Like many college students, Ydrovo’s journey with change started when she left her hometown in New Jersey to begin her undergraduate career at Quinnipiac.

Immersing herself in an entirely new community marked a turning point in her life when she would experience constant change, both personally and academically. 

Without giving in to the fear of the unknown, Ydrovo dove into this new chapter headfirst.

During her time at Quinnipiac, she took on experiences including serving as a women’s soccer beat reporter and web director at Q30, a senior account executive at The Agency at Quinnipiac, editor in chief for QBSN, student ambassador for the School of Communications, an orientation leader and a digital platforms assistant in the Marketing and Communications Office.

Ydrovo learned how to adapt with confidence and embrace transformation. 

“I think growth means ‘perseverance,’ especially in times of uncertainty,” said Ydrovo. “When everything is changing around me and I really don’t know what is going to happen next, I just have to keep moving forward. I don’t think I would be able to grow as much as I did if I only focused on things that were going wrong or out of my control.”

For Ydrovo, Quinnipiac was not only the place where she would earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, but it was the catalyst for personal growth that would prove to be invaluable to her development. 

“Quinnipiac has shaped my experience personally, academically and professionally by providing me with the resources needed to be successful,” she said. “Wherever I turned or went, there was someone there who was willing to help or guide me. There was never a shortage of guidance or advice to go around, which really allowed me to see every side of a situation and make the best decision possible.”

Living in such a high-paced and ever-evolving environment, Ydrovo learned how to stay grounded in her values and personal goals, while also giving herself the comfort and security to seize new opportunities. 

“Setting boundaries and being able to say no has been a big help for me. It has allowed me to prioritize what I want and need to get done,” said Ydrovo. “It is also my way of not giving too much of myself to everyone. Instead, it allows me to focus on myself and have that necessary self-care time. I know when I have spent myself and spread myself too thin, so having that time to reset and relax is really crucial for me.”

In addition to setting boundaries and staying true to who she is, Ydrovo also highlights the value of remaining flexible. 

“I think my ability to grow through change will help me remain flexible. It is something that I sometimes find myself needing a reminder of,” she said. “It is equally important to stick to what you want and remain strong and steady in your morals and values, but also to have the ability to be flexible when things change. Knowing that I can be flexible and adapt when things change in the next chapter is important because it is a reminder of who I am.”

In times of uncertainty, Ydrovo emphasized the importance of leaning on her community for support and guidance. 

“There are so many people who I have come to love and value during my four years at Quinnipiac," said Ydrovo. "Professionals, Jamie DeLoma and Brian Koonz never fail to sit and listen to me rant about whatever is going on and offer advice and support in whatever capacity they can. Best friends, Madison Fahlborg and Michael Singer have seen every side of me and have never judged me for it and I have done the same for them, which has allowed us to grow and support each other. The public relations department is extremely supportive and kind and is truly with you every step of the way.” 

Graduating with her master’s degree in public relations this past May, Ydrovo’s journey to embracing uncertainty has led her to a moment of pride, knowing that she has achieved one of her biggest goals. 

“I think my proudest moment here is graduating and knowing that I have not only finished but earned two degrees in the span of four years,” she said. “Knowing that I am walking with my master’s at 22 years old is something I have not really come to terms with. It has been something I have been working towards for the past four years, and to get here and be here now is a really proud moment for me.” 

Although her chapter at Quinnipiac has come to an end, Ydrovo takes her education, experiences and life lessons about change with her. 

“I do not have a super clear picture of what I see for myself in ten years because things are constantly changing,” said Ydrovo. “I just know that no matter what, I want to continue to grow, learn and explore because that is something I think is really important and a huge value in my life.”  

For fellow students, whether beginning or ending a chapter, Ydrovo encourages Bobcats to be present and enjoy the journey. 

“Savor every moment. The good, the bad and the in-between are all of the moments that shape you into who you are and who you are going to be,” she said. “It’s important to reflect on where you are and where you were and how you got there. Savor everything because one day you will wake up and be walking across the library steps, looking back on how you got there.”