Madison D'Amico

Being a first-generation student is not easy, but with great support, motivation, and drive college is an amazing journey.

Advice for the Class of 2024

Speech Language Pathology : Deaf Studies and Psychology Minors

What does being a First-Generation College Graduate mean to you?

Being a First-Generation College Graduate is one of my greatest achievements. My family supported me through my choice to attend college and couldn't be more proud that I was the first in our family to attend and graduate college.

What is your proudest moment from your time at Ithaca College?

I have so many proud moments from my time at Ithaca. One of my proudest moments was creating and cultivating my own dance company on campus called IC Defy. Another proud moment was being able to graduate from Ithaca College with the highest honors with my best friends.

Madison

Who are the family members, friends or loved ones who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

The most influential people throughout my college journey was my mom and stepdad, Paul. They supported me from beginning to end, moved my in and out of countless dorm rooms and apartments, and were the first to call me and wish me good luck on every exam.

Who are the staff, faculty or mentors who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

The most important adult that changed my experience at Ithaca College and my life is Dr. Leah Muprhy. Leah provided me with four years of care and compassion and taught me not only how to be a better person but a better student, daughter, sister, and the best version of myself. She is my greatest role model and without her, I would have never found my passion in Speech-Language Pathology and would not be able to call myself and Ithaca College Alumni.

Madison

Are there any Clubs, Activities, or Involvements that you were a part of at Ithaca College?

 My greatest involvement in clubs and activities at IC is IC Defy Dance Company. In the second semester of my freshman year at Ithaca I decided to bring my passion for dance to the campus. I began researching how to start my own dance company, completed the many channels, and finally was able to officially start my dance company in the Spring of 2017. I graduated from Ithaca College handing down my dance company to some of the best people I have ever met. 

What do you plan or hope to do now that you have graduated?

Now that I have graduated from Ithaca, I will be attending the University of Vermont to obtain my Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.