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In describing his college experience in one word, Greg chooses “progressive.” After pondering on the question for a moment, Greg says, “I really came into my own in college. I have developed as a better student and person each year.” Greg decided to attend UNH after a second trip here during the spring of his senior year of high school. He was impressed with the campus and found the people and overall feeling in Durham to be friendly and comfortable. With a passion for politics and prior experience in school government in his hometown of Leominster, Massachusetts, Greg decided to study Political Science as a major. Then, during his sophomore year, Greg was asked to be a Teaching Assistant for a logic class; he took a chance on it and found it to be rewarding. Encouraged by his Academic Advisor to take additional philosophy courses, Greg gave it a try and found he loved it as well. “I’ve always been interested in history and politics. Politics involves everyone and sheds light on how our interests interact. I love philosophy because it allows you to see how deep the rabbit hole goes in often unquestioned aspects of life, society, and law. It forces you to think outside the box and exercise self reflection and self evaluation. I value the openness in philosophical theory as well as trying to apply theory to real life.” One of the culminating academic experiences in Greg’s UNH career involved the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP). Taking advantage of a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), Greg embarked on a summer long research journey exploring “how Americans have (or have not) balanced the delicate scales of freedom and security during the War on Terror.” This was an exciting project for Greg and it sparked an interest in independent research. Participating in UROP also allowed Greg the opportunity to work closely with Philosophy Professor Nick Smith. Smith has been one of Greg’s favorite faculty members here; he has had quite an impact on his college career. Recalling the experience of Smith’s Philosophy of Law class, Greg said: “Nick Smith is engaging and enthusiastic. Taking his class made me want to pursue a career studying and teaching the philosophy of law.” What is most impressive about Greg’s academic accomplishments at UNH is that they didn’t come easy and they weren’t merely handed to him. Greg discovered in college that he has a learning disability, something he credits another UNH staff member for helping him to identify and wrestle with. Catherine Lupo, Greg’s Residence Hall Director and supervisor, encouraged Greg to investigate this possibility and supported him once he discovered he did, in fact, have a learning disability. “Cat has been a good friend of mine for three years now. She supported me and helped point me in the right direction.” Greg’s perseverance and success in the face of such a challenge is inspiring. In addition to wonderful academic experiences, Greg has filled his time at UNH with great co-curricular involvement as well. He has been involved with Intramurals and Student Senate and has served as an Orientation Leader, a Teaching Assistant, Assistant Property Manager in the Gables, and a Resident Assistant in Stoke and Mills Halls. “Taking on these leadership roles has given me a full circle perspective. I love the interaction with other students. As a Resident Assistant, I have learned that everyone operates differently and that it is always best to start with an Greg’s story has been unique, exciting, and enriching. UNH has provided him with invaluable academic and co-curricular experiences, caring and talented faculty and staff members, and an environment in which he could thrive and enjoy himself. The key to Greg’s success, though, has been his willingness to take risks, his untiring perseverance, and his commitment to helping others along the way. |
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“Students are the focus of everything we do.” |
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Greg Bergeron will graduate from UNH in May, 2004 with a degree in Political Science and Philosophy and will be attending an M.A. program in Philosophy in the fall. His long term plan is to earn a Ph.D. in Philosophy, a Law degree, and to become a professor of Philosophy some day. His story at UNH has been one filled with challenge and reward, academic accomplishment, and co-cur- ricular achievement.
open mind, assuming that each individual will see things differently than others. I’ve learned to really appreciate diversity and the value of developing community.” 