Emmy Perry Balances Leadership, Academics, and Growth

As a student body resident, a sophomore scholar, and presidential ambassador Emme Perry holds a variety of leadership roles that sets her apart from others of the University of New England. 

March 28, 2025 

Maeve McDermott 

University of New England Communications student 

When Emme Perry, sophomore at the University of New England, first stepped onto campus she wasn’t sure if she made the right choice. Worried about finding her place and where she truly belonged she decided to join the Undergraduate Student Government. 

Less than two years later she found herself deeply involved within the University, holding several major leadership roles such as the president of Undergraduate Student Government, Presidential Ambassador, and Student Organizational Manager.

Encourage by her peers, she decided to run for the presidential role of USG

This has given her center stage for advocating for students with food allergies on campus. 

Her involvement had given her a rare opportunity of a behind the scenes view of the University’s operations  and, in return, has given her a deeper connection to the institution. 

Beyond her leadership in USG and ambassador roles, Emmy works as a Student Organizational Manager, helping over 100 campus clubs thrive. Within this role, she has developed strong leadership skills, learned how to motivate teams, and has discovered her personal leadership style. Along with 

There are days where the roles of her academic life combined with her roles feel overwhelming. Balancing so many responsibilities and commitments has been something Emmy is extremely grateful to have the opportunity to do but it has taught her the life lesson of knowing when to step back. Understanding that overworking herself was taking a toll on her mental health, academics, and even her effectiveness as a leader. 

This journey has been challenging on her, but the rewards of growth and making a difference is unlike any other.

To students, even ones that are first year students, Emmy’s advice is extremely important and powerful. “Don’t ever sell yourself short; you are more than capable of taking on bigger leadership roles and bigger projects. Don’t undermine your own talents and skills and abilities just because you’re too young or you don’t have enough experience. Own your talents, own your own self confidence, and just go for it, because you never know what one conversation, one opportunity, one job, one class, one club is going to lead to.”