Senior Profile: Ben Pigott

Photo courtesy of Ben Pigott.

What is your major and minor? What other academic programs were you a part of?

Kinesiology-chemistry dual major.

What are some of the jobs you held while at McDaniel?

Admissions ambassador, resident assistant, women’s lacrosse manager, Office of Student Engagement intern, Office of Diversity and Inclusion intern.

What organizations were you a part of at McDaniel? What positions did you hold?

Alpha Phi Omega (Fellowship VP), Honor and Conduct Board (student member).

Have you enjoyed your time at McDaniel? If so, what did you enjoy the most?

I have loved my time at McDaniel because it gave me the space to grow. The people I met became my chosen family and having their unconditional support allowed me to develop into the person I always wanted to be.

Who do you think was/is your best mentor?

Rich Goodman is and will always be my mentor because of the time and dedication he puts into his job and his students.

Describe your favorite memory at McDaniel.

My favorite memory is when my friends threw me a surprise party for my 21st and 22nd birthdays in my friend’s apartment!

What are some of the challenges you encountered and how did you overcome them?

I suffered with pretty severe mental health issues my sophomore year and truly did not think I would graduate. Two years later with the help of my friends, mentors, and the Wellness Center, and I am not only graduating, but I was accepted into my dream master’s program!

What are your plans for after graduation?

I’m getting my Master’s in College Student Development & Administration at Shepherd University, with an assistantship in Multicultural Student Affairs and an internship in Residence Life.

What would you tell yourself as a first-year student at McDaniel?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and trust your gut. The right people will stick by your side through anything and will help point you in the right direction.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with the McDaniel community?

McDaniel is such a special place filled with amazing people and opportunities. Sometimes you have to search for them, but if you put effort in you’ll be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams.