BY MOLLY STONE
(Photo Credit: Molly Stone)
Crystal Chojnowski is anxiously awaiting graduation after being selected as the 2024 student commencement speaker.
Every year Stonehill College asks for one graduating student to represent their class as student speaker at the commencement ceremony. Seniors must audition their speeches in front of a panel of judges.
“When I left my audition, I felt really good about it. I had told myself even if I didn’t get it, I was content with how my audition went and gave it my all,” Chojnowksi, a communication major, said.
After auditioning alongside 11 other seniors on Thursday April 18, Chojnowski was told she would hear a decision soon. She received an exciting phone call the next morning.
“I was shocked to have gotten the call that I had been selected to speak at commencement. I genuinely didn’t think I was going to win against the other seniors who tried out but could not be more thankful for it,” Chojnowski said.
Chojnowski is editing and finalizing her speech with the help of communication Professor Monique Meyers.
“Professor Meyers has been a huge help in the success of my speech. She encouraged me to speak about memorable moments and niche Stonehill experiences,” Chojnowksi said. “I really want my speech to be impactful and relatable to every senior.”
Chojnowksi feels like her time at Stonehill was essential to her growth. She believes Stonehill has shaped her into a person she is extremely proud of.
She has also been an active member of the campus community by taking part in the First Year Experience Program as a student teacher and being named on the Dean’s List.
Despite her academic integrity and extracurricular commitments, Chojnowski wants everyone to know that she is just a normal 22-year-old college student.
“I’ve worked extremely hard in my classes and maintained a solid GPA but that’s not to say I haven’t played hard too. I’m such an extroverted person and my friends are so important to me. Making time for the social aspect of college was always something I made sure I was able to do,” she said.
Without giving too much away, Chojnowski said students can expect reflection, humor, and excitement for the future included in her speech.
“I am hoping that people leave my speech reflecting on the person they have grown into within their time at Stonehill and feel thankful for the moments and memories they have shared here. I also hope people laugh at my jokes,” Chojnowski said.
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