As an aspiring software developer, Cassidy Heulings '26 knew choosing a school to study computer science that has ties to a tech leader would be hugely beneficial. And she was right. 

The most meaningful academic experience she has had was her work with the Marist-IBM Joint Study Program, the Gorton, Mass., resident said. 

"I ended up with many close relationships to fellow colleagues and professionals in the Precision Time Protocol field and at IBM," Cassidy said. "My specific project allowed me to further improve my skills in not only multiple programming languages but also different platforms and software environments."

Working alongside IBM's brightest minds would be intimidating for a lot of 20-somethings, but Cassidy's Red Fox journey was something they could bond over.  

"Many IBM employees are Marist alumni, so they share their stories with Marist students, helping students learn how to be successful and land their future careers," she said. 

The other benefit of Marist is the small class sizes. Cassidy felt comfortable asking questions in class. She also got to know her professors "on a more meaningful level," she said. 

"Office hours are never crowded, and the professors I have had cared about their students' success — not only in class but also in finding an internship or career path suited to them," she added.

Before she graduates, Cassidy has one focus: Learn as much as she can and build as many skills as she can so that one day she can do something that has a "big impact for the better," she said.