Name: Theresa Mary Bissex
Age: 19
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: South Huntington, NY
Major/Minor: “Music major, Italian minor (possible second major if I ever make up my mind)”
What are you involved in on campus? “Most of the time you can find me chillin’ in Public Square being a music nerd. Beyond all things music, I also participate in Club Italia, Youth for Christ, and Campus Ministries. As a member of the Honors Program, I try to get involved with events or opportunities the program offers.”
How did you become a United Nations Junior Ambassador? “I am a youth representative for an NGO (non-governmental organization) called Partnership for Global Justice, an organization which works at the UN and at large for causes such as the eradication of poverty, equal opportunity for education, protection of the environment, and more. As a university member of PGJ, Molloy can provide two youth representatives to the organization. I was blessed to be chosen as one of those youth representatives, along with my friend, Jennifer Mascaro.”
How many people applied? “I don’t know if this is always the case, but there was no application process. I was informed that the selection was based on academic record, faculty recommendations, and approval by the college President, Dr. Drew Bogner.”
Why did you want to do this/why did you decide to accept? “To be honest, I never anticipated becoming a youth rep! However, when I received the offer, I knew I should accept the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be an advocate for good. Global citizenship, the central concept of our Molloy Honors Program, is a vital goal for all members of society, particularly for us, the young generation. Global citizenship fosters solidarity between and among citizens of all different cultures. I am so grateful for this chance to develop myself, both as an American citizen and as a global citizen.”
What was the first thing you did when you found out you were chosen? “I squealed, ran around the house a few times, and called my Mom.”
Who/what is your biggest inspiration? “Every person I’ve encountered in my life has been a source of inspiration. Sometimes that inspiration comes from people I’ve never met, such as philosophers who are long dead but whose words are eternal, or saintly people whose lives teach universal lessons. Each individual life is a miracle, with potential to inspire. However, in a more down-to-earth sense, my biggest inspiration is my Mom, my wisest teacher, my strongest support, and my best friend.”
What do you aspire to be when you graduate? “I hope to continue my career as an organist and singer, while contributing to the common good in any way that I am able.”
What do you think prepared you to become the (amazing) person you are today? “That is a tough question to answer briefly. But, in a nutshell, my Catholic faith and my education. Faith is not only meant to be practiced; it is meant to be lived. The endeavor to live my faith and develop my relationship with God and other human beings has influenced every moment of my life. As for education, I don’t mean it in the ‘classroom’ sense. I was homeschooled K-12, so I didn’t exactly spend much time in classrooms before college! Yes, I had assignments, tests, a rigorous curriculum to follow, but I’ve learned many lessons outside of schoolwork, through observation, experience, and social interaction. The most basic requirements for education are an inquiring mind, and an interaction in a community of learners. If these requirements are met, education can happen almost anywhere!” (Check out John Green’s TED talk on the topic, which explains this concept!)
Do you have any other hobbies, goals or dreams? “Many, many, many. You can’t have too many. Some hobbies? Tea-drinking, reading, creative writing, crocheting, horseback riding and baking. Goals? Right now, travel as much as possible. Dreams? Wouldn’t you like to know!”
What is your life motto? “I don’t have a specific motto. But, this is a quote that has stayed with me for many years: ‘No one can do great things, only small things with great love’ -Mother Theresa”
What’s the next big thing for you? “On October 8th I will be at the United Nations attending events focused on Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Developmental Goals. Also coming up are quite a few musical performances, both at Molloy and elsewhere. The music department is preparing a Hispanic Heritage concert for October 21st! Come and see our awesome ensemble perform!”
Here is Theresa, accomplishing one of her goals – traveling! This picture was taken in Munich, Germany on the Freshman Honors Global Learning Trip with Molloy College!