A fond memory of inflatable, "oversized" sports, courtesy of Target, stuck out in Stephanie Locatelli's mind when thinking about her time at Boston College. After finishing her thesis, her Mod-mates decided a giant inflatable basketball and basketball hoop were a wise purchase. Soon enough, the six girls had also purchased inflatable soccer, hockey, badminton, and Frisbee. It was an afternoon of Mod fun that Locatelli has never forgotten.
Although she only graduated from BC in 2006, Locatelli speaks of her college experience with more enthusiasm than most adults speak of their children. "Whenever I think back on my four years there, I'm always a little incredulous that in one place I met so many inspiring people. From professors, to staff, to fellow students, there are so many people at BC who have such a passion for life," she says in an e-mail.
Through it all, Locatelli attributes her BC education as a reason for her spirit. "It's difficult to be at BC and not feel challenged to do your best, to find your niche in the world and really come into your own," she says.
While at BC, Mod sports aside, Locatelli majored in international studies on the political science track and minored in Italian. She took on an internship the summer before her senior year in the state department, working with five or six returned Peace Corps volunteers who convinced her to volunteer herself.
After graduating, Locatelli then threw herself into volunteerism - finally persuaded by her colleagues - and joined the Peace Corps. "I've always been interested in service, traveling, learning new languages, and learning about new cultures. I've done a lot of work with kids, from summer camp to classroom settings. My Peace Corps service basically pulls all these things together." Locatelli also notes that in her other travels she was more or less just a visitor. Her time abroad with the Peace Corps, however, has granted her the opportunity to be a community member, something she regards as priceless.
Spring Break
