Wanting to go outside of her comfort zone led to a psychology major with a concentration in applied clinical science and an independent studies minor in child and adolescent studies. She’s also focused on leadership roles that allow her advocate for student wellness, equity and access.

Her introduction to the Student Government Association (SGA) came before she even committed to Quinnipiac.

“At the time, SGA felt like a bold and unexpected choice for me, something that would genuinely challenge me to grow,” Sternhardt explained. “After attending an information session and connecting with current members, I was immediately inspired by their passion, drive and dedication to making a difference for others.”

That inspiration turned into action. Beginning her career as a senator and recently ending her year as vice president, Sternhardt has launched and supported a couple of different initiatives.

She brought virtual booking options for counseling services to students and healthier food to the Bobcat Den, and together with her first-year cabinet, brought free ice skate rentals to open skate at Quinnipiac's M&T Bank Arena.

One of her collaborative initiatives is the upcoming installation of tablets outside study rooms, streamlining student access to on campus resources. She worked alongside Zachary O’Connell, another SGA member, on the project and was finally able to secure the funds through SGA’s Capital Expenditures process.

But it’s her work on menstrual equity that has become a defining part of her student leadership.

“This initiative isn’t just a matter of convenience, it’s a matter of equity. Menstrual products are a basic need, and when they’re not readily available, it disproportionately affects those who menstruate," she said. "Through this project, I wanted to support those students in a tangible way, to make sure they feel seen, valued and represented.”

Now that she is retired from being SGA’s vice president, though she will return as senior class president in the fall, she sets her signs on additional health-focused projects, including introducing a wellness vending machine stocked with Plan B and over-the-counter essentials and expanding access to Headspace for all students, faculty and staff.

She also can’t wait to plan unforgettable events for the Class of 2026’s senior year.

Outside of SGA, Sternhardt is just as busy. She’s spent nearly two years as president of Quinnipiac’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, served as peer catalyst, Orientation Leader and campus life student, as well as been a member of Psi Chi, the Psychology Honor Society.

She also leads fitness classes in the RecWell, and is a research assistant at Yale’s Affect Regulation and Cognition Lab. She also serves on the College of Arts and Sciences’ Advisory Council.

Looking ahead, Sternhardt plans to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology with a focus on providing mental health support to children in marginalized communities.

For new and incoming students, she says the most important thing is getting involved.

“Whether it be with a sport, fraternity and sorority life or a student organization, get involved," she said. "Getting out of your comfort zone early opens up a world of opportunities both personally and professionally. Becoming a student leader teaches you invaluable skills and can lead you to make life long friends.”