From Haiti to Campus Leader: Jonathan Jocelyn Builds Community and Confidence at Roger Williams University

BRISTOL, R.I. – Before he became a campus leader and founder of Global Hawks, Jonathan Jocelyn was a first-year student adjusting to life far from home. Born and raised in Haiti, he arrived at Roger Williams University unsure of what to expect, but quickly found a community that would shape his journey. From the moment he arrived, Jocelyn found that RWU’s welcoming environment pushed him to step outside his comfort zone and grow more confident.

Jocelyn, a Finance and International Business double major with a minor in Economics, was drawn to RWU for its small class sizes and coastal setting, something that reminded him of home. As he grew more comfortable on campus, Jocelyn began getting involved in a wide range of organizations and leadership roles. Each experience helped him build confidence and strengthen his communication skills. “Since getting here, I feel like I’ve grown a lot, especially with my public speaking and putting myself out there,” he says.

During his time at the university, Jocelyn immersed himself in campus life. He worked as an admissions ambassador, gave tours to prospective students, and helped manage summer conferences. He took on roles as a building manager for Student Programs, Leadership, and Operations (SPLO) and as a student assistant for International Student and Scholar Services, all while staying active in student organizations. Within the Multicultural Student Union, he grew from secretary to vice president, building both leadership and organizational skills along the way.

One of his most meaningful accomplishments came in 2022, when he founded the Global Hawks, a club for international students. “I wanted to create a space where students could make friends and feel comfortable,” he says. “A community they could connect with.” What started as an idea became a place where students navigating similar experiences could find support and belonging.

That same mindset carried into his role as a resident assistant. “Being an RA allowed me to help students with both academics and student life,” he says. “I just wanted to make sure they felt supported and safe.” Through these roles, Jocelyn says he became more culturally aware and more confident in himself. “I’ve learned how to work with different kinds of people and stay organized.”

Balancing everything wasn’t always easy. Between academics, leadership roles, and work, there were challenges. But he leaned on his support system and stayed focused. “It does get difficult, but I remind myself that it will get done eventually,” he says. His dedication paid off when he consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List, something he takes pride in. “I wasn’t always a strong student before, so it means a lot to see that growth.”

After graduation, Jocelyn will attend North Eastern University in Toronto, Canada for graduate school where he will work towards a Master's of Science in Information Systems. Following that, he hopes to find a career that allows him to travel. “I don’t want to be stuck in one place,” he says. “I want to explore.”

Looking back, Jocelyn says college has changed his perspective. “Success now means being happy with the path you chose and looking forward to building every day.” He encourages other students to step outside their comfort zones. “Don’t be afraid to try something new and stay true to yourself,” he says.