Dreama Manganiello '26 demonstrates the transformative power of education and community. Drawn to Marist for its strong reputation and opportunities, Manganiello has embraced her academic journey with purpose and passion. "Everyone I knew had some connection to Marist, whether it be a family member, friend, or alumni, they all had their own separate positive experience with the college," explained Manganiello. 

From discovering her calling to teach to making an impact through her internship, she is committed to breaking barriers in education and inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers and mathematicians. Her experience reflects the value of hard work, collaboration, and the pursuit of meaningful change.

Manganiello initially came to Marist as a Business student but switched her major to Mathematics and Secondary Education after being inspired by a class discussion on teaching methods. With a renewed motivation to assist students in understanding the concepts and complexities of math, Manganiello explained, "I want to make sure students leave my classroom and no longer feel the need to say, 'I'm just bad at math' or 'I hate math' and instead feel driven to problem-solve."

Reflecting on her internship with the Newburgh Early College High School Program (ECHS), Manganiello explains this opportunity was one of her most rewarding experiences. "It meant the world to me because it supplied students with the opportunity to take college credits in computer science at no cost to their family – a program I would have loved to have in high school." As a former student from an underserved community, she explained how the ECHS program supplies students with meals, transportation, and the chance to visit IBM. This internship also allowed her to learn more about the administrative side of academia by working alongside Cynthia Worrad, the Assistant Dean of Computer Science and Mathematics, and senior program coordinator and fellow student, Kiera Burns. "These relationships have been extremely meaningful... Both their hard work and dedication, along with their appreciation for the students, have been inspiring," she said.

Manganiello has found meaning in her courses. While studying mathematics presents challenges, she feels confident and equipped in her problem-solving abilities. She credits her success to hard work, dedication, and math professors. "The community in the School of Computer Science and Mathematics is unmatched. The relationships and environment make what appears to be a difficult major extremely worth it."