04/23/2026
Back in October, Giovanna was accepted as an “early action” candidate by several colleges and universities. Even with those great opportunities, she bravely applied to the universities that truly called to her, even though I was encouraging her to “just apply”(to the easy options)! Giovanna was accepted to seven universities with amazing scholarship opportunities. She even attended four out-of-state university accepted student tours. In the end, she chose the opportunity that felt just right for her.
When she was a little girl, she used to say, “I’m never leaving my mommy. I’m never going away to school. I’m going to live with my mommy forever.” It was the sweetest thing, and so believable. I didn’t want her to leave yet I also wanted her to have opportunities that were greater than I ever had. I wholeheartedly supported her moving out of state for schooling, wanting her to experience different things. Lil Rhody has always had my heart, and while I’ve lived in other states, my desire for Rhode Island always brought me back. When it came to post-secondary education, I chose a college that allowed me to commute from home. I wasn’t excited about the process, but I just needed to get it done. I wanted more for my daughter. Despite many outstanding post-secondary educational opportunities, Giovanna has chosen her home state as well, even though she will have the chance to experience campus life. I’m so excited and proud for her!
In such a joyous time, I can’t help but think of some of the struggles she had along the way, starting from kindergarten. I supported her, cheered her on, and consistently gave her positive messages to help her grow and overcome. With a little help, she overcame and excelled, making the educational process her own unique experience.
Giovanna has picked “the best public university in New England” and “the 34th-best public university nationally” right here in our state! She rang the bell 🔔 for the University of Rhode Island ⚓️, which was founded way back in 1888! She’ll be living on the main campus, diving into a double major in education and English, with a little extra flair in theater 🎭 . It’s like having the best of both worlds. She’s staying true to her roots in Lil Rhody, and I get to be super close to my daughter all year round. She didn’t leave me… She didn’t leave her home. She’ll always be there for me, and I’ll always be there for her. I’m so proud of my number one!💙⚓️🐏
University of Rhode Island
