Caroline (Ihlefeld) Gallagher ’20 | Psychology major
I chose Saint Anselm because when I stepped foot on campus for the first time, it felt like home.
A native of Fairfield, Conn., Caroline (Ihlefeld) Gallagher ’20 spent her first-year post-grad working as a patient advocate at the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital while pursuing a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Sacred Heart University. After completing her master’s, she moved to Massachusetts and began working on the corporate side of the field as a human resources generalist and an employee relations manager.
Were you involved in any clubs or organizations at Saint Anselm College?
I was involved in a number of campus clubs and organizations, including Student Government Association (SGA), New Student Orientation, Student Alumni Ambassadors, the Judiciary Board, Psychology Department Ambassadors, & the College Choir. For many of these, I didn’t get involved until my sophomore or junior year- it’s never too late!
What internship/research opportunities did you participate in?
During my junior year, I did an independent study with a local clinical neuropsychologist and Professor Kathleen Flannery, which prepared me for my senior thesis. I also participated in service learning at the Manchester Police Athletic League and interned during my senior year at Pine Haven Boys Center.
What was your favorite thing to do on campus?
My favorite thing to do on campus was attend sporting events to support classmates and friends.
Did you have a favorite place to study?
My favorite place to study was in the Roger and Francine Jean Student Center. I miss being able to go there and study, while also being surrounded by friendly and supportive faces.
What made you choose Saint Anselm?
I chose Saint Anselm because when I stepped foot on campus for the first time, it felt like home. My instincts about it were 100% correct - it quickly became a home to me, and has brought me friends that are like family, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Did you have favorite professor or mentor on campus?
My mentor on campus was Professor Flannery, who I worked closely with on a number of projects. I would not have made it through without her! I would also be remiss to not mention Professor Elizabeth Rickenbach, who taught both my first ever and last ever classes at Saint Anselm- General Psychology and Senior Internship. She saw me through many challenges and was so positively impactful during my time on the Hilltop.