Danielle Ardizzone, ’09 Psychology

“Bay Path College has provided me with a top-rate education, while presenting opportunities that encouraged my interests. From a very early age, I have always been captivated by Native American culture, and Bay Path provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me to live among the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate in South Dakota for an entire semester.

During my fall internship, I was immersed in their language, history, and culture. I had the opportunity to experience Native dance, music, and traditions at powwows, and even witness some ceremonies, such as the sweat lodge ceremony. Most importantly, I gained first-hand experience working one-on-one with children and teens at their Veterans Memorial Youth Center. There, I realized the issues many of these children and their families face on a day-to-day basis.

I crave meaningful experiences, and Bay Path has not only delivered remarkable opportunities, but an education that combines coursework with hands-on learning. Great things can be achieved with the right amount of passion and support, and my dreams would not have become a reality if it wasn’t for the support of mentors, my circle of friends, and my family.”