Quin Gonell, Salem State University, SSS Alumnus
In 2005 Quin Gonell graduated Lawrence High School and became an SSS student at Salem State College to begin what he describes as “the most enriching and developmentally fulfilling four years of his life”.
Thanks to the Salem State College TRIO staffers, it wasn’t long before Quin knew he would have to work hard through the academically vigorous summer program to prove he had what it takes to be a successful college student. That he did, and within a year, Quin quickly found himself mixing into student leadership circles throughout the campus.
By the end of his sophomore year Quin was chosen by his peers to help lead the Hispanic American Society as Vice President while also securing himself a position as a Resident Assistant in the College Residence halls. Quin credits “the quality and well balanced education provided by the SSC SSS” for the knowledge and wisdom which has been critical in guiding him through his journey.
In 2007, Quin had the opportunity to travel to Colombia and became involved in a human rights campaign to end abuses caused by multinational coal mining corporations.
When Quin returned from Colombia he became increasingly involved in social consciousness efforts across campus and gained recognition for his efforts. He was eventually given the opportunity to intern for Senator Edward M. Kennedy. During the summer of 2008 Quin contributed to national causes as a Congressional insider working with Kennedy’s staff to pass historic legislation on higher education.
Upon returning to Salem State College, Quin was elected as Student Body President and in this role worked enthusiastically to unite students from across the campus and then from across the state to advocate for students; and pressure state legislators to support public higher education.
While in college, Quin also worked three summers for the Salem State College Upward Bound College-Prep Program as a Peer Leader and Bridge Student Coordinator. As a UB staff member Quin contributed to the programs efforts of providing inner-city high school students with the life skills and academic foundation that will help them strive in college.
In the spring of 2009, Quin Gonell graduated from Salem State College and has returned to Lawrence High School. There he has become dedicated to teaching history in the hopes of educating and inspiring the children of his hometown to “think and achieve vastly”.