Why Earning His BA in Political Science Mattered to Anthony Fernandez

Anthony Fernandez '25 traveled from Stony Point, New York, to walk the Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Commencement stage for himself — and for his mom.

“She’s been there my whole life and she’s always supported me,” he said. “I really wanted her to see me walk and get my degree.”

Fernandez, who earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science, said the experience felt amazing. “It was like a weight lifted off my shoulders and such a blessing for me, honestly,” he said. “It’s a big moment for me.”

A Future in Law

Fernandez chose SNHU's political science program because he plans to pursue a career in law. “This is like the beginning of my journey here, getting this degree,” he said.

His ultimate goal is to earn a law degree and use it to make a difference in his community. (Note: SNHU does not currently offer degrees in law.)

To prepare for that path ahead, Fernandez said his final capstone course helped him the most. “It taught me a lot of skills that I’m going to use in my future career, including researching,” he said. “I really appreciated that course a lot.”

Why SNHU?

Before coming to SNHU, Fernandez said he had attended several other schools. “I fell on some hard times in life and SNHU was there to pretty much pick me up and help me out,” he said. “They were very supportive throughout the whole process.”

Earning his degree while working more than full-time wasn’t easy, Fernandez said. “But the staff at SNHU was incredible and they guided me along the way the entire process,” he said.

Growth and Confidence

Looking back, Fernandez said he feels more confident than when he first started his program. “I’m very confident in my future now,” he said. “I’m very happy and I’m very content with everything that’s going on.”

According to Fernandez, his educational experience was 100% worth it.

And for anyone considering enrolling, he said go for it. “Do it,” he said. “Don’t think twice, just do it. The faster you get it done, the faster you can move on in life. Absolutely do it.”

Rebecca Cahill '26 is a content marketing assistant and writer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). She completed her bachelor’s in creative writing and English at SNHU and is now pursuing a master's in English and creative writing. Based in Ohio, she has also written for FreshWater Cleveland and The Land and serves on the board of Literary Cleveland. When she’s not writing, you'll most likely find her nose in a book, dogs at her side, surrounded by way too many houseplants. Connect with her on LinkedIn.