Student Q&A: Adele Accelus ’29
As a first-year student and member of the volleyball team, Adele Accelus has already embraced every opportunity to grow as a leader, teammate, and student at UMass Boston. Drawn to the university for its academic rigor, affordability, and strong sense of community, Accelus has managed to balance the many demands of being a student-athlete, finding support both on the court and in the classroom. We recently connected with Adele to learn more about her journey so far and what being part of the UMass Boston community means to her.
Q: What made you choose to attend UMass Boston?
A big thing for me is graduating debt free. After applying and getting into UMass Boston, I was drawn to the competitive nature of the volleyball program. After recovering from a severe concussion in my senior year of high school, I wasn’t sure if volleyball was still in the picture for me, but when I met the team and the coaches, I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of.
Q: How did UMass Boston play a role in where you are today?
UMass Boston has taught me how to balance competing priorities. Whether it’s managing a week’s worth of assignments in political science or waking up at sunrise for an early morning weightlifting session, in each aspect of my life here the university has provided me with an ultimate support system that pushes me to be a leader both on the court and in the classroom.
Q: What has been your most memorable experience as a Beacon?
The most memorable experience was when we played Plymouth State for the first time. It was a mental health promotional match, and during our warmup, we all wore shirts that said, “U are enough.” This game was so memorable to me because we weren’t sure we were going to win, but the energy and aura were electric. It felt like we were truly connected that day. There’s a specific bond you form with your teammates when you’re all moving as a cohesive unit—not just as teammates but as friends.
Q: How has your experience been as a student-athlete?
It has been incredibly rewarding but requires discipline. For me, being a student-athlete means that I am representing my school 24/7. It has taught me how to be resilient and mindful of the fact that even if I had a tough loss the night before, I still have to show up for my class the next day.
Q: Are you involved in any other extracurricular activities?
I am a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Council. It is exhilarating to be able to work with fellow student-athlete leaders that step up and want to make an impact on campus.
Q: What are your goals after graduation?
I plan to take the leadership and teamwork skills I developed on the volleyball court and apply them to a career in law.
Q: What advice would you give a prospective student?
I would tell them that you get what you give. If you are willing to engage with the community, join clubs, support your fellow Beacons, then you will find a second home here. Don’t be afraid to lean on your professors and coaches— because they truly want to see you succeed.