Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
While in high school in Milan, Italy, Martina Croce developed a deep interest in international affairs. The European Migration Crisis had a personal dimension for her—some of her classmates were refugees, and their stories left a lasting impression.
“I wanted to understand what was happening in the world, why it was happening, and what political decisions were behind it,” she recalled. With this global outlook, she attended a language-focused school where she studied English, German, and Spanish. Her decision to study abroad was influenced by a family friend who had come to the U.S. to play soccer. Like him, she saw an opportunity to combine sports and education and left Milan to pursue her dream of higher education, playing volleyball, and helping others.
After earning her Associate’s degree in Political Science and International Relations at Harford Community College in Maryland, she transferred to Georgian Court University to complete her Bachelor’s degree. “I knew it was the right fit during my campus tour. It was such a welcoming environment, and people really care here,” she explained.
Majoring in Political Science and minoring in Politics, Law, and History, Martina remained focused on her primary goal: a career in humanitarian work. “I want to be on the humanitarian side of international relations—helping people, not just making policies.”
An active volunteer on campus, Martina served on the Hunger and Homeless Awareness Task Force and worked to restart a Catholic Relief Service Chapter at GCU. “We have a food pantry available for students facing food insecurity, whether they are residents or commuters, and during Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week we engaged with students to raise awareness about these issues.”
Martina has also served as an advocacy intern with Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity. Her work took her to Capitol Hill, where she met with Senator Booker’s staff to advocate for fair housing in New Jersey. “It gave me real hands-on experience in advocacy—connecting with donors, working with volunteers, and engaging with legislators.”
As the Women’s Volleyball team captain, she led the Lions to a championship in the 2024 season. “Volleyball shaped who I am. It taught me leadership, accountability, and how to support others.”
Martina has been inducted into several honor societies, including Phi Alpha Theta (History), Kappa Gamma Pi (National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society), and the National College Athlete Society. Recently, she was named Georgian Court’s top political science graduate and was recognized at the university’s senior champagne toast.
While at GCU, Martina delved deeply into Mercy Core Values, which helped her reflect on the importance of compassion and integrity. “Compassion isn’t pity; it’s about listening, supporting, and being present for others,” she stated. “And integrity is about being true to oneself, no matter who is watching.”
Transitioning to campus life as an international student can be challenging, but Martina said her experience was seamless thanks to GCU’s Global Education Department and the support and guidance of her teammates.
She also credits Professor Scott H. Bennett, Chair of the Department of History & Politics, “He’s been incredible. He has written recommendation letters, helped with internships, and is always available to help.” She added that Campus Minister Amy Cerreta was also a great mentor and played a key role in getting her involved with campus service initiatives.
After graduation, Martina will return to Italy for the summer before heading to Washington, D.C., for graduate school. She was accepted into her dream program—a Master’s in International Affairs at George Washington University’s Elliot School of International Affairs.
Martina offers advice to fellow students: “Get out of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid of hard work, and be proactive. Nothing comes to you unless you go after it. You have to take the initiative.”
Martina’s ultimate goal is to launch a humanitarian career in the U.S., a dream that seems much more attainable thanks to the strong foundation she has built at GCU. “I’ve grown so much here, as a student-athlete and a person. GCU has become my home away from home, and I’ll always be grateful for that.”
