The Adelphi Years: Representative McCarthy's Guide to Maximizing Your College Experience 

by Rebecca Raymond

During Hillary Clinton's visit to Adelphi on January 13, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy took the honorable seat next to the First Lady and was praised by Adelphi's President Isenberg as "a woman of valiance, courage, and determination." He said that as a local representative, she has been a champion in combating gun violence, breast cancer and encouraging academic excellence. 

Then the congresswoman began to speak and let the audience in on a secret. As a young woman, she used to sneak into classes at Adelphi.

McCarthy's love of learning began in the early 60's. Unable to enroll in college due to financial difficulties, she attended classes with a friend, who happened to go to Adelphi. Carolyn, being the dutiful, "non-matriculated student," did not miss any classes.  

She thought her secret was safe, but a biology teacher figured it out. He wasn't angry, though. Instead he told her that he was delighted to have a student in his class who wanted so desperately to learn.

Although recognized as a "dear friend and loyal supporter of this university," by President Isenberg, Rep. McCarthy has rarely shared her story of her years at Adelphi in public. "I was always afraid Adelphi would eventually send me a bill," she said.