- Home
- Spotlights
- Student Portal
- Admissions
Laura Elaine McHugh
Major: BA, Psychology
Minor: English
Hometown: Quincy, MA
"I came to college expecting to take a lot of classes, read a lot of books, maybe join a club or two. I wasn't expecting to change so much as a person."
What have you learned at UMass Dartmouth that's made a difference for you?
I came to college expecting to take a lot of classes, read a lot of books, maybe join a club or two. I wasn't expecting to change so much as a person. In college, I have learned so much about myself.
What organizations did you belong to at UMass Dartmouth?
Being involved in the Theatre Company for all four years of my education is something I wouldn't trade for anything. I've grown so much as a performer by appearing in several Theatre Company shows and met so many people who have become some of my nearest and dearest friends. Despite the struggles we sometimes went through as a club, we're truly a family. I would not be the same person I am now if I hadn't met and done shows with this group of kooky, lovable people.
What are your plans for the future?
I'm a psychology major, and studying this field has taught me how to better understand people, and therefore has given me valuable experience in any field I choose to go into. My English (drama, film, and media concentration) minor has allowed me to follow my interests of writing, reading, and drama--all interests that I intend to keep in my life forever. After graduation, I will be working for the university one last time as an orientation leader, and then doing an internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
What would you like to tell future students?
Join a club! There's absolutely no better way to get involved and meet like-minded people. Being involved in extracurriculars is what has made my time in college truly stand out. When the academics get stressful, you always have something else you love to turn to . . . and that's just one benefit of joining a club. UMass Dartmouth has so many involvement and leadership opportunities, it would be a shame not to reach out and take advantage of them. College is about so much more than just academics!
Who would you like to thank?
I'd like to thank my parents for always encouraging me and supporting me in my education and interests, my sisters Kate and Elaine, my roommates, Juli Parker for being a mentor throughout my college years, Anton Belov for making my voice grow, the members of the Theatre Company, and everyone else (Caitlyn, Christina, Megan, Lauren, the orientation staff, the VDAY participants, and all the friends I've made along the way) who has touched me in some way throughout my college life. It's been a great ride!
