Search Results

D-F Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click the"Listen" button David H's Story David describes how his autodidact tendencies and lifelong “obsessions” with computers, photography, biking, and astrology have shaped his relationships and sense of connection to others. Listen David's Story, 2023 David talks about his experience with coming out during the 70s and 80s to his parents and how people’s perceptions of what it means to be gay was different then compared to today. He also talks about what it was like to finally be able to marry his partner Todd and what that meant to him. Listen David's Story, 2024 David shares stories of his experience with the start of the pride parade in Northampton, MA. Listen Dennis' Story, Fall 2022 After the Vietnam War and having to put his future plans on pause, Dennis found himself in the city of Boston, not New York, working in education, not pursuing his studies at law school and gaining confidence all along the way. Listen Dennis' Story, Spring 2022 In his story, Dennis Bidwell guides us through his harrowing journey applying for Conscientious Objector (CO) Status during the Vietnam War. Dennis reflect on his coming of age, the culture of the 1960's and 70's, and his experience writing "the most important essay of [his] life" Listen Diane's Story Diane talks about how her goals and ambitions are constantly changing throughout our lives. Diane and Victoria discuss how they have changed throughout lives, and what has remained constant. The common thread for both women is their strong mothers. Listen Djenabou's Story Djenabou talks with Rene about her family. She shares her exceptional relationship that she has with her sister. Listen Doris' Story Listen Eddie's Story Listen Eden's Story In this story, Eden’s generous neighbor teaches her a valuable life lesson. The irony of this significant story is unique as the neighbor has no idea of the impact and life shaping this had on Eden. Listen Edie's Story Edie Kirk shares stories with Elise Boehm about her mother. She starts off by talking about her family’s background and her mother growing up. She then shares a story about how her mother became a nurse and shares other stories that show why she admires her mother so much. Listen Eileen's Story Eileen discusses gender roles present in her childhood in the 1950s and how it caused her to choose her career in teaching. She then goes on to talk about how she was able to be successful in her career choice. Listen Elaine's Story Listen Elise's Story Elise Boehm talks to Edie Kirk about her decision to study abroad in Cuba and what it was like once she got there. She shares stories about where she went and what she did but also how the people there made her feel more confident speaking Spanish. Listen Elsa's Story Elsa reflects on the lasting impact of her grandfather, who was known for his kindness, empathy, and ability to make everyone feel truly seen and valued. Rather than specific memories, what stands out most is how he made people feel and how he carried that warmth into all his relationships. After his passing, Elsa grew to appreciate him even more through shared stories and the community he touched. Inspired by his legacy, she hopes to carry forward his spirit by creating that same sense of belonging and care for others. Listen Emily L's Story Emily discusses how her culture, once embarrassing to her, has helped her shape into the growing and caring person she is today. Listen Emily W's Story Emily W talks to Emily L about how the feminist movement has shaped her growing up and how the culture of women's liberation influenced her ideologies and life. Listen Emily's Story Softball was more than just a game for me. It became an outlet that allowed me to stay connected with my family and form new relationships after my parents’ divorce. It was a thread that held me close to everyone during a time of change. The field became more than just a place to play; it was where I found connection, comfort, and continuity. This story is about family, relationships, and all the moments that happened between innings. Listen Emily's Story Emily recalls taking a major risk in high school by stepping into leadership as theater troupe president and co-directing a competitive one-act play, despite uncertainty and the sacrifice of acting. Over months of creative work and personal challenges, she developed an original production with her peers, ultimately leading the team to a successful performance that won top honors and earned them an individual directing award. Just before advancing further, the competition was canceled due to COVID-19, leaving a sense of loss and disappointment. Despite this, the experience shaped her personal growth and inspired her interest in public health, reinforcing the value of community and taking risks. Listen Emma's Story Interviewed by Linda, Emma discusses the different types of families she grew up with. She reflects on the family she gained throughout her childhood, while also delving into some of the hardships she faced. Emma explains how her family circumstances have truly shaped the person she is today. Listen Francesca's Story Follow Francesca as she shares her spiritual journey as a follower of Saint Francis of Assisi, inspiring her devotion to uplifting others around her while spreading love. Listen Francine's Story In her interview with Carolyn, Francine reflects on her time in Denmark back when she was a junior in college. She looks back fondly at the many memories and life lessons of her host, Frau Nielsen. Fran reflects on how Frau Nielsen changed her young mind’s conception of what it means to be old. Listen Freeman's Story Freeman remarks on his decision to retire and how retiring has allowed him to grow as a person and start new things after his career. He later elaborates on the ultimate goals and appreciations he has for his life and his message for others when considering the path of their own life: “think of the long ride, not the short journey.” Listen

V-Z Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click "Listen" button Vicki's Story Vicki talks about how her parent's decision to move from Long Island to Western Massachusetts when she was a senior in high school and how it impacted her life and her future trajectory. Listen Wayne's Story Wayne reflects on his 50‑year friendship with Jim Wilcox, a mentor and dear friend whose discipline, love of learning, and interest in play deeply impacted his life. Listen Wendy's Story Listen Yaliah's Story Listen Zara's Story Zara reflects on the transformative impact of her EMT program supervisor, who served as a mentor during a challenging summer of hands-on clinical training. Despite her initial self-doubt, exhaustion, and imposter syndrome, her supervisor provided persistent encouragement, teaching through direct experience and fostering confidence. She emphasizes that her mentor showed her that success in medicine comes not just from quick learning, but from humility, dedication, and genuine care for others. This experience highlighted the importance of mentorship in helping individuals grow, develop self-awareness, and build both professional and personal confidence. Listen

J-L Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click "Listen" button Jack's Story Jack reflects on his transition from high school to college and how this shaped his understanding of friendships, self-worth, and belonging. From not fitting into a rugby team and struggling to find genuine people around him, a wake-up call and a new friend led him to understand his self-worth, connect back with a true friend, and carry those lessons along with him, this time with good people around him. Listen Jacqueline's Story Jacqueline talks about the most important person in her life; her mom. She describes her perseverance, strength, and love for both her mother and her brother. Listen Jake's Story Jake reflects on two similar scenarios he has encountered with bees and how that has made him realize the power of one’s own mindset when it comes to handling situations differently. He talks about how he keeps a positive mindset which has translated into looking at things in a more gratifying way and spreading positivity in other aspects of his life. Listen Janet's Story Janet gives voice to her late older brother Jay and recalls the significant impact he has had on her early life and professional career despite struggling in his adolescence and growing up in a time where it was unlawful to be self assured about your homosexuality. This is a story about love and loss but touching upon hope in freedom of self expression in culture today. Listen Janice H's Story Janice tells a story about a memorable photograph she took while visiting a village in Liberia, Africa. The story is a snapshot of the Liberian bush in 1972. Listen Janice's Story In this story, Janice explains her life long connection to animals and how her experiences working with animals have become her most fulfilling achievements. Listen Jenna's Story Listen Jesse's Story, 2021 Jesse shares a story with Kelly about his trip to Bhutan and the lessons helearned from his Buddhist practice. Listen Jesse's Story, 2022 Jesse talks with Lauren about being wrongfully accused and sent to prison. He shares the lessons he learned during that difficult time. Listen Jessica's Story Listen Jessie's Story Jessie’s visit to an Ashram for her friend turned out to be a life-changing experience. She had witnessed what she described as golden filaments of light connecting people in a garden, which, when she came back home, made her feel alive, and she found herself drawn toward this community for several years. While still being a little skeptical, she learned to try and approach the most painful moments of life with love, which shifted her attitude, and she gives credit to this, making her a happier individual. Around this time, another eventful program, she experienced, Al-Anon, which is a twelve-step program which is for families of those struggling with alcohol addiction, which was the case with her then husband. This pushed her to untangle herself from codependency and understand herself for the first time. These two experiences together taught her essential lessons about letting things go that aren’t in her control and focusing on present things with good energy is what lightens the weight of being yourself. Listen Jim's Story This story is about Jim and his father going on a fishing trip where they catch the elusive Black Marlin. Though the bond of their relationship had been frayed, their fishing adventure forged an understanding that would leave Jim changed forever. Listen JoAnn's Story Listen Joan A's Story Listen to Joan as she talks about her Auntie Delly and the role her Aunt played in shaping Joan's life in the past and the present. Listen Joan O's Story Joan shares the story of adopting her daughter from Russia. She talks about what adoption is like and some of the struggles that come with adoption. Listen Joe's Story Listen Jonathan Dee's Story Jonathan shares his special connection with his family and how they have been a major influence in his life, from his brothers to his mom and dad. He touches upon his love for his parents supporting him through sports and making sure he was reaching his fullest potential growing up. With deep gratitude for his mother and everything she had overcome in her early life, he expresses the kind of person and a great appreciation of who she is. Listen Jonathan's Story, 2021 Jonathan talks with Julia about the importance of his family network during the pandemic. Likewise, he is thankful for social media and zoom technology because it enabled him to stay in touch with his family. Listen Jonathan's Story, 2022 Jonathan Daube (Northampton, MA) speaks with Selena DeCosta (Easton/Amherst, MA) about his time spent teaching in Malawi and how it shaped his view of the world for the rest of his life. Listen Jonathan's Story, 2024 Listen Josh's Story Josh shares his dedication and identity to football at college and wanting to succeed in his athletic career, only to realize that it was taking him away from his academics. When Covid hit, which was brought with a year spent at home, he decided to change his focus from football towards his studies on Public Health. Leaving your past self may be hard, but it’s the sacrifice to limitless possibilities. Listen Judy's Story Jessica interviews Judy about her relationship with her mother, delving into Judy's past through letters exchanged between them from childhood to adulthood. As Judy revisits these correspondences, she navigates the highs and lows of their relationship, exploring the deep bond between mother and daughter. Listen Juli's Story Juli speaks with Jacqueline about her time at summer camp as a kid. At this camp, Juli met someone who didn’t fit in. But Juli learned how a little kindness could go a long way. Listen Julia's Story Julia reflects on what her life might look like in sixty years. She explains her values and emphasis on how she strives to be someone her family and others can lean on. Listen Kaela's Story Kaela expresses how running has been a fundamental part of her life since she was younger but has really unfolded for her as she was in high school and college to something she really loves to do. Over the years, her relationship with running and the community she has formed with it has grown into something that holds a special place for her to continue wherever she ends up in the future. Listen Karen's Story Karen reflects on her Jewish heritage and brings it together, identifying family history and identity through fragments. Listen Katerina's Story Katerina’s reflection on how repeated experiences with her father’s and uncles’ cancer shaped her relationship with guilt, grief, and appreciating life. Listen Katherine's Story Katherine talks about her family heritage and values and how that impacted her views on the world. She discusses how her upbringing and playing music with her siblings brings them closer together. Katherine also details how the values that she was raised with are still instilled in her and are instilled in her children as well. Listen Kathleen Becker's Story Kathleen describes her path to becoming a speech pathologist. She describes her experience growing up with her younger sister Margaret Mary who was born with cerebral palsy. As a child she tried to find ways to help her sister learn to speak. Later, she took her first speech pathology course in college, and went on to work in a private practice and at an elementary school. Listen Kathleen Bowen's Story Kathleen talks about changes and how her perspective of age and learning has changed over time through her own experience with getting older. Listen Kathleen's Story Listen Kathryn's Story Listen Kathy's Story Kathy reflects on her journey to becoming a nurse practitioner, shaped by early aspirations to be a doctor and barriers such as her father’s belief that higher education wasn’t necessary for girls. Despite challenges, she pursued nursing, continued her education, and eventually entered a nurse practitioner program with encouragement from mentors. Her career focused on working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, where she found purpose in serving marginalized populations and navigating the complexities of real-world care. Looking back, she feels deeply fulfilled and proud of her path, valuing both the impact of her work and the personal growth it brought. Listen Katie's Story Katie reflects on several influential “teachers,” including authors, spiritual leaders, and educators, who shaped her personal growth. Inspired by ideas like living in the present moment, mindfulness, and self-compassion, she learned to better support herself emotionally and break patterns from her upbringing. She also gained insight into communication, particularly the importance of understanding underlying human needs beneath emotions. Overall, these influences have helped her grow, improve relationships, and approach life with greater awareness and purpose. Listen Kelly's Story Kelly talks with Jesse about her evolving family dynamics during the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen Laura's Story In this story, Laura reflects on her connection to modern dance and how it has followed her throughout her life. Listen Leslie's Story In this clip, Leslie shares her passion for improving the quality of life for people with disabilities with a specific focus on young children and families. Listen Lexie's Story Listen Liam's Story Liam talks about a scene in the movie Tampopo and discusses the differences in how people consume media and how media can be interpreted differently depending on the viewer. Listen Linda's Story Linda discusses the various relationships with people she calls family. Some are blood-related, while others are connected through the deep bonds she has built over time. She explores the uniqueness of her familial circumstances and reflects on how these relationships have impacted not only the love she has experienced over the years, but also how these experiences and connections have shaped her into the person she is today. Listen Linda's Story Listen Liya's Story Liya Liang speaks with Nina Kleinberg about her experiences attending a preparatory boarding school and leaving all she knew behind. The two discuss the effects that it had on her life reflecting on the aspects of race, class, and socioeconomic status had on her experience during her four years. Listen Lizzy's Story Lizzy reflects on her journey from hating school as a child due to struggles with confusing curriculum changes and being doubted by educators to gradually finding her footing academically. After being told college might not be the right path, she used that doubt as motivation to prove her capabilities. Although her first semester in college was challenging, discovering public health (specifically epidemiology) transformed her perspective and made learning enjoyable. Now accepted into a master’s program in epidemiology, she feels proud of how far she’s come and how she turned skepticism into success. Listen Luke's Story Luke shares a story about his uncle Peter who is a Carthuegen Monk in Slovenia. He talks about his personal relationship with Peter and how Peter inspires him in his own life. Listen Lynn's Story Listen

Fall 2022 Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click the "Listen" button. Saddaf's Story Saddaf talks about the role religion played in her life growing up and now, discovering it for herself, she talks about how she struggles with it in college. She touches upon navigating two identities being a first-generation Pakistani Muslim American. Listen Eileen's Story Eileen discusses gender roles present in her childhood in the 1950s and how it caused her to choose her career in teaching. She then goes on to talk about how she was able to be successful in her career choice. Listen Brenda's Story Brenda talks about her experience being a daughter to Brazilian immigrants and first generation college student. Brenda describes the transformation in her perspective from once desperately wanting to fit in to typical American standards, to now embracing her Brazilian roots and culture. Listen Betsy's Story Betsy talks with Brenda about a spontaneous trip that changed her life. She talks about her wonderful experiences and a noteworthy figure that she meets on this trip. Returning from her trip, she decides to pull inspiration from her time away when opening a small store in Northampton. Listen Jesse's Story Jesse talks with Lauren about being wrongfully accused and sent to prison. He shares the lessons he learned during that difficult time. Listen Caroline's Story Story Coming Soon! Listen Pat's Story Pat speaks about her journey in Little Falls, Minnesota. Here, she went on a profound healing journey and learned the power of forgiveness. While in Little Falls she met a special friend who showed her what she had been longing for. Listen Dennis' Story After the Vietnam War and having to put his future plans on pause, Dennis found himself in the city of Boston, not New York, working in education, not pursuing his studies at law school and gaining confidence all along the way. Listen Naomi's Story Naomi talks about her experiences growing up and about how these experiences shaped her approach to parenting and helped her understand what she truly values in her relationships. Listen Taylor's Story Taylor talks about transitioning into UMass as a transfer student and finding her passion for Public Health. She found that public health captures all the things she loves including caring for others. Listen Rachel's Story Rachel discusses feeling like she didn’t belong in her hometown community or as she transitioned to college.She talks about her social anxiety and reflects on what it was like to break free from this. She wants people to pay attention to college students’ mental health. Listen Djenabou's Story Djenabou talks with Rene about her family. She shares her exceptional relationship that she has with her sister. Listen Raluca's Story Raluca’s family immigrated to America when she was 6 years old. At first, she didn’t fully understand or appreciate her family background or Romanian culture. Most of all, she disliked her name and wanted nothing more but to change it one day. She grew up embarrassed about who she was–but after going back to her country for the first time again at 16 years old, everything changed. Listen Stefanie's Story Stefanie discusses how COVID-19 affected her college experience as a student athlete. As well as the impact that quarantine had on her social life as an incoming college student. Listen Owen's Story Owen discusses how he went to college during the Vietnam War and what he learned from not only the education and the professors but also the people he attended the university with. Listen Charlie's Story Charlie recounts his rich experience traveling the world, and what he has learned from a lifetime of travel. He discusses the importance of how traveling helps us experience and help better understand other cultures, and how the individuals of these cultures shape his experiences. Listen Rene's Story Rene explains how she feels being the eldest sister of her siblings. She talks through how an experience with her brother brought their relationship together. Listen Jacqueline's Story Jacqueline talks about the most important person in her life; her mom. She describes her perseverance, strength, and love for both her and her brother. Listen Tony's Story Tony reflects on his working relationship with the reknowned American storyteller Studs Terkel. Studs was best known for his oral history books, in which he interviewed ordinary people about their lives and experiences. Tony worked closely with Studs and provides great insight on how important their work was. Everybody has a story to tell- Tony and Studs were instrumental in documenting these stories for decades. Listen Vicki's Story Vicki talks about how her parent's decision to move from Long Island to Western Massachusetts when she was a senior in high school and how it impacted her life and her future trajectory. Listen Robert's Story Robert talks to Honor about his experiences living in a commune and how it saved him from serving in the Vietnam war. He explains how his faith and trust in a higher power guided him to conquer this fear, and continues to support him to this day. Listen Miriam's Story Miriam describes her experience studying the Hutterite community. She reflects on their sense of community and how it has been shown in her own life. Listen Joan's Story Joan shares the story of adopting her daughter from Russia. She talks about what adoption is like and some of the struggles that come with adoption. Listen Luke's Story Luke shares a story about his uncle Peter who is a Carthuegen Monk in Slovenia. He talks about his personal relationship with Peter and how Peter inspires him in his own life. Listen Chad's Story Chad discusses his struggles in elementary school with learning disabilities and how it led him to the development of Sudbury Valley Schools and to the career path of community development. Chad talks about how important being a part of a community is, and how important it is to feel heard and respected in a group. Listen Bert's Story Bert speaks about her life journey and how not everything went as she planned. She talks about her adventures with her husband and kids and how she found her way to her career as a Speech Language Pathologist and how that career changed her view on life. Listen Talia's Story Talia talks to Charlie about her experience of studying abroad in Florence, Italy. She speaks about how she chose Florence as her host city. She tells us how studying abroad in Florence changed her and furthered her desire to travel the world. Listen Juli's Story Juli speaks with Jacqueline about her time at summer camp as a kid. At this camp, Juli met someone who didn’t fit in. But Juli learned how a little kindness could go a long way. Listen Ali's Story Ali speaks to Joan about her journey of being adopted. She talks about her mom and her sister and how they became a family. She speaks on how knowing a brief background of her biological family gives her some comfort. Listen Sharon's Story Sharon shares about the influence that her hardworking, loving grandmother had on her and how this influence guided her to be the person she is today. Listen Abby's Story Abby talks about her adventures while traveling. She talks about her experience studying abroad and traveling as a young kid and how that shaped her into the person she is. Listen

P-R Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click on "Listen" button Pam's Story Listen Pat's Story Pat speaks about her journey in Little Falls, Minnesota. Here, she went on a profound healing journey and learned the power of forgiveness. While in Little Falls she met a special friend who showed her what she had been longing for. Listen Peter's Story Listen Peter's Story, 2025 Peter reflects on how one impulsive choice in college spiraled into long‑lasting anxiety and phobias, but also made him realize how his experiences can help guide others. Listen Rachel's Story Rachel discusses feeling like she didn’t belong in her hometown community or as she transitioned to college.She talks about her social anxiety and reflects on what it was like to break free from this. She wants people to pay attention to college students’ mental health. Listen Rachel's Story Rachel describes how she started college being isolated, sick, and restricted during the pandemic, and how this ultimately led her to a community she’s now grateful for. Listen Ralph's Story, 2024 When asked the difficult question of "How would you like to be remembered?" Ralph Lowen discusses the importance of love and his daughter and grandson. Listen Ralph's Story, 2025 Ralph reflects on how his understanding of “home” evolved from a physical house to something much deeper and more expansive. While his house feels like home through safety, creativity, and memories, he realize that home is also found in meaningful human connections, whether on a subway, in a restaurant abroad, or within a close-knit community. Through these experiences, he came to see home as something he carry within himself, shaped by relationships, kindness, and shared moments. Ultimately, home is not a single place, but a feeling rooted in connection and belonging. Listen Raluca's Story Raluca’s family immigrated to America when she was 6 years old. At first, she didn’t fully understand or appreciate her family background or Romanian culture. Most of all, she disliked her name and wanted nothing more but to change it one day. She grew up embarrassed about who she was–but after going back to her country for the first time again at 16 years old, everything changed. Listen Raphaella's Story Raphaella encountered her science teacher, who had doubted her ability to handle honors courses. Her English teacher Miss Young though, supported her, and in the right moment as well, giving her the affirmation that she was capable of being able to take honors courses and signing off on the honors english course. This action allowed her to excel in these courses and give her confidence back within her potential. Listen Ray's Story In this clip, Ray discusses his journey to a love of theater and acting. Acting has taught him a great deal about life, and is a critical part of his identity. Listen Rebecca's Story Rebecca discusses the lasting influence of joining Science Olympiad in middle school on her relationships, as well as the way that it has shaped her goals and life to this day. Listen Rebekah's Story Listen Rene's Story Rene explains how she feels being the eldest sister of her siblings. She talks through how an experience with her brother brought their relationship together. Listen Rick's Story Rick talks about his parents and how they were his lighthouses growing up. Specifically, he focuses on how a moment with his father in the hospital has guided his view on the meaning of life. Listen Rob's Story Listen Robert's Story, 2022 Robert talks to Honor about his experiences living in a commune and how it saved him from serving in the Vietnam war. He explains how his faith and trust in a higher power guided him to conquer this fear, and continues to support him to this day. Listen Robert's Story, 2024 Listen Ryann's Story, Spring 2025 Ryann shares how her early love for dance was overshadowed by a highly competitive studio environment where favoritism and pressure made her feel inadequate and disconnected from her passion. Over time, this experience diminished her confidence and enjoyment, leading her to step away from dance after high school. However, upon joining a more supportive and inclusive dance program in college, a teacher helped her rediscover her confidence and love for dance. This renewed encouragement allowed her to see her potential and inspired her to pursue dance more seriously as a future career. Listen

M-O Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click "Listen" button MJ's Story In this interview, Mary Jo discusses her experience with assistive technology like a cochlear impact and electronic captioning. She describes her journey and how sudden hearing loss has influenced her as an individual, her relationships and her outlook on life. She leaves us with a powerful message about the importance of advocating for ourselves and others. Listen Makeda's Story Listen Marci's Story Dr. Marci Yoss talks to her new friend Camille Beckett (21) about her family, profession, and loneliness. Marci delves into the importance of her husband and children within her life, discusses how the medical field as positively impacted her, and how loneliness had changed as a concept in her life as she has aged. Listen Marcia's Story Marcia explains how the simple act of being friendly and saying hi dramatically changed her world and formed life long relationships in the summer of 1968. Listen Marisa's Story Marisa shares how her mother’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent passing profoundly influenced her life and career aspirations. Witnessing her strength and the care provided by nurses inspired her to pursue nursing, initially through fundraising and advocacy, then by formally studying healthcare. Though faced with challenges in transferring and entering a nursing program, Marisa used the opportunity to study kinesiology and public health, gaining foundational skills for her future practice. Now preparing to enter an accelerated nursing program, she is committed to providing compassionate care in honor of her mother’s legacy. Listen Mary Ann's Story Mary Ann recounts her childhood growing up in rural Connecticut and goes on to share the powerful act of kindness her paternal grandfather did for her which was teaching her to drive. She expresses how this act impacted her confidence and gave her a new sense of freedom. Listen Mary Ann's Story, Fall 2025 Mary Ann reflects on a life shaped by early loss and resilience, following the sudden death of her father, which forced her family to quickly adapt and develop survival skills. A pivotal moment came when her future husband encouraged her to pursue a long-held but unimagined dream of becoming a doctor. Today, she looks back on a rich, unexpected life filled with family, professional accomplishments, and personal fulfillment, appreciating the support and opportunities that helped shape her journey. Listen Mary Ann's Story, Spring 2025 Listen Mary Young's Story Mary Young describes, in an interview with Hellen Muma, the cast-off treasures she discovered as a kid—and how those experiences turned her into a life-long collector. She shares a lesson learned from Louis Armstrong’s white handkerchief and remembers a great-aunt who influenced her with the gift of a corrugated gift box. Listen Mary's Story Mary, motivated by her retirement and the loss of her husband's sister, decided to run a breast cancer marathon in Jacksonville, Florida, which was something she’d never done before. She trained in Antigua, and when her race day approached, her husband warmly rallied up her nieces, daughter, and grandchildren to cheer her on with signs and bells, which gave her the final push to be able to push through to the finish line. She felt an intense sense of pride and joy crossing it, and it made the whole moment even more memorable and sweet, having her whole family beside her to celebrate. As she’s now approaching her 80s, she has sight of winning her age group in the half-marathon and running a 10k alongside her granddaughter. Listen MaryBeth's Story Marybeth tells the story about her first time being intimate with her partner while attending college. She goes on to explain the journey of her pregnancy and reconnecting with her daughter years later. Listen Marylou's Story Marylou Davis (76) talks with her granddaughter, Abigail Horan (21) about the pivotal moments in her life which sculpted the path to the life she has today. In the interview, Marylou discusses how moving from Florida back to Massachusetts where she originally lived was a tough decision, but ultimately worked out in the end because of the relationships she fostered once arriving back. Listen McKenna's Story McKenna describes her love of gymnastics in this story. The lessons it taught her and the people she met along the way are invaluable to her, and she will carry these lessons with her throughout the rest of her life. Listen Megan's Story Megan (20) tells a story about the most important person in her life, her grandfather “Poppy”. She talks about a road trip to his log cabin in Vermont, the many stops on the way, and their special relationship. Listen Megan's Story Megan shares how her bond with her younger sister has helped her through growing up with social anxiety, helping her feel understood in ways no one else ever has. Listen Meredith's Story Listen Meredith's Story, 2025 Listen Miriam's Story Miriam describes her experience studying the Hutterite community. She reflects on their sense of community and how it has been shown in her own life. Listen Moeen's Story Listen Molly's Story Molly shares her unique journey through motherhood, detailing her experiences with her wife and their two adopted children. She describes her travels around the world and her struggles with infertility, which ultimately led to the beautiful story of adopting her two children. Molly reflects on how her children grew up in Boston and thrived right before her eyes. Listen Molly's Story Listen Morgan's Story Morgan describes how the pandemic disrupted her Junior year of high school, but ultimately led her to new friendships, a major she loves, and a path towards a future in medicine inspired by her mom. Listen Nancy J's Story Listen Nancy's Story After our mother died suddenly (due to complications of a childhood disease), our introverted father stepped in to raise three daughters (ages 14, 11, and 7) in the New Jersey suburbs. He was at work in Manhattan all day, but he ran a tight ship from afar. His steadfast devotion to us and his love of Broadway shows, the Great American Songbook, and American literature continues to supply me with uplifting lyrics, music, and other cultural touchstones. Listen Naomi's Story Naomi talks about her experiences growing up and about how these experiences shaped her approach to parenting and helped her understand what she truly values in her relationships. Listen Natalie's Story Listen Ngozi's Story Ngozi Okeke talks to Tamar Shadur about traveling to Nigeria, dad's special pancakes, and how she would like to be remembered. Listen Nikki's Story Nikki describes her travels to Manzanillo Cuba where she and her fellow volunteers created and conducted a Kids Camp for the children of Manzanillo and its surrounding villages. She expresses the importance of perspective taking, treating others with compassion and understanding the true impact one seemingly small act can have on the lives of others. Listen Nina's Story Nina Kleinberg tells Liya Liang the story about the moment she decided to leave her home and STEM education to pursue an education and career in film on the other side of the country Listen Nina's Story Nina describes how being diagnosed with ADHD as a child led to academic struggles and rejection, but pushing through those setbacks helped her become resilient and confident in the person she’s become. Listen Noleen's Story Noleen describes her and her family’s migration from Ghana to the U.S., navigating constant transitions before finally settling in Massachusetts. Listen Norma's Story Norma talks about how she found herself in the later stages of life identifying with something new- being an athlete. She talks about the skills she has acquired through this sport apply on the water and in her personal life as well. Listen to Norma’s journey to discovering one of her new passions of whitewater kayaking. Listen Obi's Story Obi discusses the influence of one teacher in his life, and how that teacher influenced not only his future career goals, but also his work ethic. Listen Olivia's Story Listen to hear Olivia share her experience taking a gap year after highschool and traveling overseas with a program called ARCC Gap Year. Listen Owen's Story, 2022 Owen discusses how he went to college during the Vietnam War and what he learned from not only the education and the professors but also the people he attended the university with. Listen Owen's Story, 2024 Listen Owen's Story, 2025 Owen describes how becoming a single parent forced him to confront complex feelings of frustration towards his son, and how overcoming these feelings led to their strong friendship today. Listen Owen's Story, 2025 Owen reflects on the things he’d tell his younger self, emphasizing how life doesn’t always go as planned. Highlighting that family is important, staying open to the unknown, and keeping a positive perspective during difficult times. He shares his own experience with marriage, parenthood, and how even those struggles led him to have a deep and close friendship with his son. Listen

S-U Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click "Listen" button Saddaf's Story Saddaf talks about the role religion played in her life growing up and now, discovering it for herself, she talks about how she struggles with it in college. She touches upon navigating two identities being a first-generation Pakistani Muslim American. Listen Sally's Story This is the story of Sally's grandmother, a woman who continues to inspire her every day. She has played a vital role in Sally's life, raising her with care, guiding her path, and shaping who she is. Her unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and strength deserve to be recognized. Through her passion and perseverance, she has become not only a role model to Sally, but a symbol of selfless love and resilience. Listen Sally's Story Sally talks with Mia about her role in creating the first public library in the township where she lived and the impact it has had on her life. "Libraries always remind me that there are good things in this world." - Lauren Ward Listen Sam's Story In this story, Sam discusses her passion for women's health through her own life experiences. Sam's college experience has allowed her to surround herself with groups of people who lift up and support one another. Listen Samantha's Story Samantha talks about her childhood and her appreciation for her Jewish heritage and her understanding of her family history and how it shaped her experiences through life and helped her to face her toughest challenges. Listen Sanjana's Story Sanjana discusses her relationship with her mother and how it has changed over time. She talks about her upbringing in an immigrant family, and how understanding those circumstances helped her understand her mother’s lived experiences, bringing them infinitely closer. Listen Sarah's Story Listen Sasha's Story Sasha talks about her relationship with her Aunt and how she inspired her to be strong, powerful, and resilient and to appreciate the values that they share. Listen Savannah's Story Savannah speaks with Dennis about her experience living and working in Washington, DC the summer after her freshman year of college. Savannah discusses her determination to experience somewhere new, and how she was able to make it happen for herself. In her story, she touches on themes of loneliness, independence, family and friendship. Savannah reminds us that while independence is a virtue, we can all use some support to get where we're going. Listen Sean's Story Sean talks to his match about the differences between them and their values caused by the differences in their cultures and generations. He also discusses the impact of American values and how media and modern technology play a role in individualism. Listen Selena's Story Selena speaks with Jonathan about what it’s like to be living with a family whose views are very different from your own during a global pandemic. Listen Sharon's Story Sharon shares about the influence that her hardworking, loving grandmother had on her and how this influence guided her to be the person she is today. Listen Sofie's Story Sofie talks about her experience being diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 12 and how it affected her and her family. She discusses how it inspired her to pursue her future career and the importance of empathy in the medical field. Listen Sophia's Story Sophia reflects on her difficult high school experience after transferring schools, which led to isolation, academic struggles, and severe depression. Over time, this culminated in a crisis during junior year, but support from counselors, teachers, and an alternative program director helped her begin to recover. Through patience, understanding, and gradual progress, she regained hope and was able to successfully graduate on time. Ultimately, the experience taught her the importance of accepting support from others and recognizing her own resilience. Listen Sophy's Story, Fall 2025 Sophy recalls a dramatic encounter with a ghost in her Brooklyn apartment that left a lasting impact on her life. Listen Sophy's Story, Spring 2025 Listen Stan's Story Stan reflects on his joining of the Peace Corps, avoiding being drafted into the Vietnam War, and ending up in Brazil. He taught English to anglophones as well, which later he built a little career path from, as called, the” Plant doctor” with a radio show. Reflecting on building connections, he reflected on the spontaneous connections he made and how he socialized. He also feels now that the younger generation has lost their ability to connect properly face to face due to phones and computers. Listen Stefanie's Story Stefanie discusses how COVID-19 affected her college experience as a student athlete. As well as the impact that quarantine had on her social life as an incoming college student. Listen Stephanie's Story In this story, Stephanie discusses one of her professors. Even if they didn’t always see eye-to-eye, Stephanie greatly valued their presence in her life, as well as their advice. Their mentorship will stay with her throughout her life. Listen Stephanie's Story Listen Sunny's Story Sunny shares a story about how her relationship with the fine arts has developed and strengthened over the course of her life. She has a passion for art that follows her everywhere. Listen Susan's Story Susan Martins (77) talks with a friend, Catherine Grella (21) about her travels to Italy and Israel in her early 20s, which she considers the highlight of her entire life. Listen Susy's Story, 2021 Susy’s adventurous, independent lifestyle quickly transitioned into a nurturing one when she found herself longing for a baby. After adopting her son from Peru, she instantly knew she had made the right choice. Listen Susy's Story, 2022 Susy talks about her want for a child and how it led her to her experience with international adoption in Peru as a single woman. She discussed the impact of negative cultural views on adoption and how it impacted her experience as a parent. She then discusses the importance of belonging and the need for people to share their stories. Listen Sydney's Story Sydney talks about how years of transferring soccer teams, feeling excluded, and losing confidence shaped her anxiety, and how she’s now working to rebuild her sense of self in college. Listen Talia's Story Talia talks to Charlie about her experience of studying abroad in Florence, Italy. She speaks about how she chose Florence as her host city. She tells us how studying abroad in Florence changed her and furthered her desire to travel the world. Listen Tamar's Story Tamar Shadur talks to Ngozi Okeke about how she would like to be remembered through the different ways in which she lived her life. She discusses her artistic passion for tapestry weaving and how it became a lifelong career. She was able to emphasize the different themes that have come out in her work and how she and her Mother have worked together to produce meaningful pieces. Listen Taylor's Story Taylor talks about transitioning into UMass as a transfer student and finding her passion for Public Health. She found that public health captures all the things she loves including caring for others. Listen Taylor's Story, Spring 2024 Listen Terry's Story Listen Tony's Story Tony reflects on his working relationship with the reknowned American storyteller Studs Terkel. Studs was best known for his oral history books, in which he interviewed ordinary people about their lives and experiences. Tony worked closely with Studs and provides great insight on how important their work was. Everybody has a story to tell- Tony and Studs were instrumental in documenting these stories for decades. Listen Travis' Story Listen

G-I Stories If you'd like to listen to a story, click the "Listen" button Gail's Story, 2022 Gail, an elementary school teacher, talks about how her sister impacted her life and encouraged her to advocate for children with disabilities in her classroom and beyond. Listen Gail's Story, 2023 Listen Gail's Story, 2024 Allie and Gail discuss Gail’s early childhood years and her struggle with loneliness and isolation, due to how people viewed her because her sister was Autistic. Gail discusses as she grew up how she experienced loneliness, how she advocated for autism in her teaching career, and how she overcame isolation. Listen Grazy's Story Grazy discusses how her family's immigration to the United States impacted her upbringing and her values and experiences in the U.S. Listen Hannah's Story Hannah talks about the risk that she took in studying abroad in Amsterdam and her experience amercing herself in the culture by herself and how it impacted her future career path. Listen Heidi's Story Kathy reflects on her journey to becoming a nurse practitioner, shaped by early aspirations to be a doctor and barriers such as her father’s belief that higher education wasn’t necessary for girls. Despite challenges, she pursued nursing, continued her education, and eventually entered a nurse practitioner program with encouragement from mentors. Her career focused on working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, where she found purpose in serving marginalized populations and navigating the complexities of real-world care. Looking back, she feels deeply fulfilled and proud of her path, valuing both the impact of her work and the personal growth it brought. Listen Hellen's Story Hellen describes the way her house represents Africa from the mustard-yellow color on the outside to the smell on the inside and the white lace sheets over the doors. Her parents incorporate many pieces of Kenya with them in their home in the US, and continue many traditions from their past. Listen Hengie's Story Hengie expresses the hardships her and her family faced growing up in Haiti and how her mother was a pillar to the close bond that her, her brother, and mother currently share. While battling the difficulties of growing up apart, Hengie describes her wishes for her family and their journey back to each other, establishing a strong foundation built on resilience, love, and unwavering determination, ultimately leading them back to the embrace of a cherished home. Listen Holly's Story Listen Imani's Story Listen Ivana's Story Ivana shares a vulnerable story about her battle with anxiety and depression as a young adult in high school. She talks about how her experiences have influenced who she is today and memorializes this struggle with a tattoo on her back. Listen

Tell Me A Story: Building Connection Across Generations A Project of University of Massachusetts Public Health Sciences Program and Northampton Neighbors Everyone has a story to share... Public Health students at UMass Amherst paired up with Northampton Neighbors for this storytelling project. We hope you enjoy their stories. Click on the names below to hear their stories. To view more stories, click the tabs in the menu above. You can see stories told by each cohort of students & Neighbors. To listen to the full interviews, click here! New Stories! Ryann's Story Ryann shares how her early love for dance was overshadowed by a highly competitive studio environment where favoritism and pressure made her feel inadequate and disconnected from her passion. Over time, this experience diminished her confidence and enjoyment, leading her to step away from dance after high school. However, upon joining a more supportive and inclusive dance program in college, a teacher helped her rediscover her confidence and love for dance. This renewed encouragement allowed her to see her potential and inspired her to pursue dance more seriously as a future career. Listen Bob's Story Bob discovered a love for education and the performing arts in high school, but took a long detour in life, even considering a career in construction at age 45. A chance encounter with a friend introduced him to the idea of creating an arts school, which aligned perfectly with his lifelong passion. Over 15 years, he built and led the school, which continues to thrive and produce successful graduates. His story emphasizes the importance of staying open to unexpected opportunities and following your true passions. Listen Sally's Story This is the story of Sally's grandmother, a woman who continues to inspire her every day. She has played a vital role in Sally's life, raising her with care, guiding her path, and shaping who she is. Her unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and strength deserve to be recognized. Through her passion and perseverance, she has become not only a role model to Sally, but a symbol of selfless love and resilience. Listen Mary Ann's Story Mary Ann reflects on a life shaped by early loss and resilience, following the sudden death of her father, which forced her family to quickly adapt and develop survival skills. A pivotal moment came when her future husband encouraged her to pursue a long-held but unimagined dream of becoming a doctor. Today, she looks back on a rich, unexpected life filled with family, professional accomplishments, and personal fulfillment, appreciating the support and opportunities that helped shape her journey. Listen Marisa's Story Marisa shares how her mother’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent passing profoundly influenced her life and career aspirations. Witnessing her strength and the care provided by nurses inspired her to pursue nursing, initially through fundraising and advocacy, then by formally studying healthcare. Though faced with challenges in transferring and entering a nursing program, Marisa used the opportunity to study kinesiology and public health, gaining foundational skills for her future practice. Now preparing to enter an accelerated nursing program, she is committed to providing compassionate care in honor of her mother’s legacy. Listen Ralph's Story Ralph reflects on how his understanding of “home” evolved from a physical house to something much deeper and more expansive. While his house feels like home through safety, creativity, and memories, he realize that home is also found in meaningful human connections, whether on a subway, in a restaurant abroad, or within a close-knit community. Through these experiences, he came to see home as something he carry within himself, shaped by relationships, kindness, and shared moments. Ultimately, home is not a single place, but a feeling rooted in connection and belonging. Listen Amelia's Story Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the end of high school, she felt like it held her back for a long time. She pushed herself, though, to run for the first time and hit four miles. Mentally, things shifted, and she realized that diabetes doesn’t have to hold her back. She joined her college’s running club, found her close friend there, who was also her training partner. They completed the Vermont City Marathon together, which was the hardest thing she’s ever had to do physically. In the end though, when she crossed that finish line, she cried tears of happiness with her family by her side, and that moment when she gave her mom a big hug and gave her dad a big hug meant everything to her. Listen David H's Story David describes how his autodidact tendencies and lifelong “obsessions” with computers, photography, biking, and astrology have shaped his relationships and sense of connection to others. Listen Sophy's Story Sophy recalls a dramatic encounter with a ghost in her Brooklyn apartment that left a lasting impact on her life. Listen Elsa's Story Elsa reflects on the lasting impact of her grandfather, who was known for his kindness, empathy, and ability to make everyone feel truly seen and valued. Rather than specific memories, what stands out most is how he made people feel and how he carried that warmth into all his relationships. After his passing, Elsa grew to appreciate him even more through shared stories and the community he touched. Inspired by his legacy, she hopes to carry forward his spirit by creating that same sense of belonging and care for others. Listen Owen's Story Owen describes how becoming a single parent forced him to confront complex feelings of frustration towards his son, and how overcoming these feelings led to their strong friendship today. Listen Emma's Story Interviewed by Linda, Emma discusses the different types of families she grew up with. She reflects on the family she gained throughout her childhood, while also delving into some of the hardships she faced. Emma explains how her family circumstances have truly shaped the person she is today. Listen

< Back Elsa's Story Elsa reflects on the lasting impact of her grandfather, who was known for his kindness, empathy, and ability to make everyone feel truly seen and valued. Rather than specific memories, what stands out most is how he made people feel and how he carried that warmth into all his relationships. After his passing, Elsa grew to appreciate him even more through shared stories and the community he touched. Inspired by his legacy, she hopes to carry forward his spirit by creating that same sense of belonging and care for others. 00:00 / 04:08 My grandfather's name was Sumner Savadman, but we called him “Bipa”. He was always our Bipa. Um, he passed in October 2021 when I was a freshman in college. I don't remember specific stories about him, but I remember, like, how he made you feel, and how he made you feel like you were always, like, welcomed and always, like, he was so kind and genuinely, like, wanted to know how your day was. Like a lot of people ask, like, “Oh, like, you know, how's it going? How are you?” But he genuinely really wanted to know and would give you his full attention to, um, what you had to say in, in about your life. He, um, was very empathetic and caring. And even if it wasn't even just towards, like, his family, it was towards, like, everybody that he knew. He just made them feel like they were welcomed and wanted to, you know, get to know them. And he did this throughout his entire life. When my grandparents retired, they went on, like, a bunch travels and traveled around the world and everything like that. But they, like, met friends in every single place that they knew. They, um, would even, like, invite them, like, back, like, to the US. They were, like, in Australia, and they were talking with, like, their tour guide and some of their other friends, and they came and, like, visited them on Cape Cod down the Cape. He was always very calm and gentle, and just being, like, meet you where you were and, you know, figure out things with you and how he could help you in any way that he could. But, you know along those things, he also had his subtle dry humor. He would always, you know, never make fun of people. He never wanted to talk badly about people or never, you know, said an unkind thing about anyone, really. Um, he would always just have his subtle dry humor and brighten other people's days. Um, he's also a big coach. Another big thing about him was it the, was sports. He loves sports. From when I remember him best is I would, like, come up the stairs of, like, their loft, and he would just be sitting there with his goldfish next to him and, like, the big box of it, he's just sitting there eating and watching the Red Sox game or watching the Celtics or anything like that. He had a blanket for every single, like, Boston sports team, and we still have them to this day. I don't really remember the story exactly, but basically he was, like, really good at baseball, and he was asked to be on one of the major league teams, but he was like, “Uh, like sounds amazing, but I have to support my family and I'm gonna go, you know be this engineer over here in Ohio.” He always put his family first. He always wanted us to feel welcomed, but he truly cared about other people, too. He's one of a kind. I think there were so many, like, kind qualities about him. And when he passed, we had his Celebration of Life. It really brought the community people together, and everybody really shared how much love he had for other people and how much he really made them feel. It's not really about, you know the specific memories or specific things that he did. It was more, you know, the general feeling and appreciation that you had for other people. So I think, as I, you know, move forward in my life, I wanna do those same things and meet and, you know, make people feel like they have a space and they have, you know, a place. I never really, like, thought about, like, my relationship with him before that. It only wasn’t until after he passed that I really was like, “Oh, like, this was my grandfather.” I guess I never really thought much about it because I was like 18, and I was just doing my own thing, living my own life. And then it wasn't really until – I’m 22 now. And I've learned more things about him every single time that we talk about him. Every single time that we talk about him, it's a new story. It's a new feeling that he gave somebody. It's a new, you know, experience. I feel like even after he's passed, I've grown more close to him because I really cherished the person that he was. Previous Next

< Back Megan's Story Megan (20) tells a story about the most important person in her life, her grandfather “Poppy”. She talks about a road trip to his log cabin in Vermont, the many stops on the way, and their special relationship. 00:00 / 04:41 The most important person in my life was my grandfather, Poppy. We were really close because he lived down the road from me growing up. I was over there all the time whenever my parents were working or needed to do something. My grammy, she would always have cinnamon raisin toast with butter ready for me anytime I was there with a glass of chocolate milk. And Poppy was so adventurous. I didn't even realize how old he was. He would ride bikes with us and play basketball. It was always a really great time there. One time, I remember going over there. My parents didn't just drop me off. They stayed. What happened was my and Poppy, they were going to move further north. Then they ended up moving to their dream log cabin in Vermont. And this was a really special place. It had a river, and it had a train too that would shake the house, but it was now 3 hours away. Even then, he would drive to, like, to see me play and, like, my band performances and softball games and everything. In March of 2022, my grammy had passed away in a car accident. And so, because my puppy was always putting everybody before himself, he didn't know that he had cancer. And so, after that accident and my grammy's passing, he received his lung cancer diagnosis. And so, he ended up having to leave that Vermont log cabin, and he had to move in with my parents. Now he was starting chemotherapy and would require a lot more assistance. I was away at school. And so, during this whole time when Poppy was receiving these treatments, I really wasn't there. It wasn't until the summer break when I was able to come home that I saw him again and we were able to spend so much time together. It was really like how it was when I was younger when he lived so close. It was really awesome. We went fishing. We would just like old times, we would it was really great. But then he decided that he no longer wanted to continue with the chemotherapy because, like I said, it was taking a great toll on him and his body, and the risk wasn't worth it at that point. He made the decision to stop, and it was really sad. But I just wanted to, like, enjoy every second with him because he is so special to me. During this summer, every weekend, he would ask me to take a ride up to Vermont to go visit his house, his log cabin, because he hadn't been up there since, you know, months prior, in August of 2022. We went on a big road trip to Vermont. It was really a road trip to remember. He sat in the passenger seat playing DJ. He brought along all of his CDs and was, like, switching them every so often, but we made many stops on the way. We stopped at each and every one of his old houses. We stopped to at old friends' houses, old churches. We stopped at his old realtor's office and old restaurants that he would have great memories. So, this whole trip took us a really long time. But whenever he would say, hey, Megan. Like, can we just stop at this one more place? I would say, yes. Of course. So, I would just make sure that I would say yes to everything because I knew that this was really special for him. When we got to Vermont, we ate frozen meals that my mom prepared for us, and we slept in sleeping bags. And we just enjoyed the time in the moment. After that trip, in August, I had to go back to school in September, so it was really hard to leave. In November of 2022, I got a call from my parents saying that, Poppy had had a stroke and that I should probably come home. So, I did not take this lightly. I had this gut feeling, and so I just drove home that night just to be safe. And, when I got home, he wasn't awake at that point. He wasn't talking or anything. But I got to see him one last time. And everybody that came over, all my family members, we all slept over at my house just to make sure that everybody was there. And then the next morning, he took his final breath. It was Veteran’s Day. So, when the funeral home came, they put a flag over him because he was a veteran of the army, and so that was really special to everyone there. And then we saw him drive off, and we just stood there and watched him turn the last corner. Previous Next

< Back Travis' Story 00:00 / 05:28 Previous Next