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Karli Ricciuti ’25 has known she wanted to study dental hygiene since she was a kid. She fondly remembers hearing stories told by her mom, a dental hygienist, about how she put a smile on her patients’ faces. She became passionate about being able to make a similar impact in her own career.

Although she was not able to have a one-on-one visit to the University because of the coronavirus global pandemic, she did take a drive-through tour of the campus, and she knew it was where she wanted to be.

“I loved the campus,” she said. “It was just beautiful. Also, it was the perfect size for me for what I was looking for in a school. It felt like home.”

Ricciuti was the first member of the University’s incoming Class of 2025 to deposit to attend the University. Prospective students who would like to join her next fall have until December 1 to apply for Early Decision. The Early Action I deadline is December 15.

Ricciuti says she was impressed by the faculty members she connected with and the state-of-the-art facilities on campus. She says she was also drawn to the University by the faculty to student ratio – both in the dental hygiene program and University-wide.

Currently a senior at in Seymour, Conn., Ricciuti has been a varsity cheerleader all four years. She is involved in a variety of organizations, including the school’s Spanish club, student council, and the National Honor Society. She is looking forward to being an active member of Charger Nation.

“I can’t wait to be a part of not only an amazing academic program, but an amazing community,” she said. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and getting involved in the many on-campus activities.”