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Why Monica chose Rider

"I chose Rider for its small classes and athletics program. I went to a large high school so I really loved Rider’s personal atmosphere,” said Monica, who received a full scholarship to play for Rider’s NCAA Division I women’s basketball team. “Rider is a warm and welcoming community that’s close Philadelphia and New York City. As an artist, a small campus close to two major cities made Rider the right place for me."

Rider's impact on Monica's career

"Rider's education program was really great. The hands-on classroom experience starts early on so you have the chance to try out your teaching skills and interact with students,” Monica said. “By my senior year, I felt extremely prepared to create lesson plans and assume a leadership role in my own classroom."

Her artistic talents blossomed under the guidance of Professor Deborah Rosenthal, a noted abstract painter. “I knew she saw something in me.” Prof. Rosenthal allowed her to remain in the art studio late into the night, painting and shaping images.  

Continued success

"When I enrolled at Rider, I was a student-athlete interested in teaching and pursuing my art career. My college experience opened my eyes to see that different avenues could be part of my career path. I was very involved on campus with the women’s basketball team, my sorority and an art magazine. I enjoyed being so connected to my college experience."

Since graduating from Rider, Monica’s paintings have been exhibited in various showings. She also has illustrated a published children’s book and is working on a few books of her own.