Meet Jennifer Riley (CGS’09)

Name: Jennifer Riley
From: Mamaroneck, New York
School: College of General Studies
Major: Undecided

Why did you choose BU?
Although BU is not where I originally intended to go, I have come to realize that it is where I need to be. Who needs the Ivies when you’ve got BU? After growing up in Manhattan, I felt a city school was a must. But BU’s close-knit community made it feel like home for me. Also, Boston is far enough away from home that I feel independent; at the same time it is just a three-hour train ride home.

What are you most looking forward to about Boston?
I am really excited about receiving a first-class education within a multicultural hub. Boston is such a diverse city; I’m sure I will never get bored. Although it will take some time to master the ins and outs of the T, and I may never understand  “inbound” and  “outbound” trains, I plan to use Boston’s resources to the fullest. I cannot wait to visit my friends at the New England Conservatory and watch a performance of the Boston Symphony Orchestra with them.

What will you miss most about home?
I will miss New York a great deal. But most of all, I will miss the Hoff-Barthelson Music School in Scarsdale, N.Y., where I spent every day after school receiving my second education in music. My love and passion for music have been brought alive by this institution, and being disconnected from it and the members of its community will be very hard for me.

What will you miss least about home?
I won’t miss the creaky floorboards in my house.

Describe your favorite high school memory.
Graduation day was one of the most meaningful days for me. As I walked up to receive my diploma, I realized that I had finished one part of my life and was ready to move on to the next. I was ready to move beyond seven years of plaid kilts and polo shirts and to develop in an environment that is not only coed but allows me to wear my own clothing to class.

What high school activities do you hope to continue with at BU?
Of course, music will be a part of my life at BU in some way. I plan to audition for the Concert Band and the All-Campus Orchestra.

What new activities do you want to try?
I think I’d like to try sports. I cannot wait to take a few FitRec classes, and maybe even play broomball!

What is one of your long-term goals during your time at BU?
At my high school, the Ursuline School, the motto was, “Ursuline women are women of intelligence, strength, and wisdom.” Although I’d like to believe that I achieved all of those goals while in high school, I understand that the thought is a little naive. So I would like to continue the Ursuline tradition at Boston University.

What are you doing this summer to get ready for your first year of college?
This summer I am working at Columbia University in the office of space planning. It is my first job, and I can say that is has been an experience I will never forget. Although I may think I am doing meaningless tasks, I know that my help is truly appreciated by my boss and the rest of the staff. Besides working, I have been going to the beach and relaxing a little before school starts.