Dream big and work hard. That's the River Hawk way. UMass Lowell students pursue their passion for learning in the classroom and beyond. They are each unique but are united in their drive to make a difference. Here are some of their stories.

  • Thavaleak Prum
    Applied Biomedical Sciences

    Thavaleak Prum came to UML to pursue her dream of transforming people’s lives through research.

  • Feriel Boudif
    Biological Sciences

    By her sophomore year, Feriel Boudif had secured two paid research assistant positions on campus.

  • Martha Mayo
    Education

    Retired special collections librarian Martha Mayo ’92 collects art – and supports art at UMass Lowell (UML).

  • Gerry Siracusa
    Exercise Science, MBA

    Gerry Siracusa is combining his degree in exercise science with an MBA, which will help him open his own physical therapy practice someday.

  • Christopher Ingemi
    Civil & Environmental Engineering

    A former carpenter sidelined by the recession, Christopher Ingemi went back to school at Middlesex Community College and then transferred to UML. Now, thanks to his job in a lab, he’s completed his master’s in civil engineering and found a great job as a bridge designer.

  • Amanda Baptiste
    Exercise Physiology and Education

    Through leadership opportunities as a student-athlete, exercise physiology graduate Amanda Baptiste found her voice — and discovered her calling to become a high school biology teacher.

  • Matthew Olson
    Education

    Matthew Olson, dean of humanities and social science at Middlesex Community College, says there is a direct connection between the doctorate he earned in Leadership in Schooling and his current job.

  • Michele Fox
    Master of Physical Therapy, Doctor of Physical Therapy

    Assoc. Teaching Prof. Michele Fox ’94, ’06 of the Department of Physical Therapy and Kinesiology, a double River Hawk, swims competitively and raises money for cancer research.