Coming from Antigua and Barbuda, Selene Kentish calls Chowan University her second home. She is a senior, graduating in Psychology and planning on obtaining an MSW focusing on Health Care. She is also interested in working in the foster care system, with particular concern for children in difficult placements. Kentish is applying at universities in Florida, Atlanta and England for graduate school.

Kentish wishes to eventually return to Antigua and share what she has learned in her studies, helping to build a better system for promoting social change. Antigua and Barbuda are sister islands and very small. She was shocked when she first attended Chowan University and students spoke of traveling one hour, even two to attend an event. Driving 40 – 50 minutes was all the time it took to drive from one end of her island to another. Barbuda is simple living with the main industry farming and fishing. Kentish’s family, her mom, dad and younger sister live in Antigua, home to 365 beaches. Kentish’s mother is an accountant and her father a land surveyor. 

Selene Kentish is a tennis player, a transfer student from Florida. She loves her teammates and appreciates the entire team culture. Chowan’s smaller campus allows opportunities to be recognized. She is a member of Honors College, Psi Chi and Pi Gamma Mu; Kentish was awarded Outstanding Student 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 and currently serves as Social Media Coordinator for the International Students Club and Women’s Tennis Team Captain.

“Chowan University is what you make it.” Her advice is wise beyond her years. “You may be looking for a bigger life, but take advantage of the small things; they can turn into big hopes and dreams.”