Once a Saint, always a Saint! Meet Nicole Heck, an alumna from Siena who has some advice for current and incoming students, as well as information on what she is up to since graduating from Siena…like writing a book set on Siena’s campus?
Her Campus: What year did you graduate from Siena?
Nicole Heck: I graduated from Siena in 2014.
HC: What was your major when you were here?
NH: I was a Marketing major with a minor in Information Systems.
HC: What have you been up to since graduation?
NH: After graduation, I moved down to North Carolina where I was a nanny and a manager at a gym. I then moved back to the area a year later and took a position here at Siena. I am currently the Assistant Director of Alumni Relations.
HC: What inspired your first book, A Saint For Life?
NH: I’ve always wanted to be a writer. While in my senior year, I got the idea for this book and thought it would be neat to have it take place at Siena and revolving around Siena students. I ran with the idea and contemplated having it take place at a fictitious college, but ultimately decided to keep it at Siena since so many would be able to relate.
HC: Are you working on any new projects, and if so, what?
NH: I am in the process of writing my second novel. This one takes place locally as well – on the Great Sacandaga Lake. Stay tuned!
HC: What were you involved in while at Siena?
NH: While I was a student, I was involved in a number of clubs including one I helped start up. A few friends and I decided we wanted to take action on promoting bullying awareness and started up a club where we traveled to local area schools to educate students on anti-bullying. I was also an intern in the athletics department during my senior year.
HC: What do you love most about Siena?
NH: My favorite part about Siena would have to be the community. From the professors to the staff, the students and alumni – everyone welcomes you with open arms. I think all would agree that’s the one part that makes Siena unique and so awesome. We are a community like no other and are always willing to go out of our way to help out another Siena person.
HC: Do you any advice for incoming or current students to help them succeed here?
NH: To get involved. High school to college isn’t an easy transition for most, but when you get involved in different clubs or activities, it’s an easy way to meet people you’ll soon call your friends for life.
HC: Any hobbies or interesting talents?
NH: Other than writing, I would say my favorite hobby would be running. I am passionate about fitness and health, and over the last few years have found a love for long-distance running.
HC: On a scale of 1 to 10, how likely are you to recommend Siena to someone looking at colleges and why?
NH: For someone looking at colleges, I would rate Siena a 9. I’d say 10 because in my mind it is, but some may prefer a bigger school. Personally, I love that Siena is a smaller college because of the personal attention and love every student will receive. Siena really “opens the door” for students for so many opportunities for them to succeed in the future.