)
Thomas Flynn '22
“Marywood has given me the confidence to know that I can do whatever I want to do in the future.”
Thomas Flynn ’22 has had a special connection with Marywood virtually all his life.
His mom, Donna Tyson Flynn ’85, is a proud Marywood alumna whose connection to Marywood did not end once she received her degree.
“Throughout my life, my mom has taught me many lessons that align with the core values of Marywood,” Thomas said. “When it came time to decide where to go to college, I knew the choice was clear.”
It was far from the only reason he chose Marywood - the intimate size, Catholic environment, relative proximity to home, and financial aid also had a strong influence on his decision. But the chance to “follow in the footsteps on a very successful person in my life” as a Legacy Student was among the most important factor.
He is only in his second year at Marywood, but Thomas said he has already learned so much from his professors – both in terms of knowledge and in the confidence he has gained.
“Marywood and its helpful faculty and staff have given me the confidence to know that I can do whatever I want to do in the future,” Thomas said. “They have given me the skillset and knowledge to succeed in my future endeavors. The personal one on one attention that we receive from our instructors is unique and not seen often in many Universities”
An example of this passion and purpose Thomas has cultivated can be found in his field of study.
“Choosing my major was actually very difficult, I entered college not knowing whether I wanted to study education or business…I struggled with this decision.”
Instead of choosing one, Thomas decided to create his own path. He is currently studying Finance with a minor in Education, and plans to obtain his master’s degree in Education in the future.
“I ended up finding a way to follow both of my passions and it will give me many different options to pursue once I graduate.”
Thomas has already experienced a taste of one potential career path this summer. He interned with the Teacher Retirement System of New York City, communicating with teachers and clients. Thomas said he was made aware of this opportunity through connections at Marywood, and credits his involvement on campus in a variety of opportunities as the reason he earned the internship. His duties at the internship included communicating to teachers and clients about pension plans.
“It was a great opportunity for me to further my knowledge of the business world and get real work experience,” Thomas said.
Thomas still has several years remaining in his undergraduate studies, but he is already thankful for what Marywood has given him.
“Thanks to Marywood, not only can I get further in my future career, but I have also made lifelong connections and friendships that will impact my entire life.”
Like many past, current, and future Marywood students, Thomas receives scholarships that make his education a financial reality. Thomas acknowledged that without these scholarships, he would not have been able to study at Marywood.
Thomas said he looks forward to giving back to Marywood once he graduates, as a way show his gratitude to what was given to him.
"I plan on not only giving to Marywood financially but staying connected after I graduate – attending events and reunions, volunteering with the Alumni Association, and getting involved in any way I can,” Thomas said. “I want to give future Marywood students the same opportunities I have.”
Thomas is expected to graduated with his class in 2022. Upon graduation, Thomas said he plans to continue his education and pursue his masters, with future plans to work in government.
"When I walk across the stage during Commencement I expect to feel many things," Thomas said. "Sadness that I won’t be a Marywood student anymore. Excitement for my future endeavors knowing that Marywood has prepared me well for the future, and most of all nostalgic of all the memories that I have made at Marywood."
