Leah Pedersen| Hometown: Whitman, Mass. | Biology / Psychology

I cannot begin to express what Suffolk University has done for me as a woman and athlete. It gave me opportunity to study both the fields of biology and psychology, land an internship in research, and be a part of clubs and organizations, all while continuing to play the sport I love at the collegiate level. The connections and the friendships I’ve made during my four years here are both overwhelming and humbling. I never thought I’d be where I am today— writing this as I end my volleyball career and continue toward graduation in May.  

To my teammates I am leaving: I will never step on the court again to play by your side. I will not be there for the double sessions and lifts during preseason next year. I will not be at warm ups before a game ever again. I will not be on the sidelines to cheer so loud I lose my voice. I will not be at late practices, nor the early morning ones. I will, however, always cheer you on. I will always support your growth as a volleyball player and a human being. Never stop hustling. Don’t you ever give up on yourself or each other. I know you lost seven seniors this year, but push toward playoffs. Keep breaking records. Keep having each other’s back. Play our game.  

To future Rams:  Don’t take this time for granted. Four years seems like a long time, but just like high school, your time at Suffolk will be gone before you know it. You are not at Suffolk to just earn a degree. You are here to also build who you are, and who you plan to be. Its okay if you don’t know what you’re doing; only a few of us know exactly what we want (and that doesn’t include me). Reach out to each other. Make connections. Talk to somebody outside of your major that you wouldn’t think you’d have anything in common with. That person might turn out to be your best friend. Have an experience at Suffolk that you can look back on and be grateful for. 

Best,
Leah Pedersen
Suffolk ‘19