Senior Spotlight '26: Andrew Boga
Majors: Business Administration; Philosophy
Hometown: Gloucester, Massachusetts
Student groups, clubs, organizations, jobs, internships, honors, or athletic affiliations: Philosophy Club President, The Brotherhood, Resident Assistant
What made you choose Salem State, and what is one thing a prospective student should know about our campus community?
I chose Salem State because, as a college dropout returning to school, I needed a place that would give me the chance to succeed. Salem State provided exactly that because the effort I put in was reflected in what I got back with each decision I made. Our campus community works in that same way. The more you put in, the more you get back.
Once you got to campus, what made you say, "This is the place for me?"
The community and connectivity of organizations made me realize that this was the place for me. Salem State created an environment where I wanted to invest more of myself and find my place within the campus community.
What made you choose your major? What about your area of study ignites your passion?
I knew I had a knack for business from working construction before coming back to school. What made me choose philosophy, though, was my first-semester ethics class. It ignited a fire in me that I did not realize I had, a passion for a particular way of thinking and examining the world that I wanted to continue exploring while also rebuilding myself in the process. My area of study ignites my passion by peeling away layers of ignorance I did not even realize I had and allowing me to better understand people and life from different perspectives.
Do you live on campus or commute? If you live on campus, what have you enjoyed most about your experience? If you commute, how have you stayed engaged with the campus community?
I have both lived on campus and commuted. I currently live on campus as a resident assistant. I have enjoyed being near campus events and organizations and have always felt welcome to participate. Being around friends and the larger community has enriched my college experience.
How have you grown as a person during your college experience?
I have changed fundamentally as a person during my college experience. Not only have I learned practical things in the classroom, but I have also implemented lifestyle changes that made me more open, more understanding and more willing to take on new challenges and experiences. I have also grown as a friend by meeting new people and learning what it means to show up for others.
Can you describe a challenge that you overcame at Salem State?
A challenge I had to overcome at Salem State was being a non-traditional student. When I started here, many of my friends from high school were already almost done with their college careers, while I was just getting started. It was difficult to figure out where I fit in, especially as I adjusted to being back in an academic environment. Once I got settled, I had to forge my own path and figure out where I felt most connected and which organizations I wanted to be part of. I felt very lucky to have support along the way.
Could you discuss the relationships you've developed with faculty members and how these relationships have influenced your learning and personal growth?
I have developed a few key relationships with faculty members that have fundamentally shaped my college experience. I would not be where I am without people like Dr. Michael Mulnix, who supported me unconditionally throughout this journey. These relationships pushed me not only to be a better student but also to become more involved and supportive in the campus community. They helped me start projects, collaborate with departments and succeed in ways I never would have imagined. I am grateful for how they have influenced my growth as a person, friend, scholar and community member.
Can you describe the educational value and affordability you've experienced at Salem State University? How has the university supported your academic journey regarding quality and accessibility?
The educational value at Salem State has been incredible. The quality of the content in the classroom is excellent, and the support outside the classroom has been just as strong. Many of the professors I have met throughout my time here teach in a very professional and accessible way. If the material in class is difficult, they are almost always willing to meet after class to explain it more clearly. That level of support has made a major difference in my academic journey.
Salem State emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Can you share any memorable experiences where you've applied classroom knowledge in real-world settings or through projects?
Many of the small things I have learned in my business classes have made me a more valuable member of the organizations I am part of, because I am able to directly apply what I learn in the classroom to my work in the workplace. Sometimes that shows up in small quality improvements. Other times, it shows up in larger systemic changes that increase productivity and make a noticeable impact.
What are your post-graduation plans, and how do you believe your time at Salem State has equipped you for success in pursuing these plans?
My post-graduation plan is to apply to graduate school and pursue a PhD in philosophy. The philosophy department here, along with other departments across campus, has been more than supportive in helping me prepare for that next step. I feel as equipped as I possibly can as I begin the graduate school application process.