The Chance They Deserve
The innovative Torch Scholars programs helps extraordinary students open the door to an education they once thought beyond their reach -- and keeps the university true to its roots.

By Elaine McArdle
Photography by Tanit Sakanini

It’s a rainy and unseasonably warm Sunday afternoon in early January as students trickle back to the North­eastern campus after the holiday break. Dressed in baggy shorts and a Swedish metal band T-shirt, freshman Jordan Munson strolls into a lounge in the Curry Student Center, where the Patriots game is showing on a large-screen TV, and breaks into a wide grin.

“I love Northeastern!” he exclaims, settling into a chair at the Starbucks café along one end of the room. “It’s beyond comprehension, the feeling for me of being here. Just waking up makes me happy.” He shakes his head, still smiling, and adds, “The first thing I said when I got here today was ‘Wow, it feels great to be home.’”

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