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.

  • Nicolette San Clemente
    CTSS Intern/International Business Major, 2018

    Through her internship with CTSS, Nicolette and 4 others students developed and launched an award-winning non-profit Countering Violent Extremism program.

  • Mickyas Yihdego
    Electrical Engineering

    Mickyas Yihdego, an electrical engineering major originally from Ethiopia, helps the Lowell Housing Authority digitize its blueprints archive through his work-study job at O’Leary Library.

  • Charlie Levesque
    Chemistry

    In a sport where team chemistry is vital, UML hockey player Charlie Levesque brings the perspective of an actual chemistry major – one with the goal of one day becoming a chiropractor.

  • Rachel Sullivan
    Music Education

    Music studies major Rachel Sullivan discovered more than a way to earn money through her campus job with Transportation Services. She also found a genuine camaraderie that has enriched her college experience.

  • Mike Taskoski
    Business Administration

    As a technical program manager with the U.S. Navy, Mike Taskoski had his pick of MBA programs. He chose UMass Lowell based on the reputation of its online program.

  • Chandni Shahdev
    Public Health – Epidemiology

    Her master’s degree in public health and research experiences helped Chandni Shahdev get a job with the CDC Foundation, working with employers to prevent and contain outbreaks of COVID-19.

  • Frances Skinner
    Chemistry, Political Science

    Frances Skinner ’19 gained lab skills and confidence while working in Chemistry Asst. Prof. Manos Gkikas’ lab

  • Sofia Savoca
    Civil Engineering

    Sofia Savoca chose UMass Lowell for the opportunity to be in the Honors College and to study civil engineering. She’s found a dozen new opportunities since arriving on campus.