people.

Hometown: Long Island, NY
Major: Exercise Science
Minor: Human Clinical Nutrition
Fun/Random Fact: I am a dancer
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I want to be a pillar of support for my peers. I would love to be the one that anyone could feel they could turn to in a time of need or just to talk. I also want to grow better as an individual in order to be better to help others. SWEET is a place where I saw myself being able to grow and help others as I did so. Also puppies.

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Major: Psychology
Fun/Random Fact: I like eating spicy things. If it's not spicy then I'll usually make it spicy but preferably very spicy.
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I like to help others and break the stigma surrounding mental health. During my time at SHU, I've noticed a lack of diversity on campus, which can make a student feel isolated, unseen, or like they don't belong, especially those from underrepresented cultural backgrounds such as mine, and it can be hard trying to navigate through a predominantly one race campus, especially having to be far from home and friends. One becomes vulnerable and out of place, as I experienced when moving from Brooklyn, NY, to Trumbull, CT, where I felt like I stood out like a sore thumb. Adjusting to a new environment was difficult, which many feel when coming to college and it encouraged me to join SWEET. I hope to be someone that students can turn to who understands their experiences and cultural background in ways others might not, while encouraging an environment where students feel supported, valued, and confident in their place here at Sacred Heart University.

Hometown: Franklin, MA
Major: Psychology
Minor: Educational Studies
Fun/Random Fact: I am learning to play the guitar
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I have faced many of the ups and downs of college and want to help create a supportive environment where students can feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Our mental health should be our #1 priority, and I hope to provide resources and spread awareness around campus.

Hometown: Orange, CT
Major: Psychology
Minor: Social Work
Fun/Random Fact: I used to foster dogs
Why I Joined SWEET: I came to SHU as a transfer student, struggling to make friends and struggling with my own mental health issues. When I found out that there was a group of people who not only wanted to improve our community's mental health, but could also make SHU a better place, I was sold and knew I needed to be a part of this amazing team. S.w.e.e.t. is an outlet for students, and in addition, is a community that shows our students and staff that mental health stigmas need to be stopped and we need to be more open about our struggles. That is why I wanted to join SWEET.

Hometown: Waltham, Massachusetts
Major: Biology (pre-med)
Fun/Random Fact: I love to go to the gym
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I love helping people in anyway I can. Mental health is a very big thing for me and I want to be able to help and advocate for people who need help or are struggling. Having any kind of positive impact on the community is so rewarding for me and by joining SWEET I hope to be able to do that. It is also nice to be part of a group that has the same feelings I do about mental health and wanting to help in any way possible.

Hometown: Franklin, MA
Major: Nursing
Fun/Random Fact: I donated 18 inches of hair last spring!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined Sweet because I wanted the opportunity to learn more about mental health and what it means to be a mental health advocate. Learning about mental health and being able to help others is the best thing to do for yourself and the people on this campus!

Hometown: Elmwood Park, NJ
Major: Business
Fun/Random Fact: I have a little green bird named Bee Bee!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I love people! SHU is a wonderful university, and I want to do my part in helping to keep the environment as wonderful as it is now. Also, SWEET is an amazing way to be in a community of people who share the same values!

Hometown: Secaucus, NJ
Major: Exercise Science
Fun/Random Fact: I am on the Track & Field team
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I believe mental health is such an important factor in our everyday lives. I believe focusing on our mental health can lead to a greater stress-free life. Recognizing that college can be very stressful and overwhelming, as a SWEET member, my goal is to provide ways to prioritize your health and wellness. Through collaborative efforts and a shared understanding, I aim to create a supportive community where every member feels supported in any factor of their lives.

Hometown: Mahwah, New Jersey
Major: Nursing
Fun/Random Fact: I performed at a New York Knicks game
Why I Joined SWEET: When I began looking into colleges I vowed to soak in all the opportunities surrounding me and get as involved as I can to begin to foster an entirely new community around me but also to make a difference. I’m not only a Peer Educator to make a difference and get involved, but to simultaneously be a part of something that is bigger than me. I want to be a part of a team who strives to constitute the healthiest, strongest and sweetest college experience and atmosphere for their peers as helping others be their best selves in any way I can is what I am most passionate about.

Hometown: Bronx, NY
Major: Psychology, Dual Degree in I/O Psychology
Minors: Catholic Studies and English
Fun/Random Fact: I'm a musical nerd! My favorite is Hamilton!
Why I Joined SWEET: I want to be an advocate and a support system for people who are also battling with mental health because I have battled with it myself and have family members who do as well. Being a member of SWEET gives me the opportunity to connect with people who need help, raise awareness of mental health issues, and be a part of a supportive community that looks out for everyone's mental health no matter what. I'm honored to support SHU's mission to keep a positive environment for everyone's mental health. Being able to be in this awesome group with these amazing people who inspire me every day makes me incredibly grateful!

Hometown: Trumbull, CT
Major: Social Work
Fun/Random Fact: I love to ride dirt bikes and quads!
Why I Joined SWEET: I have always loved helping people in many ways. I love to volunteer and be a part of organizations that I stand by such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Having struggled with my own mental health illnesses, I know how important it is to have someone be there for you. I want to be that friend and advocate I always wish I had to make people feel less alone!

Hometown: Pequannock, NJ
Major: Psychology/Occupational Therapy 3+2 Track
Minor: Honors
Fun/Random Fact: I have done color guard for 6 years!
Why I Joined SWEET: I wanted to be a part of a group that was welcoming and provides information on mental health awareness. SWEET was the perfect group for me. I love being able to connect with an amazing team of people and promote ways to improve student well-being. SWEET also has given me the opportunity to be myself because of the welcoming environment everyone has given me. I am so grateful to have been given this opportunity to be in this amazing group with these wonderful people who inspire me everyday.

Hometown: Maywood, NJ
Major: Exercise Science, 4+3 DPT Program
Fun/Random Fact: I am a group fitness trainer back at home!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because in high school, I always enjoyed helping others, being a student tutor and peer mentor. Coming to college I was looking for a program where I could also give back to my peers, and then I found SWEET. I am a huge advocate for fitness, and wellbeing and so being a peer educator, I hope to raise awareness to the importance of wellbeing while in college. I hope to leave a positive impact on the SHU community, and I am excited to work alongside a group of likeminded students while doing so!

Hometown: Long Valley, NJ
Major: Exercise Science, MSAT 3+2 track
Fun/Random Fact: I placed 9th in the state doing gymnastics when I was in elementary school
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined SWEET because I have always been one to help people. When coming to college, I was hoping to find something that I could join to be able to support the community. Being a part of this team is my way of getting involved and sharing positivity around campus.

Hometown: Cheshire, CT
Major: Communication Disorders 3 + 2 track
Minor: Educational Studies
Fun/Random Fact: I am left-handed and I love to travel!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T. because I have always been passionate about mental health and making sure no one feels alone in their mental health journey. It's important to me to acknowledge and advocate for everyone who struggles, because we all do at some point in our life and no one is ever alone! Joining S.W.E.E.T. will be a great tool to use when I have speech clients who need emotional and mental support during such a hard time!

Hometown: Bedminster, NJ
Major: Dual Degree in History and Education
Minor: European Studies
Fun/Random Fact: I have two dogs and a cat
Why I Joined SWEET: Knowing how much of a transition going to college is, there are always people who need help. I have always tried to assist people navigate through difficult times in their lives. Helping them whenever they are in need of anything. SWEET gives me an amazing opportunity to continue to help my peers at SHU and guide them through mental health challenges that can arise during the stressful times of college.

Hometown: Framingham, MA
Major: Health Science (Concentration in Dietetics & Nutrition on a Pre-PA Track)
Minor: Chemistry
Fun/Random Fact: I am bilingual, I speak Portuguese and English!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T because my freshman year I met a S.W.E.E.T and she was extremely helpful and kind to me during my transition to college. I wanted to be that person for someone else and help my peers with whatever they may need. As a new member in S.W.E.E.T I have made some great friendships and have an amazing community to be able to count on!

Hometown: Perth Amboy, NJ
Major: Health Science (concentration of Public Health)
Minors: Nutrition and Psychology
Fun/Random Fact: I’ve been to Hawaii!!
Why I Joined SWEET: I have always wanted to help others and create an environment/culture where people can feel supported, valued, and heard. College can be a challenging transition, but it is also an important and incredible time for growth. It can definitely be overwhelming and stressful but through S.W.E.E.T, I can provide a positive influence for peers, helping them in prioritizing their mental and physical well being. I believe that the small acts of kindness and understanding can make the biggest difference. My passion for public health and mental wellness drives me to advocate for healthier habits and stronger connections within our SHU community. Let’s grow, thrive, and face challenges together because no one should ever feel alone in their journey.

Hometown: Jackson, NJ
Major: Psychology (Pre-Med)
Minors: Neuroscience, Criminal Justice, Honors
Fun/Random Fact: I'm a vegetarian!
Why I Joined SWEET: I joined S.W.E.E.T. because I am passionate about mental health awareness and advocacy. I believe peer education is one of the most powerful ways to reduce stigma and create a campus culture that supports mental wellness. I want to help other college students learn to build healthy habits and practice self-care so they can thrive during one of the most transitional and formative periods of our lives. I love Sacred Heart, and I am so excited to be part of a student organization that supports members of the SHU community!

Hometown: Long Island, NY
Major: Psychology
Minor: Social Work & Catholic Studies
Fun/Random Fact: I was born during the Super Bowl!
Why I Joined SWEET: Sacred Heart University is so welcoming and I am endlessly grateful that I get the opportunity to attend this school and to be a part of SWEET. Being part of SWEET has been an integral part of my college experience thus far. My biggest passion is to help others. I have always loved helping others in any way I can and to promote mental health. We all have mental health and it should be a priority in each of our lives. Everyone deserves to know how important and valued they are; they are not alone in their mental health struggles. Any way I can be a resource to those who are struggling, I am willing to commit to it. Being happy and healthy is so important and to find the beautiful part of each and every day.

Hometown: Bloomsbury, NJ
Major: Biology, Dual Degree Physician Associate Program
Minors: Chemistry & Psychology
Fun/Random Fact: I've gone camping in all the states on the east coast!
Why I Joined SWEET: Being a student, I understand how challenging and damaging college can be to our mental health. I joined S.W.E.E.T. to relate to and help other students by providing support, understanding and a safe space to feel heard, while also raising awareness about the importance of mental health. Not only will I make a difference by supporting others, but I will also develop important compassion and communication skills that will better me as a future health care professional.