Karen Mason '13 - Admission

Karen is studying both biology and psychology and hopes to continue her education post-NEC with the overall goal of becoming an oncologist.  As a biology and psychology double-major, the experiential learning model has, without a doubt, enhanced her academic experience at NEC thus far.  According to Karen, the natural environment surrounding the campus provides an ideal outdoor laboratory and, for that reason, the environment is a central component of the academic experience.   The learning that takes place in the field is value-added, says Karen.   In addition to her academic pursuits, Karen serves as the treasurer for three clubs:  Aspiring Minds, Environmental Action Committee (EAC), and Health Science Club.  She is also a Student Ambassador in the undergraduate Office of Admission and would like to become a resident advisor (RA) in the near future.

Karen visited a number of colleges and universities prior to visiting NEC; however, unlike her previous campus visit experiences, Karen immediately felt at home and welcome at NEC.  “Everyone was just so friendly.  Coming from a big city, it was kind of funny but definitely nice to see every person happy and smiling,” she says.  Karen’s advice to prospective students – “You have to see the campus for yourself.  You’ll fall in love!”  She adds, “NEC provides you with the necessary tools to accomplish your dreams and be successful.”

The eldest of five children, Karen and her immediate family moved to New York, New York from Guyana, a small country between Brazil and Venezuela, when she was ten years old.  Karen says, “My parents have always pushed me to go after what I want and they have always supported me.”  She knows that it will take time to accomplish her goals and she is willing to go the distance.  As a role model for her younger siblings, she is sure of herself and confident that anything is possible with a can-do attitude …and a smile!