I knew entering college I wanted to study special education and when looking at schools, Bridgewater stood out. The education program here is amazing, especially the special education program. There are so many resources.
Several years ago, Fiona Truss, ’28, and a friend had lunch with a group of special education students. It was during that shared meal Fiona discovered what she wanted to do with her life.
She was in the fifth grade.
“I started volunteering, working in clubs that were involved with neurodivergent communities and my passion just grew from there,” Fiona said.
That passion led her to Bridgewater State University, where the Foxboro native is currently enrolled in the BSU Honors program majoring in special education with a concentration in severe disabilities.
“I knew entering college I wanted to study special education and when looking at schools, Bridgewater stood out. The education program here is amazing, especially the special education program. There are so many resources,” Fiona said.
Her goal is to eventually work at the elementary school level as a special education teacher.
“That’s my favorite age. Younger students are just entering school for the first time and gaining levels of independence. It’s fun and exciting for me to see and work in that environment,” Fiona said.
As a BSU undergraduate, she has continued to volunteer her time with various disability programs in her hometown and was recently recognized by the Foxboro Commission on Disability which honored her with the Above and Beyond Individual Award for the work she’s done.
“I know it’s cliché, but it was incredibly humbling to receive this award. I don’t expect that type of recognition. The work I do is something I care about,” Fiona said. “I care about inclusivity…so it’s meaningful to know I am being recognized for that. It helps with my goal of awareness.”
Fiona also received a citation from the state and Sen. Paul Feeney (D-Foxboro) at the award ceremony.
Outside of her academics at Bridgewater, Fiona is also president of the school’s American Sign Language Club and involved with the non-competitive BSU Dance Company.
She is happy with her decision to continue her education at BSU, from the support she receives from professors to the overall climate.
“I’m so happy with my decision to go to Bridgewater, especially the special education classes,” Fiona said. “It’s cool to get to learn something I’m passionate about and helps me achieve my future goals.”
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