Class of 2025 Graduates Inspire Seniors at Return to the Mount

On January 6, members of the Class of 2025 returned to the Mount to share their first-semester college experiences with seniors during a panel discussion held in the Sister Lisa Gambacorto Theater as part of the annual Return to the Mount celebration. The event offered seniors encouragement, perspective, and valuable guidance as they prepare for their own transitions to college.

The morning began with a light breakfast, providing an opportunity for alumnae to reconnect with classmates, faculty and staff before the panel discussion. Jacqueline Muratore ‘01, M.A., Ed.M., M.S., Assistant Directress, and Eileen Honicky, College Counselor, served as panel moderators. Kathleen Burke ‘04, Director of the Kennedy Library Media Center and Academic Program Associate, assisted in facilitating the panel discussion. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Susan Di Iorio, Alumnae Program Coordinator, who emphasized the importance of alumnae mentorship, connection, and community.

Participating alumnae included Akosua Ansong (Stevens Institute of Technology, Software Engineering), Audrey Bassolino (The Catholic University of America, Nursing), Bianca Barreto (Texas Christian University, Psychology – Pre-Med), Katherine Byrne (University of Notre Dame, Mechanical Engineering), Shelby Carmant (Seton Hall University, Diplomacy and International Relations, Pre-Law), Brigid Cogan (Auburn University, English – Creative Writing), Jessica Curran (Boston College, Undecided, Pre-Law), Rosie Harrast (Rutgers University–New Brunswick, Exercise Science), Zoe Hunter (University of Delaware, Undeclared), Lila Keller (College of the Holy Cross, Undeclared), Mary Cate King (Boston College, History and Economics), Devon Kochanski (Fordham University, Undecided), Kayla Marion (University of St Andrews, Molecular Biology), Sarah Mooney (Providence College, Nursing), Ryan Oden (Middle Tennessee State University, Public Health), Laura Pires (University of San Diego, Communications), Olivia Postol (Miami University of Ohio, Psychology and Pre-Med), Grace Prayias (University of Pittsburgh, Biology Major, Music Minor, Pre-Med), Grace Puglisi (Georgetown University, Business), Sedona Rovito (University of Pittsburgh), Gianna Sangillo (Bucknell University, Accounting), Ella Vivona (Kent State University, Architecture with a Minor in Business), Kathryn Williamson (University of Delaware, Kinesiology), and Anna Ziccardi (Babson College, Legal Studies and Business Analytics).

When discussing academics, alumnae shared favorite college courses such as International Relations, Social Psychology, Introductory Public Health, Bio Management, Workplace Communications, and Anatomy and Physiology. They also noted the wide range of class sizes they experience, ranging from 10 students to more than 300.

Many alumnae credited the Mount with preparing them for college through strong writing skills, effective time management, and academic discipline. Shelby Carmant shared that the Mount’s emphasis on building strong relationships with professors was imperative to her success and gave her confidence engaging with faculty in college. Alumnae also expressed deep appreciation for the individualized attention they received from Mount teachers, noting how impactful that support continues to be.

Beyond academics, the panel explored residence life, extracurricular involvement, and campus social experiences. Alumnae emphasized the importance of open communication with roommates, setting boundaries, establishing ground rules for shared living spaces, and getting to know one another before move-in day. Seniors were encouraged to join clubs, create routines, manage schedules, prioritize self-care, and make time for physical wellness as they transition to college life.

Throughout the discussion, alumnae offered practical and encouraging advice for seniors, sharing strategies that helped them thrive in college. Ryan Oden reminded students, “There is a school for you. Be confident in yourself.” Lila Keller emphasized the value of “attending admitted students’ day whenever possible,” while Bianca Barreto suggested “taking advantage of virtual tours if travel to campus is not feasible.” Katherine Byrne encouraged students to “reach out to everyone, join clubs, and get to know people in your dorm.” Mary Cate King advised students to “appreciate your time at the Mount while looking ahead to the future,” and Zoe Hunter echoed, “appreciate where you are.” Brigid Cogan added a reminder to “always be happy for your Mount sisters.” Together, their guidance combined practical tips with warmth and encouragement, leaving seniors feeling confident, supported, and inspired for the next chapter of their journeys.

Faith life was also discussed as an important part of the college experience. Alumnae shared that continuing one’s faith in college is a personal and intentional journey. Audrey Basolino shared that she attends Saturday evening Mass, while others spoke about participating in Bible studies, highlighting the comfort and sense of community faith can provide.

Following the panel discussion, alumnae and seniors gathered for a mini college fair, where conversations continued in a more informal setting. Seniors had the opportunity to ask additional questions, gain deeper insight into academic programs and campus life, and leave the event feeling informed, supported, and confident as they look ahead to their own college experiences.