For many members of the Class of 2025, the journey of learning continues. With big goals and a passion for discovery, these graduates are pursuing advanced degrees in fields ranging from meteorology to psychology. Their commitment to growth and exploration sets the stage for even greater achievements. Discover the paths they are charting as they take their next steps in higher education.
Fueled by purpose, shaped by perseverance
Glenna Jackson, human development
For Glenna Jackson, SUNY Oswego wasn’t just a place to earn a degree — it was a turning point in a life defined by resilience, compassion and an unshakable belief in the power of human connection.
As a human development major and adult learner, Jackson maintained a 3.8 GPA and earned a spot on the President’s List every semester. But behind that academic excellence is a story of profound personal strength. While pursuing her studies, Jackson endured unimaginable loss — her husband, her sister and most recently, her daughter. Through it all, she found strength in her community at Oswego.
“Professor Stetson Randall was there for me every step of the way,” she says. “He showed real empathy and helped me reach the finish line.”
Jackson’s journey has been defined by both determination and purpose. “I was born to make a difference and to love all humanity from every walk of life,” she says. “I’m a professional helper…I love people!”
Internships and mentoring younger students gave Jackson the chance to lead by example. Many affectionately call her “Ms. Glenna,” looking up to her as a guide and a source of encouragement. “Being around students from all over the world with dreams of changing lives…it inspired me every day,” she says.
This May, she will walk across the stage at Commencement with plans to pursue graduate study in social work. Her advice to future Lakers? “Step out, believe you can do it, and see yourself walking across the stage in the end. Giving up is not an option.”
From lakeside memories to law school dreams
Madelyn Terry, psychology and criminal justice
For Madelyn Terry, SUNY Oswego has been more than just a place to earn a degree — it’s where she discovered her passion for public policy and her path to law school. A double major in psychology and criminal justice, Terry will graduate in May 2025 and head to Albany Law School to pursue her juris doctor degree.
Hailing from the Albany area, Terry found her place at Oswego not just in the classroom but across campus. She was actively involved with Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology, and Vega, the junior and senior honor society, while also serving as a tour guide and office worker in the Admissions Office. Her commitment to her studies and community was further recognized when she received the David Cutler Outstanding Senior in Criminal Justice Award. As a member of the Honors Program, she embraced rigorous academics, completing a thesis that prepared her for the research and writing demands of law school.
Terry also gained real-world experience early on, landing an internship at the New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs the summer after her first year — a role that solidified her interest in law and advocacy. “My criminal justice courses gave me new ideas for legal interests I hadn’t considered before,” she shared, crediting professors like Matthew McLeskey and Celinet Duran-Jimenez for their guidance and mentorship.
Her time at Oswego wasn’t solely defined by academics. Some of her favorite memories include going to the beach and watching sunsets with friends after finals — moments she says she’ll miss the most, along with the strong sense of community and the support from faculty.
Reflecting on her choice to attend SUNY Oswego, Terry said she was drawn to the school’s spirit, community feel and the opportunities it provided for academic and professional growth. Her advice to future Lakers? “Say yes to everything and slow down — it's easy to always be looking ahead, but time flies by and you should enjoy every second of it.”
With law school on the horizon, Terry’s journey is just beginning, but she’s confident that the lessons and experiences she gained at Oswego have set her up for success.
Exploring possibilities, Oswego to a Ph.D. in social psychology
Cassandra VanDamme, psychology
When Cassandra VanDamme first stepped into a Quest session at SUNY Oswego, she wasn’t presenting — she was observing. But something clicked.
“I was blown away by the super interesting work other students were doing,” she said. “I had a lot of fun bouncing between sessions, and I knew I wanted to present in the future too.”
That sense of wonder and academic curiosity has defined VanDamme’s journey as a psychology major with a minor in biocultural anthropology. Now, as she prepares to graduate in May 2025, she’s set to begin the next chapter: pursuing a Ph.D. in social psychology at the University at Buffalo.
“I love research and teaching, and a Ph.D. will allow me to continue both of those passions as a professor,” VanDamme shared. “The faculty at the University of Buffalo made me feel at home immediately.”
She credits SUNY Oswego — and specifically the Psychology department — with helping her get there. “Oswego offers so many great opportunities for teaching, research and getting involved,” she said. “That variety of experience made me a competitive candidate this year.”
VanDamme says her growth wouldn’t have been possible without the mentorship of professors like Matthew Dykas, Ashlee Moore and Yuhyeon Seo. “They helped me more than I can possibly express in words,” she added.
Her advice to future students? “If something looks even slightly interesting to you, try it! Even if it’s not for you, at least you figured that out — and that experience is so valuable.”
From Oswego skies to the Great Plains, forecasting the future
Thomas White, meteorology
When Thomas White arrived at SUNY Oswego, he was fascinated by the weather — but it was through research, mentorship and hands-on learning that he discovered his path forward in atmospheric science.
A meteorology major with a math minor, White will graduate in May 2025 and head to the University of North Dakota to pursue a master’s degree in atmospheric science. He’ll begin on a Graduate Research Assistantship, working alongside faculty whose research interests closely align with his own.
“The research experience I gained at Oswego really set the foundation,” he said. From classroom projects to field work, White made the most of every opportunity — including his favorite experience: Project LEE, a hands-on field campaign led by professor Scott Steiger studying the phenomenon of lake-effect lightning.
Support from Oswego’s faculty played a major role in his journey. Professors like Scott Steiger, Yonggang Wang and Katelyn Barber encouraged him to step beyond the classroom, connect with professionals and explore where his interests could take him.
His advice for future Lakers? “Get involved in special opportunities, and don’t be afraid to connect with your professors — they want to help you succeed.”