Countdown to Commencement 2022: Emma Paradise

Inclusive childhood and psychology major Emma Paradise is the next member of the Class of 2022 to be featured in the “Countdown to Commencement” series. Paradise was nominated by Dr. Whitney Rapp, associate dean of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. School of Education.

Paradise is the founder and first president of the College’s Best Buddies Club and is a peer mentor on campus.

She originally chose Fisher because she knew didn't want to be just a number in a huge lecture hall. When she was a junior in high school, she thought that a larger university would be more beneficial, but then when she stepped foot on Fisher's campus, Paradise saw how supportive the staff and faculty were at Fisher.

Rapp first met Paradise during her sophomore year and has since seen her grow into a seasoned leader. Rapp said Paradise works tirelessly to include the students from the postsecondary programs in all aspects of campus life.

"Emma is collaborative and supportive of everyone she knows. Her integrity, calm demeanor, optimism, willingness to help, amazing work ethic, and drive to learn are infectious. Emma set the tone for everyone in her classes, including me,” said Rapp. “I am hard-pressed to think of someone I admire as much. Regardless of how much she has to do, she always has time to support others.”

Rapp sees Paradise in the near future becoming a very effective teacher and leader in whatever field she may choose. She noted that the “impact of her work will have astounding effects on her students, family, and colleagues.”

Paradise has enjoyed her time at Fisher and credits faculty and staff for caring for their students. “All of the faculty and staff really support their students with everything; they want you to succeed and they want you to get jobs in the future,” said Paradise. “I've met such a supportive friend group here as well that I know I will continue to have for the rest of my life.”