Meet Ryan

Name: Ryan Barrett

Class of: 2023

Program: Master of Science in Information Technology w/ a conc. in Web Design

"Thank you! Without your continued scholarship support, students like myself would have to take out more loans or put their education on hold."


What do you like most about SNHU?

SNHU is a place of positive learning and it has small class sizes, which allows our faculty to know us so we're not just a number. 

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

It allows me to not have to continue to take loans out, which in turn helps me to not accrue more debt. 

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

Thank you! Without your continued scholarship support, students like myself would have to take out more loans or put their education on hold. 

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

I chose Southern New Hampshire University for the small class sizes and for the campus community. At SNHU you're not just another number. Faculty really get to know you — they want to see you graduate and achieve your dreams. 

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

My hope is to continue working with students and help future generations to get into college once I've completed my journey. My experience has been different than what I had imagined, as I never thought that I would finish my undergrad degree a semester early and be able to start my master's program so soon.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

What inspired me to choose my area of study was the fact that I got into computers in high school, which made me want to earn a degree in information technology. My dream job is to work with students in a public school district to allow them to experience the field that I love so much.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

The person that has been the biggest influence at SNHU is Dr. Liz Henley, who is a professor in the School of Business. Dr. Henley has taught me to never give up and keep trying until you achieve your goal. 

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I've been involved with the Office of Student Involvement, Student Government Association, and Penmen Press since my first year at SNHU. I've served as the Online Manager for Penmen Press for almost five years now. I also have served as a Senator, Executive Vice President of Internal Affairs, and the President of the Student Government Association. 

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

What I've found to be the most challenging aspect as a student is time management. I deal with this by making a schedule and rely on Outlook a lot, so I know where I need to be and when. 

What are you proudest of?

I'm the most proud of being able to serve for two years as the President of the SNHU Student Government Association.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I hope to stay involved post-graduation by visiting campus and continue to mentor students in the programs that I took part in for several years. I also hope to maybe join the Alumni Board of Directors. 

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