STUDENT PROFILE Photo by Jodie Andruskevich
Hard work, dedication, and integrity: Jacob “Jake” Nelson Class of 2015 Bachelor of Science in Marketing by Michelle Marrone
Jake Nelson̓s Rivier education extends beyond his business classes. He credits his mentors, teammates, and community service experiences with providing valuable life lessons for his continued success. Favorite Food: Chicken Favorite Movie: Remember the Titans Favorite Book: Slam! by Walter Dean Myers Favorite App: Snapchat If you could do or be anything in life, what would it be? I would love to be a college or university basketball coach.
Why did you choose Rivier University? I knew Rivier had a strong business program. I had attended Rivier basketball camps and games since I was 10 years old and had a great relationship with head Coach Dave Morissette, so I knew I’d be happy in the Rivier community. What did you hope to gain from your Rivier experience? I came in with a bigger goal than achieving a degree. I wanted an education that would prepare me for my career. Who have been your Rivier mentors and how have they helped you? Business professors Dr. Wayne, Dr. Toosi, and Dr. Kivenzor have helped me to not only succeed in their classes, but also to prepare for job success after graduation. Basketball coaches, Dave Morissette and Chris Giordano pushed me to achieve goals I did not think I could reach. Coach Giordano’s motto “hard work and dedication” continues to be a motivator for me. How has being a basketball team member impacted your college career? I loved being part of the basketball team because I contributed to something bigger than any individual could achieve alone. I learned to show good character through wins and losses and that no matter what obstacle is placed in your path, you have to attack it. My coaches and team members helped me come back from two ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries. I became a better player and a stronger person as a result. Rivier’s mission, ‘transforming hearts and minds to serve the world,’ invites students to be the best they can be. Has this been your experience? Absolutely. One semester I volunteered at The PLUS Company, which serves young adults with disabilities. It was a very humbling and amazing experience because while I was supposed to be teaching sports and teamwork to the group, I was actually learning lessons from them. Phil, who was in a wheelchair, loved basketball. We practiced every day; he took shots on the net, and I rebounded for him. He never made a basket until the last week when he finally sunk one. His smile was priceless. Knowing I helped put that smile on his face—well, I’ve never had a more rewarding experience. Phil’s perseverance taught me to never settle—to be the best I can be in every aspect of my life. I can’t thank The PLUS Company and Rivier University enough for the opportunity to learn such valuable lessons. The University is always trying to better the lives of people in need, and I am proud to be a Riv student because of this.
20 RIVIER TODAY THE MAGAZINE OF RIVIER UNIVERSITY