# @universityofri on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DJkAiHlzk4g
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/30497243-universityofri-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/24a1052755.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-05-12T17:54:56.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** URI — University of Rhode Island (@universityofri) — https://gondola.cc/universityofri

## Caption

Meet Jennifer Melgar, an elementary education major with minors in psychology and human development and family science, Talent Development scholar, and this year’s student commencement speaker for the Feinstein College of Education. 

A first-generation college graduate from Providence, Rhode Island, Jennifer has spent her time at URI turning her passion for inclusive education into purpose. Jennifer started as a psychology major, but after taking a Psychology of Learning course, her path shifted. “Everything clicked,” she said, realizing she wanted to be in classrooms, creating spaces where "bilingual, multicultural students like me feel seen and supported."

On campus, Jennifer found community and strength through @tdnation68 and @pinkwomenuri. One of her favorite memories is working at the URI Child Development Center, where her classroom lessons came to life through story time, play, and meaningful relationships with children. 

As she prepares to lead her own classroom, Jennifer reflects on how URI helped her grow into a confident, compassionate educator. “I’ve learned that my story, my culture, and my voice are my strengths,” she says. “URI helped me realize I belong in every space I step into—and now, I want to make sure every one of my students feels the same way.”

📸 courtesy of: Jennifer Melgar
#GoRhody #RhodyGrad #RhodyGrads #URI2025 #ClassOf2025

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## Tags

gorhody, classof2025, rhodygrad, uri2025, rhodygrads

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