How Paola Carlesso found her #HomeAtRider : "From a very young age, I knew that I wanted to pursue a college degree at a place where I could develop as a student as well as an athlete. I looked at various schools throughout my recruiting process, but as soon as I met with the swimming and diving coaches at Rider, I knew it was the right place for me. I have so many favorite Rider memories, that it is very difficult to choose only one. However, I would say that traveling to Oslo, Norway to attend the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in 2022 has to be my very favorite. That trip was the culmination of months of hard work, so getting the opportunity to have that experience alongside other Rider students, who also became my friends, was special. My best piece of advice for someone who is considering Rider, especially if they are an international student like I am, is to not be afraid of getting out of your comfort zone! Take advantage of each opportunity you get to connect with other international students, as well as with the Rider community in general. The connections you build and the memories you make throughout your time in college are some of the most special, so cherish every second of it!" Paola Carlesso is a senior international student from Venezuela majoring in global studies with a minor in political science and French. She serves as head delegate for Rider's Model UN team and vice president of @ridersaac. She works in Rider's Office of International Education (@rideroie) as well as the Student Recreation Center, and is a member of @rusdt.