Nick Dragonette's Alumni Testimonial

When I started applying to colleges I had an idea that I wanted to go a smaller college where I could get to know the professors on a personal level and not just become a number to them. When I visited Fredonia I instantly felt a connection and it seamlessly became my home away from home during my first semester. I think Fredonia can offer you the best of both worlds, those being a strong progressive education, and having time for yourself outside of class, meet amazing people, and create extraordinary memories.

The word outstanding is an understatement to describe the faculty and staff at Fredonia; all of them were always willing to go the extra mile, or take time out of their day to make sure that you were on track or point you in the right direction. Help was readily available if you were willing to knock on someone’s door or shoot them an email with a burning question late at night. My advisor at Fredonia was Dr. Lee who was the head of the Health Committee. Since I had my sights set on dental school, he was more helpful than I ever could’ve imagined; always pushing me to do better in class, aiding me in building a solid resume, and assisting me in starting and running a new club on campus.

At Fredonia you will meet your best friends and it will become home for you. I met one of mine and we became cofounders of the Health Profession Club on campus, it is for students interested in pursuing a career in the health field. Dr. Lee became our club advisor and put us in contact with the Chautauqua Blind Association so we could volunteer at their Dining in the Dark event. Together we were also able to bring in representatives from various medical, dental, veterinary, and optometry schools. And there were many things to do outside of the science department; for example, I participated in club lacrosse and intramurals with my friends every year. During my interview at the University of Buffalo Dental School, their focus was figuring out what kind of person I was outside of school. They were amazed at the vast opportunities I had beyond class to learn, grow and give back, and that I still had time for friendly basketball games against roommates. At Fredonia I always tried to have fun no matter what I was I doing, so now whenever I look back at my time spent there I know those will be some of my most memorable moments in life!

NICK DRAGONETTE
B.S., Biology, Fredonia, Class of 2014
University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Class of 2018