For most Kent graduates, commencement marks the beginning of a new chapter beyond the Valley Land. For Ms. Elena Gualtieri, however, that journey eventually led her back to the very community that helped shape her—this time as a Student Dean.

Surprisingly, returning to Kent was never part of her plan. “I had no idea I would end up back here,” Gualtieri said.

After returning to Kent, she found herself working alongside faculty members she had known well as a student, including Mr. Rousseau and Ms. Mazza. Through organizing student activities and assisting with programs connected to the Dean’s Office, she gradually became more involved in student-life work. What began as helping with events eventually expanded into responsibilities involving communication, attendance, and supporting students as they navigate many of the same experiences she once faced herself.

Although her role has changed, some things remain familiar. When asked whether she has ever looked at a student and thought, “That was exactly me when I was at Kent,” she smiled and replied, “A couple of times.”

Those moments remind her that while generations change, many student experiences remain the same. At the same time, she believes one aspect of student life has become significantly more stressful: the college admissions process.

According to Gualtieri, student-athletes today face far greater pressure than previous generations, much of it fueled by social media. Constant exposure to recruiting announcements, commitment posts, and Division I commitments can make students feel as though they are falling behind their peers.

Rather than comparing themselves to what they see online, she encourages students to focus on their own development and trust their individual journeys. “Just go out there and do your thing,” she said.

Returning to campus has also brought back vivid memories from her own student years. One memory that stands out is her Fifth Form year and the traditions that brought the community together. She recalls gatherings with classmates, moments spent with teammates during soccer season, and the excitement surrounding major school events. Those experiences remain some of her strongest memories of Kent.

Now, she experiences those traditions from a different perspective—not as a student participating in them, but as a dean helping create those moments for the next generation.

For Gualtieri, Kent has come full circle. The friendships, traditions, and lessons she gained as a student never truly left her. Instead, they inspired her to return and invest in the community that helped shape her own journey.

For current students, her story serves as a reminder that the experiences they have at Kent may influence their futures in unexpected ways. Sometimes, the path forward can even lead right back home.