“I am honored to receive this recognition and to represent the Learning Commons," said D’Ariano. “Funny story — student employment emailed me last week to meet for an interview. I was preparing to answer questions they may ask me and instead when I showed up, they surprised me to say that I had already won. I was not expecting it at all at that moment."

D’Ariano took her role to new heights. With the support of her supervisors, Director of Peer Education Bernard Grindel and Assistant Director of Peer Education Diana Swancutt, she developed and directed a brand-new media team.

“After leading several interviews and speaking with more than 20 candidates, I found my team of five students,” D’Ariano said.

 “As the director of this newly created team, I help each member understand their own individual responsibilities while providing them the creative space to collaborate with one another on projects," she said.

This initiative became a platform for collaboration across departments within the Learning Commons. D’Ariano and her team — Emily Meyer, Gabby Monteforte, August Della Donna, Amanda Sullivan and Daina Cleveland — work together to amplify opportunities for Quinnipiac students. From sharing event flyers and peer educator spotlights to coordinating QR codes for workshops and collaborating with academic coaches, the media team brings visibility and energy to the Learning Commons. 

Though D’Ariano’s title includes media, her biggest takeaway isn't about content creation — it was about leadership.

“I have always been the type of person who likes to figure things out and get them done on my own in my own way,” said D’Ariano. “Leading this team has taught me the importance of delegating work. It allows others the opportunity to shape a project in their own creative way. That’s something I’ll carry with me far beyond graduation.”

Throughout her years at Quinnipiac, D’Ariano has grown both personally and professionally.

“I have always struggled finding confidence within myself,” she said. “Through working as a peer catalyst and peer catalyst mentor, I was able to build confidence in my leadership. Creating the media team has shown me the impact I can have on others. If I can help even one student recognize they are not alone, then that is enough.”

As she prepares to graduate and begin her career in physical therapy, D’Ariano hopes to continue blending her passion for clinical care with her love of teaching.

“I know from my experience in the Learning Commons that I love to teach," said D’Ariano. "One day, I hope to work part-time in a clinic while also having the opportunity to work with students or mentor PT students during clinicals.”

Her advice for future graduate assistants is to follow their passions.

“If you find something that you are passionate about, it will allow your creativity to flow outside of school," she said. "Ask yourself why it matters to you, and then ask how you can share that message with others."

D’Ariano’s graduate assistant award serves as a testament to her commitment to the Learning Commons.