2015 Graduate Spotlight - Faith Bulgar
Bay State College’s 69th Annual Commencement Ceremony is just over a week away, and we could not be more proud of our 2015 graduates.
Commencement is a wonderful event where students from our Day, Evening and Online Divisions from both our Boston and Taunton campuses come together to celebrate all of their accomplishments. This week we caught up with one of our Taunton graduates, Faith Bulgar, as she picked up her cap and gown to prepare for the big event.
Like many of our students, Faith came to Bay State after many years away from the classroom. Driving by our old campus in Middleboro back in 2010, Faith’s daughter (knowing that her mom had always thought about going back to school) suggested she look into taking some classes. Shortly after, Faith attended an Open House and learned more about the Criminal Justice program. For years, Faith has worked for the District Attorney’s office in Wareham and the Criminal Justice program just seemed to make sense.
Despite being nervous, Faith says the transition back to the classroom was made easier by the support she received at Bay State from staff, faculty, and her fellow students.
“I spent some time talking to [Taunton admissions counselor] Renae,” says Faith. “And the next thing I know, I’m sitting in English 1. I gained confidence. My self-esteem went up. Some days were harder than others, but the time started to fly. It just happened.”
As Administrative Assistant Lead at the District Attorney’s office, Faith was able to take what she was learning in class and really apply it on a daily basis. Her position requires her to be in front of people as they possibly appear in court for the first time. Gaining knowledge in all aspects of the court system allowed her to provide helpful information to the people she interacts with.
“It’s nice to be able to see every part of the court system and how they fit together,” she says. “I understand everything better now – especially after my two internships with Probation in the Wareham courts and my general internship at the Marion Police Department.”
As a bachelor’s degree candidate, Faith has been taught by many of our experienced Criminal Justice professors. One thing she’s learned throughout the process is that she likes to be challenged.
“[Criminal Justice Program Chair] Dr. Morrissette challenges you. He sees qualities in people and knows how to bring out the best in them. Between him and the other Criminal Justice faculty, I felt like they were teaching Criminal Justice because they really care- because it matters to them.”
When we asked Faith if she had any advice for students thinking about going back to school, her response was “just do it.”
“When my kids were growing up, I would tell them some things were just ‘have to’s.’ Getting a degree is one of those things, and if you come to Bay State, you’ll acquire the tools to make it happen.”
It was such a pleasure getting to meet you, Faith! With such a positive attitude, we see nothing but great things in your future. Congratulations on this big accomplishment!