Emma Goulet ‘23 | Physics and Psychology major, Astronomy and Planetary Science* minor
I realized that my Saint Anselm education wasn't just about preparing for a career – it was equipping me to advocate for communities whose voices are often silenced.
For Emma Goulet ’23, time at Saint Anselm was marked by transformative service experiences like Anselmian B.R.E.A.K. and Road for Hope, which deepened her understanding of marginalized communities and led to lasting friendships. Most recently, Goulet spent three months teaching physics in India to Buddhist monks and nuns.
What were you involved in on campus?
I participated in Anselmian B.R.E.A.K. on Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and Road for Hope. Through these experiences, I made incredible friendships and gained insights about the Oglala Sioux Nation and the charities we supported that I carry with me today.
I was the president of the Physics and Astronomy Society, served on the LGBTQIA+ Council Board, and was a part of the Campus Activities Board (CAB). I did research with Physics Professor Ian Durham on quantum physics, consciousness, and free will – which eventually led me to teaching quantum physics to Buddhist monks in India after graduation! I also tutored physics, worked as an astronomy teaching assistant, worked in Davison Hall and Geisel Library, and had some outside research jobs.
One of my coolest Saint Anselm experiences happened freshman year when the College hosted the 2020 Democratic presidential debates. I not only volunteered behind the scenes but got to ask a question on live TV and was interviewed by Don Lemon for CNN!
What is your favorite memory from your time at Saint Anselm?
If I had to pick standout experiences; it would likely be Anselmian B.R.E.A.K. and Road for Hope. There's something transformative about Road for Hope; while walking for days with fellow students, sharing blister stories, bonding over that unique smell we all developed while not showering, and doing it all for a good cause.
Anselmian B.R.E.A.K. connected me with an amazing group of women who I still consider close friends. We shared profound moments learning from the Pine Ridge community but also had small moments of connection – of people being terrified to go on planes, seeing the Aurora Borealis, or staying up late sharing personal stories. These service experiences stripped away the usual social pressures as young adults and connected us through something bigger than ourselves.
What advice would you give to a first-year student?
Get involved! I can't stress this enough. Saint Anselm provides exceptional access to mentors, resources, and experiences that aren't available outside an academic environment. The connections you forge with faculty and peers will prove invaluable in ways you cannot imagine.
Take advantage of political forums, debates, and discussions—staying informed and engaged is not just an educational choice but a civic responsibility, especially in times of social and political division.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your college years that has stayed with you?
The biggest lesson I took from Saint Anselm is that education comes with responsibility. My time on Pine Ridge Reservation showed me how many Americans know almost nothing about the challenges facing indigenous communities in their own country. Later, teaching Tibetan refugees in India, I saw how limited awareness of their situation allows oppression to continue unchallenged. I realized that my Saint Anselm education wasn't just about preparing for a career – it was equipping me to advocate for communities whose voices are often silenced. The Benedictine values taught in an Anselmian education – particularly the commitment to community and human dignity – are important to remember and take with you.
Were there any mentors or role models during your time in school who have had a lasting impact on you?
The extraordinary mentorship I received at Saint Anselm quite literally changed the trajectory of my life. Professor Durham in particular, formed and changed my career path. He fought for additional scholarships that made Saint Anselm financially possible for me before I even went to the College, invited me into quantum physics research before I'd even taken the course, and eventually offered me the incredible opportunity to teach in India post-graduation. Now we're colleagues working on a quantum physics textbook and some future projects together. **
The Physics Department was an amazing supportive community – Professors Nicole Gugliucci, David Guerra, and Alexander Smith all tolerated us physics students practically living in their offices with endless questions (or just hanging out.) In the Psychology Department, Professors Bertrand Ouellete, Joseph Troisi, and Elizabeth Rickenbach offered both academic guidance and personal support. These mentors are incredible people who invest deeply in students' intellectual, professional, and personal growth— I am endlessly grateful for the massive support that I received from them.
*Saint Anselm College now offers an Astrophysics minor and an Earth and Space Science minor.
**After teaching a three-month physics distance learning program in India, Emma and Professor Durham are collaborating to write a textbook for future courses which will be translated into Tibetan. The two returned to India for the 25th anniversary of the Science for Monks and Nuns program.