Salem State University
Alumni Association Newsletters

Jaclyn Cirinna '19

Jaclyn Cirinna ‘19 never envisioned herself attending college, especially when she stopped showing up to her high school classes at age 14 and became involved with the Massachusetts Department of Child and Families. But, with help from Salem State’s Summer Bridge Academy and TRIO Student Supportive Services, Jaclyn graduated this past spring a year earlier than her cohorts!
“TRIO SSS has shown me that regardless of my economic status, learning disability, or ADHD, I am capable of earning a four-year degree,” Jaclyn said. “Not only did they provide free tutors and guidance on how to navigate my college experience productively, but they never gave up on me.”

Learn more about her story.

For the last 11 years, the First Year Reading Experience (FYRE) program has connected new students to the university community through a shared reading experience, welcoming them to a culture that values the thoughtful discussion of ideas. Students are provided a book, selected by the university community, to read over the summer and engage in dialogue with their peers and other members of the Salem State community in small discussion groups at the start of classes. This year’s selection, The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez, tells the story of a community of immigrants whose lives are transformed by the experiences that pulled them towards the United States and reshaped their lives once they arrived.

Learn more about the program and past selections!

Interested in reading along? Contact Alumni Relations at alumni@salemstate.edu or 978.542.7530 and we’ll send you a copy of The Book of Unknown Americans!