Inside and outside of the classroom, Allison Duarte is learning how to be a strong communicator.

As a public relations major, Allie’s coursework has been preparing her to serve as the spokesperson for a company or client using a variety of methods, such as print publications and speeches. She says she would like to work as a public relations manager for a non-profit organization after she graduates from New Paltz in 2009.

Interactions that bring Allie in contact with people are what have made her college experience such a success. As a greeter in the campus’ Welcome Center, Allie is often one of the first members of the campus community that a person comes in contact with when they visit or call New Paltz. Allie is also a student manager for the center, which is located on the first floor lobby of the Haggerty Administration Building. She is one of two student managers who work with the director in hiring and training new employees, updating displays and managing inventory.

During the past two summers, Allie has worked as an orientation leader. In this role, she introduces incoming first-year students to the campus. When classes are in session during the academic year, Allie is a resident assistant and works with current students living on campus. She has also served as president of Circle K, a service organization on campus. In the fall, she will begin work with the National Residence Hall Honorary as the group’s vice president.

Allie says she gains so much by helping others. “It’s nice to know that I’m part of other people’s support systems,” she says.

Allie says the people she has made friends with at New Paltz – including students, staff and faculty – have played a large part in shaping the person she is today.