Name: Bailey Wadsworth
Hometown: Booneville, NY
Major: Business Administration
Graduation Year: 2025
Why did you choose SUNY Poly?
I grew up locally but never thought I would end up here. The name of this “Polytechnic Institute” scared me as a business major. Once I toured and found out they had my major, I found my home. The people, environment, and culture here made me fall in love.
Why did you decide to pursue Business Administration as your major?
Since I was 14, I have worked in nonprofit organizations. I have had the opportunity to lead, program, and coordinate initiatives in these organizations. I fell in love with the idea of building programs and organizational opportunities within different companies.
How would you describe your relationship with your professors?
I have an amazing relationship with my professors! I have many online classes, but even with an online workload, the professors are always open for questions and meetings!
Is there an impactful academic experience that you’ve had that stands out to you?
During my first year at Poly, I was in a class taught by a local attorney. Not only did this allow me to make connections with local law firms, but I was able to hear stories from the real world!
What extracurricular activities are you involved in on campus?
-Former Student Government at Utica (SGU) Senator
-Current SGU Secretary
-Interim SGU Office Manager
-Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Office Staff
-Orientation Advisor
-Admissions Student Ambassador
-SUNY SA Executive Director of Student Voices
Why do you feel it’s important for students to get involved on campus?
As someone who started at SUNY Poly expecting to make no friends, I learned quickly that I was very mistaken. After attending events, holding on-campus jobs, and utilizing every resource on campus, I have not only made great connections, but I have made amazing friends. From meeting with our Career Services Coordinator, Mike Badolato to attending comedians hosted by the Wildcat Events Board, I have met an amazing community of people who have allowed me to call this place my home. It is truly important to stay connected with your school and with the faculty and students that surround it. This campus is home to many wonderful resources and avenues of student involvement and it is crucial to find yours; and there’s no better place to do so than SUNY Poly.
What has been your favorite class at SUNY Poly?
Business Law or Theories of Leadership
What has been your favorite campus life experience at SUNY Poly?
Being in SGU, I am aware of all events and activities on campus!
Can you explain what your role is in SUNY SA’s “Student Voices”?
My role in SUNY SA as the Executive Director of Student Voices means that I have the opportunity to oversee an amazing team of 8 directors who all work in different areas of student advocacy. With this, we lobby legislations and push for additional resources, funding, and access to higher education. I have had the opportunity to attend Governor Hochul’s Inauguration, meet with SUNY Board of Trustees Meryl Tisch, and have created a close connection with the SUNY Student Assembly President, Alexandria Chun. I’ve had the joy of bringing SUNY Poly representation to a larger scale and have loved my experience working to promote all areas of SUNY life.
What are your dreams after SUNY Poly?
After graduation, I hope to find a home in the Student Involvement office on campus. I will miss my friends and the culture behind this campus!