Feature Stories 2025: High-achieving SouthCoast students enroll at UMass Dartmouth: Why top local graduates chose UMassD

UMass Dartmouth's class of 2029 is full of high-achieving students. Many first-years are SouthCoast locals who graduated at the top of their classes. From graphic design to biomedical engineering, these students are ready to continue their academic careers at UMassD. Here's what a few of the newest Corsairs are most looking forward to.

Hayley Mimoso, medical laboratory science

Hayley Mimoso graduated as valedictorian of the Fairhaven High School class of 2025 and is pursuing a degree in medical laboratory science (MLS).

"I chose to attend UMass Dartmouth because I wanted to commute and continue to spend time with my family. In addition, I really wanted to be a part of UMassD's MLS program. I chose a major that guaranteed me a job and would get me involved in healthcare."

"I'm most looking forward to the MLS courses. The professors that I've met at Open House and Admitted Students Day are so passionate about what they teach. I'm also excited for all the activities and events like Weeks of Welcome, Blue and Gold Weekend, and Moonlight Breakfast."

Whitney Berger, graphic design

Whitney Berger graduated from Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School and is joining the UMassD community as a graphic design student.

"I decided to attend UMassD because there are plenty of opportunities to become educated in subjects beyond just art. Additionally, there are a lot of people to meet with passions different from my own," she said.

"I'm also interested in theatre. Having seen well-done productions by both the UMass Dartmouth Theatre Company and 20 Cent Fiction, I feel secure in my plan to continue pursuing this hobby here."

Amelia Breese, biomedical engineering

Amelia Breese, Fairhaven High School's Class of 2025 Class President, attends UMass Dartmouth as a biomedical engineering major. "I chose to study biomedical engineering because I have Celiac disease, and I want to understand more about my own condition as well as help others," she said.

"I was drawn to UMassD's bioengineering program because the department is like a family. When you walk into their lounge, it feels like home. Not only is there the opportunity to graduate with my master's in 5 years, but the department is really strong. I want my professors to know my name, and I'm confident that's what I'm getting at UMassD."

Despite being local, Breese moved into the residence halls. "I decided to live on campus to establish myself, make friends, and experience campus culture," she said.

Jacob Rocha, electrical engineering

Jacob Rocha began the electrical engineering program after graduating from Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School.

"I chose UMass Dartmouth because it has a strong engineering program that offers a foundation for my career goals. UMassD provides a quality education that is financially realistic and won't leave me with massive student loans, which will allow me to focus on my studies without the heavy burden of debt," he said.

"I'm looking forward to meeting new people and building connections with classmates and professors. I'm excited to challenge myself academically, take part in hands-on projects, and prepare for a career in engineering."

Anna Burke, art education

Anna Burke attended Lakeville High School and now studies at UMassD as an art education major.

Burke chose to attend UMass Dartmouth because she had heard about the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA). "My high school art teacher went to UMassD and told me about how incredible the art education major was for her. Everything just fell into place perfectly and I thought this would be the best college for me."

"I am most looking forward to meeting new people, making friends, and forming lifelong connections!"

Hannah Abrams, English

Westport High alumna Hannah Abrams joins UMassD as part of the English and communication program.

"I chose to attend UMass Dartmouth because of the affordability. With the merit scholarship I earned, along with lower overall cost associated with being an in-state commuter, I can graduate debt-free," she said.

"I am looking forward to furthering my studies and enhancing my skills!"

Kylie Monteforte, medical laboratory science

Kylie Monteforte studies medical laboratory science after graduating from Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School.

"The MLS program that UMassD offers was the deciding factor for me. The 100% job placement rate was very important when choosing where to go," she said.

"I'm most looking forward to the classes in my major and gaining new experiences within that field of study. I am also excited to explore a new level of independence, meet lots of new people, and see what college is like!"

Monteforte chose to live on-campus. "I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and do something new. I've never lived anywhere away from home, and I wanted to have that ‘college experience.'" 

I want my professors to know my name, and I’m confident that’s what I’m getting at UMassD.