"Quinnipiac has been my home for four years in every sense of the word," said the 4+1 communications major, who grew up in Portugal, South Africa and Tanzania. "I have grown in all aspects of life. Quinnipiac has coached and prepared me to become a well-balanced young lady who knows she can move mountains in the future. The school believed in me and that made me strong academically, emotionally, and physically."

Alvares, who loves the university so much that she is now an admissions ambassador, encourages prospective students to visit the campuses to truly experience what makes Quinnipiac special.

"My tour guide was exceptional and I certainly give him credit for most of my decisions," she said. "He gave a thorough tour, shared his personal experiences, and made his pitch clear that Quinnipiac is a school with exceptional standards and individualizes each of its students."

She said her visit helped her to appreciate the university's beautiful campuses and facilities.

"Quinnipiac is a school that has been recognized as one of the top colleges in the country," she said. "And it is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the state."

Alvares completed her bachelor's in communications/media studies in January and will complete her master's in public relations in May.

"I am so grateful to Quinnipiac for the opportunity of a lifetime," she said. "My dream is to come back as a proud alumna to make a difference and let her experience impact the education of future students from a personal perspective."

The deposit deadline is May 1 for admitted students; prospective students are encouraged to attend the May open house.