As an incoming freshman, embracing the chaos of Welcome Week and overall college life can be challenging, but as Senior Ambassador Leader Gabe Randazzo reflects on his college journey, he explains the elements that led him to love TCNJ.
One of three Senior Leaders of Ambassadors, Randazzo represents the general TCNJ student body as well as the spirited Ambassador program. The senior art education major from Hillsborough, N.J. largely credits the Ambassador experience for his love of TCNJ. “The Ambassador program has done wonders for me,” he says. “It’s supplied me with confidence, a sense of finding my place and leadership. Not to mention close friendships with about 150 of some of the best people to currently go to and circulate through TCNJ.”
Randazzo demonstrates leadership among his peers as his position requires him to serve as a liaison between the 100+ other student Ambassadors and the upper-level admissions counselors and staff. The Senior Leader must make sure tours, open houses and other important events run smoothly. Randazzo hopes to, “portray the welcoming, fun, and excitable environment that TCNJ has to offer. With slightly more emphasis on the fun, since this is college, after all.”
For those freshmen who are nervous about their first year at TCNJ, he says, “Everyone at TCNJ is passionate about what they do, whether they’re studying to become a doctor, a computer engineer, a writer, or a teacher, we all share enthusiasm and fascination with what we do. It makes you feel like you’re becoming worldlier, more knowledgeable and a better person just by being here. It’s hard to explain it, but there’s just a certain type of person that comes to TCNJ, which makes it easy for everyone to get along and enjoy the community aspect of campus.”
Randazzo credits his eighth grade teacher for teaching him to appreciate the balance of responsibility and freedom in college. His devotion to embracing opportunity and growth while at college is evident in his words about TCNJ.
“Looking back now, it’s hard to imagine myself anywhere besides TCNJ,” he says. “This place has served as my home for the past three years and I’ve loved every bit of it. And the best part is, is that I’d say the majority of the students who go here, feel the same way.”
With his work ethic, passion for TCNJ and easy-going personality, there is no doubt that Randazzo will continue to emulate the true qualities of a TCNJ student, instilling inspiration in new Ambassadors and prospective students alike.