Thursday, Mar 10, 2016
Alyssa Belardo '17 is a double major in secondary education and English
Alyssa Belardo '17, a double major in secondary education and English with a concentration in writing and a minor in film and media studies, is originally from Newtown, Pa. Alyssa has become notably involved at Rider, including her current position as president of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honors Society, as well as other organizations on campus.
What made you decide to attend Rider?
Rider had an education program that I could not turn down. I also liked the idea of a more intimate campus. The classes I take are small, which enables me to be more comfortable with my professors and classmates because, typically, I see the same students and professors for many of my classes.
Why did you choose your major?
Writing has always been a passion of mine and when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue at college, I was certain it should focus around writing. I also love working with kids, so I decided that education would be the best of both worlds. I’ve always adored film, so adding that as my minor is simply allowing me the chance to look more closely at another one of my passions.
What books are you reading right now?
Currently, I am reading Perfect by Ellen Hopkins along with books for classes such as High Fidelity and Rosemary's Baby.
Name three of your all-time favorite movies and explain why.
The Lion King is my all time favorite movie just because the animation is wonderful and the storyline still works up my emotions. We Need to Talk About Kevin is another one which is beautifully filmed and is a fantastic adaptation from the original novel. A Man Escaped is a French film, but it kept my interest for the entire film even though I could not understand the language without subtitles. It was a spectacular black and white film production.
What does being President of Sigma Tau Delta involve?
I have meetings with my executive board and the club adviser, Dr. Laurel Harris. We go over requirements for Sigma Tau Delta members, ways to spend our budget efficiently, and plan fun events for the English major community. For example, we planned a Halloween Party in the fall where students came dressed up as their favorite character from literature, the party was also a book drive, and this spring we are having a pizza party for faculty and students where we will have some English Professors speak about what can be done with an English degree.
How has this position enhanced your experience at Rider?
Though we don’t hold many events, the events we do host attract English majors and it’s a thrill for me to see other people as passionate as I am about the subject. The position of president hasn’t impeded me at all; rather, it’s been a joy.
How else are you involved on campus?
I am a resident adviser in Poyda Hall, a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon sorority, Vice President of Community Service and Philanthropy of RUGC, a member of the Leadership Development Program, and a member of the following honor societies: Kappa Delta Pi, Rho Alpha Sigma, Alpha Lambda Delta, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Order of Omega.
What do you hope to do with your degree?
I would like to find a career in education in the state of Pennsylvania as a teacher. I want to work in Pennsylvania because that's where I live. There is a law that does not allow me to teach in New Jersey because I do not live here. However, I do love where I am from so regardless of the law I would still want to teach there and be close to my family.
What do you think will be the most difficult aspect of being a teacher?
I think the most difficult aspect of being a teacher will be patience. I typically expect others to care as much as I do about certain things and the reality is that some students just won't. I must be patient with these students and make the time to engage them in learning and teach them to love learning.
What do you say to students who say they don't have time for extracurricular activities?
There is always time for extracurricular activities! It's all about time management. Never restrict yourself in participating in something that appeals to you. If you love if, make time for it.
How do you hope to stay connected with Rider after graduating?
I plan on visiting back after graduation to my sorority and donating to charity events that I attend now as a student.