The graduating class of 2023 is full of driven students who have each had unique experiences throughout their years at The Catholic University of America. Each student, however, started out in the same way – moving into the dorms.
From moving in to moving on, seven seniors caught up with us to provide an update on how they have transformed throughout their college experiences.
Brian Murphy, a Potomac, Maryland native, chose Catholic University for its D.C. location as well as the numerous opportunities to grow in his faith life. Brian moved into his dorm in 2019 as a politics major, ROTC member, and soccer player. He was driven to achieve a high GPA and secure political internships on Capitol Hill.
As he started his college journey, Murphy was excited to discover new restaurants throughout the city, but said that leaving behind his friends and family would be difficult. Murphy still enjoyed Fruit Roll-ups as a late night snack. He loved to watch Narcos and Mad Men in his free time. Before meeting other "friendly" peers, Murphy pumped himself up for moving into the dorms by listening to “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen.
Has your major changed?
No, I stuck with politics. I played soccer and did ROTC as well.
What has been your favorite memory at CUA?
Definitely playing soccer. This year we made the Sweet Sixteen, and that was the furthest we have gone. Our coach has been in the program for 20 years, and I think that was the furthest he had gone in his time here.
What are your plans for the future?
I am joining the army as an officer. I will be a platoon leader. That’s the plan as of now.
What is one thing you will be sad to leave behind, and one thing you are looking forward to after graduation?
I will be sad to leave the community. Everyone is nice. I will visit my buddies at other state schools, and it is just not the same environment.
I have senioritis, so I am definitely looking forward to the next chapter. I love this school, but I am definitely ready to keep going.
What’s your favorite show to binge watch?
Yellowstone
How about the last song you listened to?
"Dreams" by Fleetwood Mac
What is one goal you hope to accomplish?
My short term goal is to just finish my initial training.
What is your final impression of CUA?
I am very glad I came here. It is exactly what I needed. It’s a smaller school, very structured. I was not as mature as I am now when I came in as a freshman. I am very glad I picked it.
If you could go back in time and tell yourself something on your first day, what would it be?
More patience. Stop procrastinating, just finish your work, and then you can relax. Things work themselves out.