Alumni Spotlight

Thomas Hernon '09

Stonehill College provided me with the opportunity to excel as a student and compete in intercollegiate athletics at a high level. The community of teachers, coaches, and students at Stonehill has allowed me to pursue my dream of a profession in the medical field, while playing for the Men's Soccer team.

Working Shoulder-to-Shoulder with Faculty

From the first week of school, the Biology Department at Stonehill has helped me develop and hone the skills necessary for a successful career. I have built strong relationships with many of my professors, because of the small, interactive classroom settings. On top of all this, I could also call on the Pre-Health Professions Advisor, Dean Craig Almeida, who helped me every step of the way on the path to dental school.

In the Lab

I developed such a close relationship with some professors that during Summer 2008, I took part in the Stonehill Undergraduate Research Experience (S.U.R.E.) Program researching Armillaria gallica, a type of mushroom, with Professors Robert and Diane Peabody and Maura Tyrrell.

Working as a student with professors who each possess over 30 years of research experience, I only expected to play a small role in the project. And I couldn't have been more wrong. The first day I walked in to the lab, I was already a colleague and an important member of the research team. This great experience should culminate with me as a coauthor of my first published scientific paper.

Fulfillment on the Soccer Field and Beyond

Apart from academics, I was able to pursue my love of the game of soccer playing for the Skyhawks. Playing soccer has been more than just a game for me; it has allowed me to become strongly involved in the Stonehill community and my community at home. At Stonehill, I volunteered for the Special Olympics and I will continue working this event for many years to come.

I am confident that I will be able to meet the challenges of dental school because of my experience at Stonehill College.

Thomas is from Mansfield, MA and will attend Boston University's School of Dental Medicine.