Open PAC

Cary Chiarelli '25

Major: Social Work

About me:I am a sophomore from Worcester, Massachusetts. I enjoy skiing, drawing, and hanging out with my dog.

Why PAC?Everyone learns differently, and I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to find support. I have struggled a lot in the past with studying, as well as simply being confident that I am able to retain the information I just read when it comes time to take the test or write the paper. So now I want to be able to share this with others so I could possibly help them avoid that struggle and skip to the confidence.

Favorite class and why? My favorite class has been Introduction to Public Health. Professor D’Isabel’spassion for public health made the course so inviting and fun. I loved learning about the health care and welfare systems in the United States. We also looked a lot at the COVID-19 pandemic and what the government did well in response and where their response was lacking. I definitely recommend taking this course if you get the opportunity. 

Academic advice: Give yourself a break. You got this. It is important to be aware of when you are putting to much pressure on yourself because that is not going to help you.

Joey Demarest '24 

Major: English and Political Science  (Intended)

About me: I am a Sophomore from Manhattan, New York City. I love watching and playing basketball and snowboarding.

Why PAC: In my Freshman year, I had the opportunity to work as a peer tutor and really enjoyed watching the progress of the student’s understanding of the topic. Being in Open PAC, I am able to have a greater responsibility with guiding students and helping them find the resources they need to achieve academic success in their courses. 

Favorite class and why: My favorite class so far was Fiction with Professor Parra because of the wide variety of texts we read as well as the new ways I learned to analyze and discuss them. This class affirmed for me that I want to major in English because of how it allowed me to feel passionate about the texts we discussed and be able to draw connections between works of different authors. 

Academic advice: There are many ways that students find success in their classes, but the most important is being prepared for whatever comes your way. One way to accomplish this is by having organized notes that can be reviewed easily.

Matthew Olivos '26

About me: I am a sophomore from Brooklyn, New York. I love painting and drawing on my free time, playing board games, and lemon tea! Outside of Open-PAC you can find me at club events and serving food at dhall.      

Why PAC? I went to Open PAC almost every single day throughout my freshman year and I loved the work environment. PAC gave me a supportive environment and a space where I wouldn't be distracted. As a result, I wish to foster the same environment for everyone and be a person people can reach out to for help if they need it.

Favorite Class and Why?  My favorite class was Food Fights. One reason I loved the class is because of the grading system. The grading system allows students to improve on their writing if it doesn't meet expectations the first time while also keeping students on their feet when it comes to deadlines. I also loved how the class spreads awareness about respecting other people's cultures as food is an important aspect of culture that provides comfort. Finally, I loved the environment the professor created and looked forward to the days she would bring her dogs.

Academic Advice: Remember to create a balance between work and social life so that that you're not burnt out from overworking or distracted from hanging out with friends. Additionally, remember to focus on yourself instead of comparing yourself to your peers.