Today we speak to Holly Zurenda, a senior Computer Science and Mathematics double major. A Rapid City, South Dakota native, Holly attended Black Hills State University and South Dakota School of Mines & Technology before transferring to Rowan University ten years later. Holly commutes from Egg Harbor Township, NJ (Atlantic County). Holly is set to graduate in December 2021.
How was your transition into Rowan?
The process was amazingly simple. I had originally applied to be in the Combined Advanced Degree Program (CADP) in Subject Matter Education for Math and Science majors. Then, somebody had mentioned Computer Science and told me to try that degree program instead to see if I would like that more. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I thought I would teach, but I liked math more, so I ended up in the Computer Science program.
Could you share a moment when you felt that Rowan was the right place for you?
I think most of all, it’s the professors. I feel like every professor is always willing to help. They help within office hours. They’ll schedule meetings with you outside of office hours if you need help. I think definitely it was the professors who have made this experience the best that it can be for me.
What are you most excited about when Rowan returns to face-to-face learning?
I think I’ll be most excited to work as a team with people in person, rather than on group calls. It is a little more difficult to work in a group online, especially when it’s computer science. Everybody has something up on their screen and we can’t all share our screens at once. I’m definitely most excited to do a group project in a true group fashion.
What are your plans for after you graduate from Rowan?
I think I will get a master’s degree in Computer Science. Then, I will get a Ph.D. in Computer Science. I want to teach Computer Science at a college level.
What are you passionate about in your majors?
I wouldn’t say that my passion is truly for computers, science or math. My passion is actually teaching people. I seem to have a knack for it, and computer science is a high-need area. Most people don’t understand math and therefore they don’t understand computer science or vice versa, so I just figured it would be an excellent subject that I could actually help people learn about.
How was transferring to Rowan the right choice for you?
I think that overall, it comes down to flexibility. A lot of colleges put a cap on how far you can commute, and I could commute from an hour away to Rowan. Also price-wise, it was better for me than other colleges. Overall, I just think Rowan is a pretty standup school.
Do you have any advice for someone else who is returning to college after a long hiatus?
It’s definitely going to be difficult at first, but don’t give up. You will get back into the swing of things so quickly if you just keep trying.
Today we speak to Cory Monroe, a graduating Public Relations major and mom from Medford, NJ (Burlington County). Cory transferred to Rowan from Rowan College at Burlington College. Corey is a first-generation college student.
If you could paint a picture of your time here at Rowan, what would that look like?
It would look like it’s come full circle, I suppose. I graduated from Rowan College at Burlington County and transferred to Rowan University in 2014. I was finishing up one semester and then the next semester would have been my final year at Rowan, but my mom got sick and was hospitalized the week of finals. I couldn’t even finish taking my finals because she was diagnosed with cancer. It was a chaotic time for me. She passed away quickly the next month. It took me a very long time to come back to school. I would say that I just feel like my time at Rowan, though chaotic, has come full circle.
What are some challenges you faced, being a student and a mother?
I would say that I experienced mom guilt sometimes. Sometimes I need to ask my husband, “Hey, I didn’t get everything done that I had to get done. During naptime or bedtime, I need a few hours to study or to write this paper,” and I feel bad. My husband is very supportive. I still feel bad segmenting off that time, even though it’s for the better. It’s for the best that I finish my degree. I would just say time management has become really important, and conquering mom guilt is very important.
How has Rowan helped you achieve your goals?
I would say that Lori Brucker, the advisor for the Public Relations and Advertising department, has been very helpful. There were a few times I was going to come back to school, but then it just didn’t pan out. I was suffering with some depression prior to having my son, and the people at Rowan were really patient. They didn’t say, “Oh my gosh, this is like your third time talking about coming back to school, get your life together.” They were really patient and believed that I could graduate. Each time that I would come back and ask “Okay, what do I have to do?” and then I didn’t go through with it, they were always just very supportive of me finishing my degree and telling me what I had to do to get there. I appreciated that.
What was your inspiration for coming back to finish your degree?
My son, 100 %. Eventually, when he’s a little older, I want to go back to school for nursing in an accelerated bachelor’s program, and you have to have your bachelor’s degree to be in the program. I want to complete what I started and make my mom proud of me for finishing it, even though it wasn’t easy.
How do you best balance school, life, and being a mom?
I take advantage of nap time. Luckily, my son still naps. During his nap time, I set a goal of getting something finished, and that’s when I do it. I actually find that I’m more proactive with deadlines now as a mom than I was before. I used to wait until the last minute and say that I don’t have any time, but now I finish assignments two weeks in advance. I try to get things done, so it’s off of my shoulders.
What advice do you have for other mothers that are thinking about coming back to school or that are already here trying to finish their degree?
I would say that if it makes you happy, come back to school and complete your degree. You’re definitely going to be inspiring your son or daughter. They’ll be able to see that you made sacrifices and that you work towards an end goal that wasn’t easy. They’ll see that as an adult, it’s difficult to come back to school to finish a degree, or begin and finish a degree while having a child.
What is your favorite thing about being a mom?
I love absolutely everything about being a mom right now. I’m a stay-at-home mom. I love being a stay-at-home mom. My son is always happy to see me. As soon as he wakes up in the morning, he’s always so happy to see me. He is just full of like endless love and limitless fun. He’s my heart.
Today we speak to Victoria Hable, a first-generation college student and mom from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Victoria transferred from Harrisburg Area Community College to Rowan College at Burlington College. She will transfer to Rowan University in the fall as part of the 3+1 program. Victoria is majoring in Psychology and will graduate next spring.
Can you tell me a little about the 3+1 program that you’re currently enrolled in?
I’m in the 3+1 program for Psychology. The 3+1 program is going to Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) for three years and transferring to Rowan and finishing a bachelor’s degree there for one year. I was a Music Business major at Harrisburg Area Community College. When I transferred to RCBC, I changed my major to Psychology. I had a lot of credits from the Music Business program that my 3+1 advisor Diana helped me work in as some extra electives so it wouldn’t delay my graduation date. From there, I created a plan to complete my last two years of my bachelor’s degree at RCBC and Rowan.
How did you hear about Rowan and what made you want to come here?
I moved to the area two years ago for a change of scenery. I was able to live with family and babysit for them. I started at RCBC in 2018 to finish up community college, and I found out about the 3+1 program while I was there. I started the program when I was a year into my time at RCBC, and that is how I found out about Rowan.
What is it like to balance being a mother with being a student?
It’s difficult. It’s definitely a lot. My son was born with Down Syndrome, so he has a lot of therapies and appointments. Balancing his appointments, my appointments and schoolwork is a lot. I’m not working, so it gives me a little more leeway in my schedule, but my job right now is to take care of him and finish school.
How has Rowan supported you in being a mother and a student?
It was two weeks into the spring semester, last January when I went to Diana, my advisor. I told her I had just found out I was four months pregnant, and I didn’t know what to do with my 3+1 plan. She helped me rearrange my plan to accommodate my being out for six weeks. I was out over the summer, so it only put me behind by two classes. It did not move my graduation date back at all. Instead of encouraging me to take a semester off because I found out I was pregnant, my advisor encouraged me to keep going. Diana was very dedicated to helping me figure out a new plan and stay in college like I wanted. The professors I have had so far are also willing to work with me.
How does your son motivate you to continue to pursue your career?
I had some prenatal testing that was done about five months into my pregnancy, but I didn’t know until my son was actually born that he was 100% going to have Down Syndrome. Last May, I saw that the first student with Down Syndrome graduated from Rowan University last year. That was really cool for me to see, and that gave me more motivation to keep pushing to pursue my career and more motivation that my son might be able to go to college. Seeing that student graduate is also the reason why I decided to name my son Rowen. Rowen is in therapy twice a week, we’re working with him constantly. Seeing his resilience to everything and how he adapts to his environment is a big motivator for me, especially me being a psychology major. Watching him grow and learn new things is so fun, and it just makes me want to learn more about him and more about neuro-psychology.
Do you have any advice for any current or incoming Rowan students that are also moms?
Since COVID has happened, I have met online classmates who are moms as well. But as for advice, if you have a support system, take advantage of it. The school is 100% percent behind you to help. But I think the biggest thing is just to stick with it. Even if it gets a little heavy sometimes.
What are your goals after you graduate?
When I switched my major to Psychology originally, I wanted to pursue my master’s in Psychology. I wanted to apply for the FBI and work in forensics. But since I’m a Mom now, I had to change my path a bit. Now, I eventually want to get into trauma psychology and maybe criminal justice reform.
The insightful & inspiring story of one adult learner pursuing a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) at Rowan University’s Rohrer College of Business [Reviewed and updated by editor November 15, 2024.] A mother running both her household and an essential business during a global pandemic, Marguerite Romilus stayed the course, not even taking a break […]
Today we speak with JT Kurtz, a first-generation college student from Egg Harbor Township (Atlantic County). JT will be graduating this year with a degree in Computer Science and currently works as an ARD (Assistant Resident Director) on campus. He is also active in RUPAC (the Rowan University Philippine American Coalition) and is a Human Factors Researcher for the Psychology department.
What clubs have you been a part of?
I am part of the Rowan University Philippine American Coalition (RUPAC – the Filipino club). I am half-Filipino and half-Italian!
I’m also a Human Factors Researcher for the Psychology department. Human Factors looks at processes (not just technical, anything with how a team operates or any technologies they work with). We try to find the most efficient way to make it better or redesign it so that it’s much easier for everyone.
When I was in the Honors College, my Comp II professor (Professor Flocco) was the coordinator for the Honors B.L.A.S.T. Mentor Program. I told her about my passion for computer science. I really like taking something, being innovative or redesigning it, and making sure it’s the best for someone to visually see and understand. That’s considered User Interface or User Experience Design (UI or UED). That segued into “Oh, she knows somebody at UPenn. Speak with them and see what opportunities you can get from there.” So, I went all the way to Philly, had a 30-minute conversation and that person was like “Hey, I know somebody that’s here at Rowan.” I came back and had an interview with my advisor, Dr. Tremoulet. She is fantastic without a doubt. She said “I’m going to bring you on board with my team. So I’ve been in her lab for about a year and a half now. We actually just published one of her researches. It was super awesome.”
Tell me more about RUPAC!
I’ve been a part of that since my sophomore year. I went out my freshman year to the Org Fair, that was always an awesome opportunity. My friend and I went to high school together. He’s been in it since freshman year and was like “Hey, you should check it out.” I met some really great people and being part of that org has helped me start my DJ career because they always needed a DJ for any of their on-campus events. And from there, I was able to build my network because RUPAC is affiliated with major regional and national Filipino conferences [all under the organization called “Filipino International Networking Dialogue” (FIND) spanning colleges from Massachusetts down to Florida].
I believe it was last year, prior to COVID, I went to TCNJ. They hosted a big conference called “Dialogue” where all of these other Filipino organizations come together. They talk about what it’s like to be Asian American and how we can better our communities from all different kinds of perspectives. It was really cool, it’s always fun! You play games, share stories, and then you make new friends. With that, I was actually able to segue into being the DJ for their regional formal dance (hosting students from 7 out of the 8 regions in FIND). With RUPAC, it’s been really great to be on campus. I know they’re still working their best now even with the pandemic.
Are you part of any other clubs?
I feel like I always do too much (everyone always describes me like that). Aside from that, nothing else on campus. I have my off-campus internship as a software developer for General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT).
Where are they located?
They have a lot of different branches and offices. They’re a government contracting agency, similar to Lockheed Martin. I interned with them over the summer and I will continue interning with them throughout the school year. Thankfully, I just accepted a full-time job with them.
When do you start working for them full-time?
I believe I start with them in June. I have to smooth things out, fill out some paperwork with the manager. I’m super excited. The game plan from there is to work with them and hopefully, I would like to pursue my master’s in Computer Science.
How did you find that internship?
Every year since freshman year, I went to the Career Fair and that’s how I found GDIT.
Do you have any thoughts on what’s happening with Asian hate?
We definitely live in a world where there’s hatred all throughout. It’s a shame that there are different groups that are being targeted. I think a lot of people try to work together to make things better. I know recently we had a march around campus [protesting Asian hate]. I encourage any group that has [been targeted] to come together and speak on how we can make our society better. We can acknowledge that things are happening in our world that is definitely wrong. At the same time, we need to work together and come up with solutions to prevent that from happening.
Have you ever experienced any Asian hate on campus?
Personally no, that’s actually an interesting topic now. I think about how when you walk around campus and how people can tell if you’re of a certain race. I don’t think that’s fair because you don’t fully know their background. You probably didn’t know I was Filipino because I don’t portray the common characteristics of a Filipino. I think that contributes to why I don’t experience much of that perspective. At the same time, I can still resonate with my friends, my family, and my culture. I’m sure there are other people in that same situation. Maybe they don’t contribute to the hate but they don’t understand it. I will definitely support this movement as much as possible with as much as I can.
Meet incoming transfer student and first-generation college student Erin Finter! Erin is an aspiring Liberal Studies major from Medford, NJ (Burlington County) who transferred from Rowan College at Burlington County. She shares more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan University and she gives advice to other transfer students.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
New professors!
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
I’m currently the VP of the criminal justice club … I’d love the chance to continue that!
What majors are you considering and why?
I’ve chosen liberal studies with a focus in law.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
The 3+1 info event. It was well put together and full of great information!
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Figure out what you want to do after graduating and pick a school bed equipped to help you achieve it!
Meet incoming transfer Prof Heather Doerr, a Public Health & Wellness major from Marlton, NJ (Burlington County). Heather transferred from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She shares how she chose Rowan and what she’s looking forward to!
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I am looking forward to being involved in clubs and initiatives that advocate for wellness and support communities’ overall health.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
I recently joined the Public Health Club.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I have changed my major from IFSM to Public Health and Wellness, which is a new venture for me, but an interest I have had for a few years. I hope to combine my passion to advocate for our community’s good health with the skills and knowledge that I will be learning at Rowan and play an instrumental role in educating, empowering and improving the overall health of communities.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am enrolled in the Public Health & Wellness BS program. After working in the Information Systems realm for the last two years, I realized my work did not fulfill my desire to help users as I had intended when entering the field. Working in a stationary position in front of a computer for 8-12 hours a day was not conducive to my good health, both physically and mentally. When I took the Nutrition class in my first year, I was amazed by how uninformed I was in what my body needed for optimal health function. This sparked my interest and passion to play a role in improving not only the health of myself and my family, but also society.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Yes, I attended the Rowan self-paced tour. The Rowan campus was huge, the campus has grown into its own community, which is very inspiring and comforting. Although I was there on a Saturday during COVID restrictions, I was able to get a sense of the positive energy and support that exists at this school. The buildings that I was able to access were easy to find and had an abundance of resources.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Review all the programs that Rowan has to offer as well as the career options within those programs. Rowan provides prospective students with information online, over the phone, and through various tour options of the campus. Everyone I have communicated with through email or virtual meetings were very informative and helpful.
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The abundance of resources to help achieve success.
Meet incoming transfer Prof Rosetta Briscoe. Rosetta is a Psychology major from Pemberton, NJ who transferred from Rowan College of Burlington County. She shares how she chose Rowan University and what she’s looking forward to!
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I’m looking forward to everything the school has to offer. I’m excited for the academic and personal growth that is to come.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
I’m not active in any clubs, but I do have a hobby of jewelry making and singing. I would love to be a part of any club that inspires me to be creative and help individuals.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I would like to explore my options and join clubs, be active, and perhaps try a new skill. I love learning something new and being able to apply the knowledge toward my degree.
What majors are you considering and why?
Psychology so I can help counsel, and perhaps business, so that I can have my own practice.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended a virtual event for Psychology, it was informative and wonderful. I would recommend it to students.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Do your research, then see which schools are the best fit for you. Think about the financial requirements, your academics, and what would be best for you.
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I like that so far I have experienced people working together as a team to make sure students are able to succeed.
Rowan Global student Steven Anderson shares how his history degree prepared him as a high school social studies teacher during COVID-19. Steven recently earned the James Madison Fellowship as an outstanding educator of the U.S. Constitution. This prestigious award is granted to only two history teachers yearly.
Today we speak with Alex Brown, a senior Music Industry major and first-time resident assistant (RA) at Chestnut Hall.
What advice do you have for incoming first years or transfers living in residence halls?
Definitely do not be afraid to try something out. If there is something that peaks your interest even a little bit and you feel like you can manage that with your course load, or even if you think you can’t, at least give it a shot. One, you’ll meet the people who run it; two, learn more about it; and three, you can say that you gave it your best shot.
There are people who leave after four years regretting not joining a club or being more involved on campus.
What advice do you have for students who choose to live in a residence hall?
It’s a great experience, but it’s also something where you get what you put in. I highly recommend talking to as many new people as you can. You never know who is going to be your next best friend or resource for the rest of your college career.
Do you have any advice for students dealing with homesickness?
You’ll definitely feel homesick the first few weeks, but Rowan does a lot of welcome week events where you can start immersing yourself with all the opportunities Rowan has to offer. Put yourself out there, go to events, go to Rowan After Hours (RAH) events every weekend, walk around, learn more about the campus and you’ll start to fit in to the environment. If you put in the effort to be a part of the community, the community will welcome you with open arms.
Can you tell us about some of the best parts of Chestnut Hall?
Chestnut Hall is huge. It’s on the bigger end of the first-year dorms. Because of that, there are a lot of people you see on a daily basis. The space allows for more connections and friendships to be made without having to go too far.
How would you describe the proximity to the academic buildings?
The way Chestnut is placed, you have a lot of different things that can help you. Chestnut has a parking lot for first-year students with access to a car. It’s a reasonable walk to Rowan Boulevard where there are a lot of restaurants. It’s also just a great hangout area for Rowan students and close to other first-year buildings.
Need some tunes to help you study for finals? Here are some recommendations from upperclassmen music majors.
Spiegel im Spiegel – Arvo Pärt
“It’s one of my favorite minimalist pieces. It repeats over and over, so it’s good to listen to when you’re trying to focus. I love how delicate it sounds; it reminds me of a lullaby. A couple years ago, I was reading a book called ‘The Rest Is Noise’ by Alex Ross. Pärt was mentioned in it, so I wanted to dive into his music more,” says senior Kimmy Speers, a Music Education: Instrumental major from Morristown, NJ (Morris County).
3Am Talk – Icemann
“Chill vibe.I created the song myself,” says first-generation junior Justin Nunez, a Music Industry major with a concentration in Technology and a transfer from Kean University from Jackson, NJ (Ocean County).
Nocturnes (all 21) – Chopin
“It is very calming and relaxing. Chopin is very popular in the classical music world, and played very often by pianists,” says senior Lisa Harkisheimer, a Music Education Instrumental major from Sicklerville, NJ (Gloucester County).
Etude No.2 – Phillip Glass
“Phillip Glass is a minimalist artist. His songs are thought provoking and stimulating to the ear. I studied minimalist artists in my theory course a year ago and found the compositions of Phillip Glass. I use his Playlist on Spotify to focus when I’m studying and thought it might help other students,” say junior Melissa Breslin of Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County), a Music Education Instrumental major and transfer student from Rowan College at Gloucester County.
Rêverie – Claude Debussy (or really anything by Debussy)
“It relaxes me without putting me to sleep. I discovered the song by researching romantic composers on my own and also hearing his music in my music classes,” says senior Liz Cicali, a Music Education major with a specialization in instrumental music from Absecon, NJ (Atlantic County).
The Brain Dance – Animals as Leaders
“This will stimulate your mind and senses in every way. You will be awakened to learn and receptive to new information. I discovered the song at a concert,” says senior Sunshine Jones, a Music Education Vocal Major and Classical Guitar minor from Sewell, NJ (Gloucester County).
L.A. Vibes – Iman Omari
“Iman Omari is the king of chill and loops. He’s a producer that makes dream like beats. He can chop any song up and claim it as his own. A lot of his music doesn’t contain words, he has a beat tape that has nothing but loops and it really helps me study. Hearing the beats allow me to read, think and focus on my tasks. I’m able to listen to music and concentrate, that’s all I need in this world. Music and focus,” says first-generation college junior Phinesse Scott, a Music Industry major and transfer student from Rowan College at Burlington County
Phinesse adds: “I discovered Iman Omari through YouTube. You can really go down a never-ending hole on YouTube. I typically like to search for beats on there and I came across one of his old tracks and it was at that moment I became a fan and looked for every song I could find that he made.”
Check Yes Juliet – We The Kings
“It’s a good song and catchy but by studying to this song it helps you to think back to what you read right before an exam if you listen to it again.It’s a popular pop rock song similar to artists I listen to,” says first-generation college junior Amanda Uretsky, a Music Industry major with a concentration in Technology and Business from Lumberton, NJ (Burlington County).
Imagine Paris – Daniel Paterok
“I find this song very relaxing, which I believe is important when doing homework or studying. Plus, I find the melody really pretty and catchy. I found this song on a public Spotify playlist that I sometimes listen to when I study,” says junior Emileigh Zane, a Music Industry major with a Business concentration who transferred from Rowan College of South Jersey and is from Penns Grove, NJ (Salem County).
Meet incoming transfer Prof Sara Brooks. Sara is a Psychology major originally from Orlando, Florida who transferred from Rowan College of Burlington County. She shares why she chose Rowan and what she’s looking forward to!
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I am looking forward to completing my bachelor’s degree in Psychology at a school that has progressive outlook on mental health and mindfulness.
If you are from out of state, why did you choose a university not in your home state? Why Rowan?
I grew up in Florida, and when I moved to New Jersey after getting married, I was lucky enough to find RCBC and enroll in their 3+1 program, which has given me the opportunity to transfer into Rowan University for my senior year and complete my bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
One [activity] that I look forward to becoming a part of is Rowan Thrive, especially in their Emotional Well-Being program. Stress and anxiety is something that all students face, and having resources that can help in learning how to navigate these emotions is important for everyone to discover their best self.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I am really looking forward to exploring more in Student Services and learning how I can be of service to more transfer students like myself who are coming into a new university and the opportunities that are available.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am a senior psychology major due to my natural interest in learning about why people are the way that they are. I currently work as a Behavioral Health Technician at an alcohol and drug treatment center working toward completing a certification as a Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor. Being able to complete my bachelor’s degree at Rowan and continue on to a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology is my goal, where I will focus more on dual diagnosis aspect of addiction.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Due to COVID being very present in my time of transferring to a university, I have only been able to attend virtual events and I have really enjoyed them. Being able to schedule Zoom advising sessions and talk with an advisor one-on-one has been so helpful in planning my future goals.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Not to focus too much on where you want to transfer schools to but why. Look into schools that offer programs that you could see yourself being a part of after graduation and that have programs that you could see yourself being a part of.
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I really liked that they offer so many courses in Psychology that focus on research and the study of behavior, especially mindfulness, and that they offer a Philosophy track as well.
Meet incoming transfer Brett Fleming. Brett is a Business Management major who calls Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County) home. He transferred from Rowan College of South Jersey. He shares why he chose Rowan University and what he’s looking forward to!
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to at Rowan University?
I am looking forward to attending in-person classes again. I have always enjoyed direct instruction from my professors and interesting interactions with my classmates. I appreciate when a professor relays his or her expertise while also sharing real-life experiences with us.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
Although I was involved in many extracurricular activities in high school such as varsity basketball, acting groups, choir and school musicals, my current school and work responsibilities have since consumed my time. I am now a RCSJ ISP [Intern Scholarship Program] Business Administration and Marketing intern, a bank CSA [Customer Service Associate], a committed gym goer, and an attendee at a college-age Bible study.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
Now that I have completed most of my general education classes at RCSJ, I look forward to digging deeper into the field of business. I hope to acquire applicable knowledge and wisdom in classes such Consumer Behavior, Operations Management, Principle of Training and Management, and the Business Management Simulation. Also, if time permits, I would love to have the opportunity to act or to play basketball again.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am enrolled as a Business Management major, and I also am minoring in Marketing. Since I was young, I have always loved working with both numbers and people. I am a reader, researcher and communicator. I have grown up playing sports and performing for others. I have been a camp counselor in multiple venues, and I was also an after-school child care provider in an elementary work setting.
Every day, I manage my time, resources, workload, employment and social life. I am always planning, scheduling and troubleshooting. I am constantly making phone calls, sending emails and texts, and ideally, connecting with others in person to develop relationships. While doing this, I strive to be genuinely caring and professional. Hopefully, that’s good management.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Although I have not toured Rowan’s academic buildings or attended any virtual events yet, I am familiar with the campus because some of my friends are Rowan students. Additionally, I have already made fun memories at Rowan’s surrounding restaurants and shops.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
My advice would be to commit to Rowan University, which has a great reputation all across the country. Rowan is practically in my backyard, offers me a solid education at an affordable price, and allows me to conveniently commute. It is a win-win in my book.
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
Even though I am transferring as a junior, I am already connected to Rowan University. I remember going to both the Escape Room and the Virtual Reality Center with my friends. I’ve also been to one of Rowan’s basketball games. I can recall the electricity of the crowd as they cheered on our home team. All in all, I have developed a built-in affinity to Rowan.
Also, I love how my foundational learning at RCSJ seamlessly transfers to Rowan. Because of this uncomplicated process, I can easily continue my undergraduate education.
Meet incoming transfer student NyEsha Cintron. NyEsha is a first-generation Human Services and Psychology major from Maple Shade, NJ (Burlington County) who transferred from Rowan College of Burlington County. She shares how she ended up at Rowan and what she’s looking forward to!
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I am looking forward to meeting new people, the ability to foster lasting relationships and grow in experience with my area of study. I am excited to see how school will impact my life as well as how I will impact the lives of others.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I will be taking a Spanish class, and I’d like to see my knowledge increase in this language to speak it fluently.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am a Human Services and Psychology major through and through. I love learning how to better understand people in efforts to better serve them. These majors are very organic to how I am wired, and I feel that I can be my best by furthering my education in these areas of studies.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I haven’t had the time to do so, but am awaiting orientation for transfer students, can’t wait!
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Do it and get started!
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I like that Rowan participated with community colleges to ensure continuity of learning to a accredited university.
Figuring out where you want to go to college is no simple task. Here, junior Public Relations and Advertising major Loredonna Fiore offers four reasons she says Rowan made it easy for her to pick a school 20 minutes away from home.
1. Amazing housing options
Normally, only juniors and seniors get to live in fancy apartments: not at Rowan. As early as your sophomore year, you can choose to live in an apartment with a kitchen and a living room. Rowan also has a great Residential Learning University Housing program where you can become a Resident Assistant and get free housing!
2. Affordability
As a New Jersey resident, I qualify for in-state tuition at Rowan. This allows me to get all of the benefits the school has to offer at a reduced rate. The Rowan Financial Aid office is always helpful with any questions about billing and tuition as well.
3. Surrounding Location
Rowan is a 20-minute drive to Philadelphia, two hours to New York City, and two hours from Washington, D.C. The close proximity to these major cities was intriguing to me because I knew I was near places with amazing professional opportunities.
4. Rowan’s opportunities
Even though I live close to Rowan, I didn’t let that get in the way of all of the opportunities it had to offer. I loved getting to tour the new College of Communications and Creative Arts building and thought that was a great indication of how up and coming Rowan is.
The Rowan Global M.S. in Bioinformatics (M.S.) program prepares you with skills that immediately contribute in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and biomedical fields.
Don’t know what to pack for your dorm? We’ve got you covered. Take a look at this list we’ve compiled to help you prepare for your first year.
Storage. Whether it’s bins or under-the-bed trays, it’s always a good idea to make sure everything has its own place. Storage containers will also help to keep your dorm clean and leave more room for yourself.
Desk Lamp. Keep your workspace bright for maximum productivity.
Power Strips. Since Rowan’s dorms don’t allow extension cords, it’s important to pack power strips so you’ll never run out of outlets and can keep all your electronics charged.
Aspirin or other pain relievers. It’s always good to be prepared, you never know when a headache could occur.
Posters/Art. Keep your dorm totally you. Express yourself!
Fan. Remember to stay cool. Research shows a cool room helps you maintain sleep throughout the night.
Laundry Basket. It keeps your clothes off the floor and it’s easy to carry your laundry.
All-purpose Cleaner and Paper Towels. Don’t let dust collect, a clean space is a comfortable space.
Umbrella. Don’t get stuck walking to class wet in the rain.
Calendar/Planner. Stay up to date with your assignments and schedule. With all this new freedom, it’s easy to fall behind.
Start your Rowan career off on the right foot. If you still don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of great resources online (like this post) to help you out. See you soon, Profs!
Today we feature Madelaine Mayfield, a junior Advertising major and recent transfer student from the Rowan College of South Jersey, Cumberland Campus. Madelaine hails from Millville, NJ (Cumberland County) and currently interns for the Bullock Garden Project in Glassboro, NJ.
Can you tell us more about the Bullock Garden Project?
The Bullock Garden Project (BGP) is a nonprofit that aims to empower and educate families to grow their own food. They’re especially focused on helping with food insecurity in marginalized communities as well as informing people about the overall benefits of gardening.
For one of our many projects, I attended a Zoom meeting about helping schools in New Jersey and Pennsylvania [by providing gardening] supplies and showing them how to garden. We have about 10 schools involved in this project including the Glassboro Child Development Center, Tewksbury Elementary and Secaucus High School.
The Rowan grant-funded project consists of free webinars called Get Up and Growwith the founder, Sonya Harris. Attendees can ask her any questions, and Sonya gives them valuable advice. She also will send them supplies! We have kids, grown-ups and college students attending. We usually have about 20 to 25 people attend.
Sonya worked at a school [as a special education teacher] and she made a garden one day at her school. Then, she reached out to a TV show about improving gardens. They came out and helped her. She realized that she wanted to help other schools have the same opportunity.
Ten schools participate in the Glassboro-based Bullock Garden Project.
How did you come across this position and what motivated you to join?
This job position was posted on ProfLink under Content Creation and Social Media. What motivated me was the fact that it was a nonprofit. I want to use my skills and what I’m learning for a good cause and a greater purpose. I was really excited because I love nonprofits. It motivates me more, knowing that [my work is] for a good cause. I know that if more people join and donate, then it’s helping the future.
Could you tell us a little bit about other BGP projects?
I came up with the Kind Acts Initiative as BGP’s Christmas campaign, where each member of our staff did at least one kind act. I did another campaign recently, where I share quick environmental facts. Before the pandemic, BGP would go to school and help them with supplies and gardening.
What classroom skills are you practicing in your internship?
The most influential class has been Advertising Copywriting. I practice copywriting in social media posts, captions and graphics. I’ve learned so much about how to get audiences engaged, how to create better content, and how important social media is (especially with BGP). Social media has helped BGP to grow and gain a lot of recognition.
What was the most rewarding part about working with BGP?
The most rewarding part about working with BGP is the amazing staff who are truly so encouraging, uplifting and want to see me grow. I feel very appreciated, and I know that they all care about me. Also, knowing that I’m doing work for an organization that is changing the world, school by school. They always encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone. They’re [supportive] of everything I do. I haven’t had that in any other job in my past. It’s so refreshing. I don’t feel embarrassed or scared in any way when I [share my work].
What skills and knowledge did you develop from working with BGP?
Definitely communication because I have to do meetings and social media. I know how to communicate my ideas and convince [the team] that it will work. I got my video editing skills from my YouTube channel I started in high school. I’m also really thankful for the graphic design skills I learned from Prof. Nancy Reighn-Garron in Publication Layout & Design. She was so helpful and always went out of her way to help me. I record the Zoom meetings and edit them into an Instagram video. I really like making videos because they are more engaging than photos.
What made you decide to switch majors from Radio/TV/Film to Advertising?
I chose Advertising because I want to help amazing small businesses, nonprofits and other organizations get the recognition they deserve. I love creating content, being creative and engaging with others online.
What advice would you share with a future student interested in your major?
Get involved, especially with internships, and do as many as you can so that you can gain experience. Figure out what you want to do. Working for BGP, I figured out so many things. I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do advertising, but now I know I want to work in social media. Doing it outside of class definitely helps you. You can use the skills that you learned in class, outside of class.
Advertising impacts the world in a way that spreads the word about brands, companies and organizations. Advertising is a huge factor in what the public consumes. As an advertising major, I want to make sure there are positive things being shared for a good cause.
I would like to bring attention to what matters most. Working for non-profits, I would like to encourage others to help and get involved in some of the global issues.
Today we feature Brandon Graham, a recent graduate of Rowan Global’s Master of Business Administration program. Brandon co-founded the company Arke Aeronautics while still an undergraduate Mechanical Engineering student at Rowan. Learn more about Brandon, his business and his contributions to the Rowan community. Brandon Graham defined his own education at Rowan. Now, as a […]
Meet incoming transfer student Paul Coppola! Paul is an aspiring Advertising major from Riverton, NJ (Burlington County) who transferred from Bucks County Community College. He shares more about what he’s looking to discover at Rowan and offers some advice to other transfers.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I’m looking forward to the general experience of going to school that isn’t a community college. The experience to me sounds like an enjoyable one and I couldn’t be more excited about it.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’ve recently become interested in writing. I had joined a Philadelphia Eagles blog and honed my skills there but I wish to increase those during my time at Rowan.
What majors are you considering and why?
I will be majoring in Advertising because I enjoy the creative aspect behind it and that world in general just fascinates me.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended a virtual orientation. I enjoyed the process a lot. They had made it sound like a much easier transition than I had originally thought it was going to be.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Just breathe. You’ll find the school of your dreams. It may not happen immediately but you’ll get that acceptance letter and feel a sense of relief.
Where are you going to live next year?
Commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
Meet incoming transfer student Kendra Hahn! Kendra plans on majoring inHistory Education (BA/MST) Program and is from Sicklerville, NJ (Camden County). She transferred from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Kendra shares with us why she chose Rowan and what she’s looking forward to.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
Here at Rowan I am really looking forward to making new friendships and gaining new experiences, but then also being able to successfully pursue my passion.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
In high school I was always involved with student council/government and it definitely made me into the person I am today, so I would love to continue that here at Rowan! I also would love to join the Student History Association and even possibly the History Honor Society since I was in History Club and National Honor Society back in high school.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
At Rowan I definitely want to join a sorority. I believe joining a sorority will provide me with a lot of learning opportunities and help me gain important skills, such as leadership and communication skills. In addition, I think joining a sorority will help me make connections on campus, meet a diverse amount of new people, and give me long-lasting friendships!
What majors are you considering and why?
This fall I will be in the History Education (BA/MST) Program. Ever since I was a young child, I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. Teachers have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their students, and I even believe they hold the key to secure our future. This is something I long to be a part of. Additionally, I have always had a passion for learning about history, so I have a desire to pass this knowledge on to others in as well as outside the classroom.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I have toured Rowan a few times when I was in high school, and I also recently just did the virtual guided tour where you walk around campus yourself with a guide on your phone. I enjoyed it a lot, and it made me very excited to be on campus in the fall!
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
I know that transferring to a college can be scary and stressful, but just try and stay as positive as possible! The first couple weeks I realized I wanted to transfer, I won’t lie — I felt overwhelmed and not sure where to begin. However, I took my time and made sure to get as much information as possible so I could make a decision that would help me reach every one of my goals.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I love how many opportunities Rowan has for its students as well as their class sizes. I believe that smaller class sizes will give the professor the opportunity to know me as an individual and not just a student, which I find very important. Also, I am really excited that they offer a master’s program for the history education program that I am in!
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Student photos courtesy of: Kendra Hahn
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Meet incoming transfer student and Advertising major Jess Battistelli from Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County). Jess is a transfer from Rowan College of South Jersey and is a first-generation college student. She shares more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan and what she wants to get involved in on campus.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I’m looking forward to getting involved with finding internships and meeting other people in the advertising and marketing industry.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
I’m currently in NSLS [National Society of Leadership and Success] and Phi Theta Kappa that I will continue to work hard for and utilize through college!
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’m hoping to narrow down the exact job I want in life in the advertising field, since it is so broad. I’d like to gain more information on the topics and take classes that relate to my field in hope to find what interests me most.
What major(s) are you considering and why?
Advertising and possibly a minor in marketing. This field is on the rise especially for social media, and I like the idea of change and different topics and people everyday rather then an office desk.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Not yet, but I am planning to attend orientation in June!
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Choose what makes you happiest and what is best for you in the long run!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I like how involved they are in each field and how they have so many different options for helping decide what is best and the atmosphere of the campus.
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today we feature Victoria Collinsworth, a first-generation sophomore who studies Chemical Engineering. Vic is from Mantua, NJ (Gloucester County). How did your love of video games start? When I was younger, my brother used to play on his Gameboy a lot, and I would watch. As we grew up, I started loving games more and […]
Brittany learned about Rowan’s graduate program at her prior institution, Montclair University. The program was appealing to her because of the size of Rowan’s residential life department and the benefits that came with the hands-on experience Rowan offers their grads.
Brittany describes it as “a two-year program that develops graduate students working in academic and student affairs. We are tasked to foster diversity and inclusion within the residence halls by supporting students and their identity. Our goal is to learn how to make universities a better place in the future.”
Currently, Brittany is the Resident Director of Mimosa Hall, a first-year student residence hall on campus. Her job is to oversee the administrative/logistical process of the residence hall and to manage a staff of resident assistants.
“The best way to describe my job is that I assist the RA’s who assist the residents. I make sure my staff has all the right skills and resources to help our students,” she says.
When asked about the most rewarding part of her job, Brittany replies, “Seeing the transformation in each RA from the beginning of the semester to the end. I love watching my staff grow and help them to improve from their mistakes. It’s so nice to see how each RA makes the job unique to them.”
Brittany has had influential mentors throughout her Rowan experience.
“Catie Baxter, who was my direct supervisor and area coordinator, really helped me when I first got here. I felt so tiny but she made me come out of my shell and helped me realize I could do it.”
She also talks about the impact her Student Development professor had on her. “Dr. Wright’Mair helped me to get out of my comfort zone and think outside of the box. I learned how to really think critically in that class. Dr. Wright’Mair challenged me to the professional I want to be. “
Brittany shared how it feels to be a Latina woman achieving her master’s degree. “It feels incredible. I’m proud to be Latina. I wake up every morning, look at my skin and hair, and am thankful that I have it; I think that goes back to my family and how I was raised.
“Being a part of a minority community does come with personal struggles, but with that comes learning to work with integrity and caring about others. Not many Latina women have a master’s degree, but I am looking forward to being a part of the small percentage that will work to make sure there are more women like us in the future,” she explains.
Brittany is writing her thesis on the Latina student experience with a sense of belonging.
After graduation, Brittany wants to continue her career in residential life in a professional position. “I’m currently interviewing for positions and can’t wait to take everything I’ve learned into action and practice.”
When asked to give advice to students who want to enter the field of higher education, Brittany says, “Remember your first leadership position and how amazing it was — that experience brought you to this point. Remember that sometimes we have to unlearn to learn, and live in every moment.”
“It’s a cliché to say, but you understand history so you don’t repeat it,” says Timothy Dewysockie, a Rowan Global M.A. in History student. Graduates with a master’s degree in history have the opportunity to position themselves in roles across a variety of fields, including educators, museum curators or archivists.
Today we welcome incoming first year student Alyssa Orsini who will commute from Westville, NJ (Gloucester County). Alyssa will begin to study Molecular and Cellular Biology in the fall and currently attends Gloucester County Institute of Technology (GCIT). Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? While […]
Today, we speak to Public Relations & Advertising double major Madison Sweet! Madison is a transfer student from Raritan Valley Community College and is from Bridgewater, NJ (Somerset County). She shares with us what a typical day at is like for her and how she transitioned into Rowan.
What is a typical Rowan day for you?
I work at Financial Aid in the mornings and afternoons and then I return home to join my Zoom classes. After that, I cook myself dinner or I will treat myself and order out (sushi always). After my work load is done, I love spending quality time with my friends, my boyfriend, and my Big in my sorority. Some nights, I like to go out to Landmark or Chickie’s & Pete’s for a drink with my friends as well (following COVID procedures, of course).
Could you share with us one moment during your time at Rowan that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right major for you?
The relations that I have built with my professors have made me love my major even more. I am super comfortable with them and love doing my work. The moment I knew I was in the right major was my accomplishment in making the Dean’s List back to back. I struggled with school growing up, and now I have a 3.7 GPA that I am super proud of, it would have not been possible without the Communication Profs.
Could you tell us a little bit about your transition into Rowan as an incoming student? Were you nervous? Excited? Stressed? What people, programs or things helped to make your transition smooth?
I felt all the nerves. Since I was in community college before, I was super eager to start a new chapter of my life away from home to learn who I am as a person on my own. I was super excited to start my classes but worried I wouldn’t make any friends. But Rowan’s students and profs are the nicest people I have ever met. Class was never boring. Joining my sorority, Alpha Epsilon Phi, also had a huge impact on my social life. Without this org, I wouldn’t have all of the friends that I do, today.
Madison hanging out with friends outside the Engineering building.
What are your professional goals?
Currently I am not sure what I want to do for a job after college. I would love to work in the social media field for a big company if possible.
How has Rowan helped to support you with your professional goals?
My profs have always been very supportive toward me, they are very understanding and are always willing to help if you need it, which was very nice and comforting. If I was ever confused they would help me with an assignment if needed. My sorority has always encouraged us to prioritize school work first to make sure that we stayed on top of our grades. My profs and advisor always let us know about potential Internships as well.
Meet incoming transfer Fabrizio Galindo, who will live on campus in the fall. Fabrizio is a first generation college student and an aspiring Biological Sciences major from Whiting, NJ (Ocean County) transferring from Stockton University.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I look forward to growing as a person while achieving my academic goals and succeeding at all the dreams I set my mind to.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
Most of my time I spend studying online. I think I would like to try an Honor society and develop my hobbies with them. I found that to be a lot more ideal.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I found out that Rowan’s science department is among the best ones in NJ. I feel that involving myself in Physics and Math clubs would be a set of new skills I will like to grow.
What majors are you considering and why?
Biology, Biophysics and physics. I have always wanted to study sciences and these are the best sciences to take if you like particles.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I have not done so due to Covid. I would like to go to Rowan’s Church and the science building I’m also curious about the Engineering building, I heard they have a pretty good signal.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Please look at all of your opportunities, you have no idea what you are going to miss on if you don’t check Rowan out.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
Other than Dr. Ali A. Houshmand having graduated in mathematics, I liked the University’s private scholarships and the Honors concentration.
Meet incoming transfer student and Biological Sciences major Malin Barnes. Malin is a transfer from Eastern New Mexico University and is originally from Abilene, Texas. He shares more about what he’s looking forward to and why he chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
Advancing my academic career and exploring the music culture on campus.
Why Rowan?
I was stationed in New Jersey from Texas. Rowan seemed to be the best fit for transferring my credits to, and the programs seems very credible and comprehensive.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
Symphonic band/pep band and Greek life.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
If possible, I’d like to explore more marine-based skills and explore all the benefits of living in a coastal state.
What major are you considering and why?
Biological Science. I want to work towards a master’s of marine biology to pursue a career in coral reef conservation and restoration.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I did do a private guided tour of the campus. It was very comprehensive and informative. Although a lot of the tour was focused on freshmen rather than a transferring student, it was fun to explore the campus as a new student would.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
If you want to focus on your career and not have a huge amount of your campus life spent on sports, Rowan is the place to go. It’s modern and up to date, and isn’t overburdened with a focus on high-level sports.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The lack of a football focus. Back home it’s all about college sports, but Rowan feels more like a school focused on education.
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Meet incoming transfer student Autumn Britton! Autumn, from Swedesboro, NJ (Gloucester County), is an aspiring Athletic Training major who transferred from Ellsworth Community College in Iowa. She shares more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan and what she wants to get involved in on campus.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to at Rowan University?
I am coming from a community college in Iowa, so I am personally excited to come back for the food! I am also beyond excited to finally be able to just go to a university especially one so close to home!
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
I am excited to join the Athletic Training Club as an AT major and meet everyone and hear stories.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself at Rowan? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’m hoping that I will discover that I will be a better student than I think I currently am. I am a little stressed about going from a small school with easy classes to a university, so I’m hoping I can discover new forms of study habits for myself.
What majors are you considering and why?
Athletic training. I have changed my major three times, and I truly feel like this one will stick. I did not know I had an interest in athletic training until I had surgery this past summer. I had to do physical therapy and fell in love with that but knew I strictly wanted to work with athletes, so it just fit.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended the transfer student online orientation and I plan to attend a tour at the beginning of April just to learn the campus a little more.
Do you have advice for other transfers who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Know exactly what you want in a school and do not settle.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The community and a lot of people from my high school attend Rowan so I’m hoping to see some familiar faces!
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Chris Tirri is a Rowan Global student in the master’s of science program for Urban and Regional Planning. The master’s program at Rowan is his third graduate program overall. Born and raised in the Mantua side of Sewell, NJ (Gloucester County) he currently resides off-campus in Mantua Township. His ideal career would be in historic preservation working with vernacular motel architecture and amusement parks, especially in the Wildwoods. If not in historic preservation specifically, then to work as part of a planning firm or board that specializes in adaptive reuse and helping to promote development that enhances local character and history. He shares with us his knowledge of the popularized concept for “15-minute neighborhoods” and how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted this plan on the global scale.
The concept of the 15-minute neighborhood has been part of planning vernacular for well over a decade as a way to promote walkability and density in urban areas. While theconcept may vary by city, its core goal remains the same: residents should be able to access basic life amenities—school, affordable groceries, parks, and doctors’ offices—within a 15-minute commute by foot, bike, or public transit.
Despite its established presence in planning vernacular, the 15-minute neighborhood has yet to achieve widespread application. But the coronavirus pandemic may very well change that.
In the wake of work- and stay-at-home mandates across the globe, COVID-19 hasdramatically changed the way we perceive and use our once-beloved and once-bustling cities. Our sense of place has shifted from city centers to our immediate neighborhoods, home offices, and living rooms, and in many areas, city dwellers have fled their urban enclaves to thesurrounding suburbs.
While someoutlets have declared the pandemic as the death of the city, the renewed interest in the 15-minute neighborhood promises a rebirth of the city as demand rises to redefine, redistribute, and redevelop city centers asmore liveable and as those centersgive way to neighborhood centers as more people come toprefer shopping close to home.
One of its main focal points is the overhaul of transportation methods and infrastructure. As peak-commuter traffic continues totrend downward as more jobs become permanently remote, the 15-minute neighborhood necessitatesa flexible approach to public transit choices that better accommodate local commuters who use public transit to fulfill daily needs, especially minority commuters who have historically been the victims of divisive planning decisions.
Likewise, it calls for plans that reimagine formerly vehicle-specific streetscapes as places where pedestrians and cyclists can safely coexist and where “streateries” add a newfound vibrancy to downtown life.
Cities as we have come to know them were designed largely with those peak-commuters in mind, so available amenities operated to anticipate heavy influxes in the morning and the evening. However,as William Fulton points out, amenities like restaurants, bars, parks, and other public spaces have become increasingly vital to “daily life, not just after work or on the weekends.” Thus, the 15-minute neighborhood’s focus onresilient mixed-use spaces can support a more consistent use of and demand for recreational amenities that promote health, well-being,equity, and a greater sense of community.
The 15-minute neighborhood hopes to restore the classic planning concept ofproximity: of bringing activities to individual neighborhoods rather than forcing people to relocate for those activities. Yet, it is that very sense of proximity that has inspired so many urban residents to seek refuge in private residences in the suburbs.
So how do we reconcile this paradox?
The 15-minute neighborhood seeks to reconfigure our notions of what it means to be a city, as well as the art and process of placemaking by drawing fromtactical urbanism and creating a bottom-up approach to planning that reconnects residents in socially-distant yet socially-meaning ways, localizes urban life, and redevelops cities with future resiliency in mind, as well as one that avoidspotential pitfalls that reify, rather than dismantle, systemic inequalities.
To avoid those pitfalls, such a reconfigured approach to placemaking must include an individualized approach to cities so that planning properly accounts for context- and situation-dependent differences.Community engagement is key to understanding those differences so that any implementation of the 15-minute neighborhood concept provides residents with the amenities and services they actually want or need.
Without a genuine understanding of individual needs, we risk disengaging the residents we intend to help, gentrifying neighborhoods instead of suitably improving them, and further fueling the flight to the suburbs.
Today we feature first-generation college student Giavana DiDonato, a junior Electrical and Computer Engineering major from Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County). Gi transfered here from Rowan College of Gloucester County after getting her associate degree. She tells us about being a woman in her field and her experience in the engineering classes at Rowan. Tell […]
On your busiest day, what personal, academic, non-academic, and social responsibilities are you juggling?
On my busiest day, I would be balancing my schoolwork, being a Resident Assistant (RA) and the responsibilities that come with that, having two other jobs at Trifecta Therapeutics and Pro Image Sports, while also going on a daily Zoom call with my family members at night.
What are your professional goals?
My short-term professional goals are to apply and get accepted as a second-year Resident Assistant (RA) or Assistant Resident Director (ARD) for the 2021-22 school year, as well as get an internship for the summer to hopefully turn that experience into a career. My long-term professional goals are to graduate from Rowan University and get a job in the marketing, business world to begin my career.
How are you involved on campus?
On-campus, I am a Resident Assistant (RA) in 230 Victoria, the co-president of Rowan University’s club baseball team, and a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA). Being involved in these allow me to be involved and network with fellow Profs of different majors, ages and backgrounds. The most supportive of my future goals is AMA, where I interact with fellow marketing majors and network with marketing professionals. Hopefully, by interacting with fellow marketing majors and networking with professionals, I will make connections that will help me get into my future career field.
Could you share with us one moment that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right field for you?
I felt really inspired in my Entrepreneurship class during the final project of the class when my groupmates were looking towards me to lead the project in the marketing aspects. It was a fictional company and product idea that we came up with and I put a lot of effort into the project and we got an A. It may not sound like a lot, but leading this project in the marketing aspect of our project really inspired me and made me feel confident about my chosen major.
Describe for us an experience you’ve shared with a Rowan professor in which you felt like you were working with a visionary in your field.
One professor who I really enjoy talking to and one who makes me feel supported in my goals is Dr. Michael Milovich, professor of MIS. He is extremely supportive of students’ goals and guiding them to reach them in realistic ways. In his lectures and discussions, he always relates class material to the real world and how we can use tips and tricks that he provides to us to succeed in future situations that we will all experience, such as a job interview or how to move up the ladder of a company. I love him as a professor and would highly recommend that any student take his class if they have the chance.
What advice would you give your high school self about choosing a major, campus involvement, or choosing a college/university?
If I were in high school, I would tell myself to choose a major that I really enjoy and can envision myself working in for the rest of my adult life. As far as finding the perfect college or university, do more research and look around at other schools. Choosing the right place is important so that there isn’t the chance of transferring and going back to square one.
Today we welcome incoming first year student Uche Ezeukwu. Uche will live on campus in the fall studying Exercise Science. Uche is from Hamilton, NJ (Mercer County) and attends Nottingham High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I am looking forward to meeting new […]
Today we welcome first-year student Ethan Ochital who will study Accounting and live on campus this fall. Ethan is from Livingston, NJ (Essex County) and attends Livingston High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I am looking forward to meeting new people and making […]
Today we welcome incoming Law and Justice major Will Dennery, a first year student this upcoming fall. Will will commute from Sewell, NJ (Gloucester County) and is finishing his senior year at Washington Township High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I am looking […]
Meet first year student Elijah Emmanuel, who is interested in Computer Science and will commute from Woodstown, NJ Salem County). He attends Abraham Lincoln High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? Looking forward to see the different experiences Rowan can bring to me. Also, […]
Today we welcome first year student Lizzie Schmidheiser who will begin studying Secondary Math Education in the fall. Lizzie will commute from Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County) and attends Washington Township High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I am looking forward to meeting […]
Today we feature Kayla Santiano, an out-of-state incoming first year student joining us from Burlington, Massachusetts. Kayla will study Geology and live on campus in the fall. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? Meeting new people and being in a new environment. (Being on my […]
This story is a part of the “My Favorite Class” series.
Today we speak to Jerico Mellet, a senior Biomedical Engineering major with CUGS in Training and Development and Management and Leadership. Jerico is a first-generation college student and off-campus renter from Gloucester County. He tells us about a course that left a lasting impression with him.
What is your favorite class?
My favorite class is Biophysics [now called Molecular Biophysics], which was taught by Dr. Nathaniel Nucci. The course is offered by the Physics Department.
Tell us a little about what the class is.
The class studied biological processes using Gibb’s Free Energy Equation. The equation includes entropy and enthalpy, and entropy is the part where probability comes into play. For instance, the reason our DNA gets read/copied properly is that the probability of the protein going forward and copying correctly is higher than it going backward and copying incorrectly.
The content of the class was very fascinating to me, and the way that Dr. Nucci taught the course was very effective. He didn’t spoonfeed us information; it was a lot like teaching us how to fish instead so we can independently make the discoveries and solutions.
That class was the first class that got me really interested and excited about science because before I’ve been studying math on its own like calculus, or studying biology on its own.
There was always some overlap, but the Biophysics (now it’s called Molecular Biophysics) class really connected the fields and put everything into a new perspective for me. We covered a lot of information, but not so much that it was overwhelming. He kept everything at an understandable pace.
Share with us a few details on why this class was interesting.
The class put what I knew about biology in mathematical/probabilistic terms, which changed the way I view science, biology and math.
Is there anything else that made this class impactful?
It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and how he led the class toward understanding the concepts was empowering because he wouldn’t just give us the answers, but sometimes asked us questions to have us revisit what we thought we knew.
What makes this professor great?
He gave us the tools to figure out the questions. He’d walk around checking in on everyone, always made himself available, and was encouraging.
How did this class help to support your academic or personal growth or your professional goals?
It helped me see connections between different fields of science, biology and math. As I take further classes, I grow curious about other connections such as harmony in music and how harmonious movement could be energy efficient.
What are your professional goals?
Since I was born in Peru and speak Spanish, I want to go back and start a company there to provide healthy jobs for people and that would benefit the country as a whole, and eventually bring that to other countries around the world.
Meet incoming first year student Isaiah Hymans. Isaiah is a first-generation college student who will commute from Egg Harbor (Atlantic County, NJ) and currently attends Cedar Creek High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I am looking forward to having the ability to teach […]
Today we welcome Noah Murray ,who will study on campus in the Fall. Noah is from Somers Point, NJ (Atlantic County) and goes to Ocean City High School. Noah has a passion for sports and hopes to pursue something in Physical Therapy or Sports Performance. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing […]
Shay Williams,a Rowan Global student in the M.A. in Diversity and Inclusion program, shares her experiencecoming back to school afteryears of field experience.
Rowan alumna Shay Williams did not take the traditional route of obtaining her bachelor’s degree. She took a five-year break and acquired experience in the field.
After working in social work, she decided to gain her master’s degree during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I didn’t think it was productive that everyone I worked with had the same experiences or same degree. That’s why I wanted to get my master’s in diversity — it was needed in the field. The last five years really guided me professionally, so I knew this would be something I wanted to do,” she explains.
Shay decided to obtain her master’s in diversity and inclusion at Rowan because she completed her undergraduate degree at Rowan. “A degree at Rowan has credibility. That name on a resumé really carries weight.”
A unique challenge that Shay has experienced in the program so far is the coursework. “Working full time and earning a master’s degree is a lot. Two classes were way too much, so I’m taking my time and taking one class. I plan on also taking classes in the summer to finish on time,” she says.
Shay speaks to influential faculty at Rowan. “Dr. Sullivan, director of the … program, is awesome. She is really good at igniting passion in her students. All staff at Rowan are really engaged.”
After earning her master’s degree, Shay “wants to stay in social services and maybe publish one day. There is a diversity and inclusion department office with my current employer, so I’m looking forward to seeing where the degree takes me.”
After asking Shay to offer advice for people who want to earn their master’s in diversity, she replied: “Take time for yourself after a triggering topic. Take 30 minutes to do something for yourself. Try not to internalize these heavy topics and carry them with you. Don’t let what you’re learning stop you from living your own life.”
Today we welcome Gianna LaMorges, who goes by Gigi, and will live on campus and study History in the fall. Gigi is from Wayne, NJ (Passaic County) and attends Wayne Valley High School. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? I’m looking forward to breaking out […]
Meet incoming Transfer student Emerlyn Anderson. Emerlyn is an aspiring Law & Justice Studies major from Willingboro, NJ (Burlington County) who transferred from Rowan College at Burlington County. She shares more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University?
I look forward to furthering my education and meeting amazing people.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club that you’re involved in that you’d like to continue at Rowan?
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Student photo provided by: Emerlyn Anderson
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today, we speak to Psychology major and Human Resources Management minor John Tully. John, from Ramsey, NJ (Bergen County), is a transfer student from Bergen Community College.
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
I am going to Georgetown in the fall for a master’s in Human Resource Management. After that, I hope to work in global HR management. Rowan has Psychology majors take a professions and practice class, that is where I learned about HR master’s programs and realized that is the direction I wanted to go in. Also, I was able to add a Human Resources Management minor to my program which helped me stand out from other applicants to the programs I applied to.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
HR is a crucial part of business and has major influences globally. HR has the ability to influence workplace happiness, motivation and profitability. HR also creates a safe and inclusive workplace while ensuring legal compliance. I would like to work in global HR management by designing human resource programs that are able to be applied across multiple cultures.
What inspired you to choose your major?
I was originally a bio/mathematics major and took an Intro to Psychology class to fulfill an elective requirement. I fell in love with psychology because of how diverse and interesting it is. It is an amazing field, which can be related to nearly any topic of interest. I knew after taking that class that I wanted to change my major and pursue a career in some way related to psychology.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
I read about Rowan while researching colleges to transfer to. Rowan is a well-ranked school with classes related to Industrial Organizational Psychology. That made it stand out from other schools.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
Around two hours.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
I am far enough away from home where things feel different, but still close enough where visiting friends and family is easy. I wanted a change of scenery but I didn’t want it to be too difficult to visit family.
What are a few interesting or new things (to you) about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future out-of-state students?
Mostly that South Jersey is very different than North Jersey. They’re like different states. South Jersey has a slower, more relaxed energy. Also, South Jersey is beautiful. It isn’t as crowded or urbanized as North Jersey. I always enjoy driving around and just taking in the open space and beautiful farmland.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
There is so much good food here and it is so much cheaper to dine out than in North Jersey. There are also vineyards and a brewery near by. Rowan hosts a lot of events. Plus, Philadelphia is only about 20 minutes away so you have the ability to have city life if you want.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
Rowan is a well-ranked university with an impressive psychology program taught by respected experts in their fields. Also, Rowan offers classes about Industrial Organizational Psychology, which is my area of interest.
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Photography by: Jabreeah Holmes, senior radio/TV/film major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Mimosa Hall is a traditional residence hall for predominantly freshmen, located in the center of campus, closest to the Student Center, Recreation Center, intramural fields, the library and academic buildings. Six residents have shared why they like living here. Nickvens Delva, a freshman Psychology major from Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County) says he likes how Mimosa […]
Today we speak with Arielle Gedeon, a leader at Rowan University. Arielle has served as Student Government Association (SGA) president for two consecutive years. Arielle, a senior Radio/Television/Film (RTF) major, also serves as the president of the Lambda Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She calls Galloway, NJ in Atlantic County, her hometown. In addition to being a first-generation college student, Arielle also made history as the first Black female to become the SGA President.
This story is part of a series spotlighting campus leaders during Women’s History Month.
What is your role in your organization?
As president of the Student Government Association (SGA), I serve as the face of the student body. I oversee the overall operation of SGA and maintain the accountability of the executive board. SGA serves as the voice for the student body and presents any student concerns to Rowan administrators. SGA works closely with Rowan administrators, providing advocacy and support for students. Every student pays a student government fee, which is allocated to 160+ clubs or organizations on campus to fund their budgets.
What have you learned in your role as a leader?
I have learned that serving people is a privilege. My colleagues tell me I have a “servant’s heart.” It means a lot to me because I truly find joy in serving people. I love helping people because I know what it was like to be in a place where you really need help and someone to advocate for you. Being in SGA and serving as a leader is truly a privilege. I never want to take that for granted.
What’s your favorite memory as a leader or at Rowan in general?
I have so many! When I was first elected as SGA president, I was so overcome with emotion because I was elected as the first Black female student body president. When I think about the unfortunate prejudices that Black women face in America, even in the classroom, we have to fight to be [seen] as leaders without being perceived as “bossy.” We can be assertive without being intimidating.
One of my favorite memories was getting the Rowan Wellness Fee passed and working with the Rowan administrators. Mental health is so important. As someone who has dealt with depression and anxiety throughout their life, I could finally take advantage of those resources last year. I’m really grateful for everyone who has put in the work to make the Rowan Wellness Fee possible so that students like myself can receive the help they need.
I’m in such a great place in my life by going to therapy and other initiatives offered by the Wellness Center. I know that there is a taboo in talking about it, but I am very open because it has changed my life. I remember working with Scott Woodside, Director for the Wellness Center, who was very open and available to hearing student concerns. Seeing how the student body came together showed how strong the Rowan community is.
Who inspires you and why?
My faith is really important to me as a Christian woman. I put that above anything else I do. I let it guide my steps. I find so much peace within it.
What’s the most significant barrier to women today?
Besides the institutional and systemic barriers, your mindset [can be a significant barrier.] We’re going to face a lot of barriers. It’s so easy to step down, to think small, to make ourselves “smaller,” or to make other people comfortable (especially men). I want us to think beyond that. Don’t make yourself smaller. Don’t worry about how you’re being perceived. Don’t worry about being “intimidating” or “bossy.” Don’t let your mindset keep you from achieving something great. It’s so easy to think negatively.
What advice would you give to the next generation of leaders?
You are nothing without your team. I know it sounds controversial, but it’s true. People, unfortunately, only see how it benefits themselves and say “I’m doing everything.” But it really is a team effort and you need to see beyond yourself. You have to see how other people bring so many great skillsets and ideas to the table.You should encourage your team. Be mindful of your team. It’s not just about you.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Honestly, I do not know right now. Even though I’m not 100% certain about where I’ll be in the future, I can put my trust in God’s will and I find so much comfort in that. Even though there’s so much uncertainty about tomorrow, I find so much peace in God’s will and plan for my life.
Meet Jacob Molinaro, a Chemical Engineering major with minors in both Math and Chemistry who transferred from the County College of Morris and is originally from Essex County, NJ. He is taking remote classes at Rowan from his current residence in Utah. He shares more about his decision in choosing Rowan and what he loves about South Jersey.
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
My goal is to get my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and lead research in the field of renewable energy and energy storage. My time at Rowan has provided me with the educational background and experience to be competitive as I apply to my graduate programs and indirectly inspired me to follow this career path.
As a sophomore, my department head sent me an email encouraging me to apply to an REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program in Ohio. Following his advice, I applied and was admitted to the program and discovered my passions for both research and the field of electrochemistry.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
The field of chemical engineering is extremely diverse, incorporating manufacturing, research and development and process design. Without chemical engineering, we would find many of the everyday products we use would be unavailable. I specifically would like to work in the growing field of renewable energy and energy storage, which is becoming increasingly important as we strive for more sustainable and ecologically friendly alternatives to fossil fuels.
What inspired you to choose your major?
Excellent chemistry teachers in high school (for both Honors Chemistry in 10th grade and AP Chemistry in 11th) fostered my interest for the subject, but I have always been more interested in applying chemistry to real-world problems rather than understanding the technicalities of it. Hence, I went into chemical engineering (applied chemistry).
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
At the time I applied, there were five strong chemical engineering programs in the state of New Jersey that my community college made me aware of. I applied to all of them, and upon being accepted to Rowan, I came to visit and loved it!
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
This is an amusing question. As the question is intended to be answered, it is two hours up the NJ Turnpike/Garden State Parkway to where I lived in Essex County from my apartment in Marlton. To go visit my parents in Pennsylvania is about three hours.
However, at the moment my wife and I are living in Orem, Utah while I do all of my classes remotely. My wife, Kaitlin, is a travel nurse and is supporting a hospital here in Utah. Back to New Jersey from HERE is about 35 hours of driving.
Jacob and his wife, Kaitlin, at their wedding.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
When I’m back in NJ it is nice to be close enough to my parents to go visit over the weekend and help out around the house, but far enough away that we’re not getting unexpected dinner guests every other evening while I need to be studying for an exam or my wife is getting home from a long shift at the hospital.
Here in Utah, the largest benefits are by far the accessibility of my favorite hobbies. I’m a runner, climber, mountaineer and skier; the whole Salt Lake City area is absolutely amazing for these activities. In the past two weeks I’ve been to the climbing gym, two different ski resorts, been up two mountains, and been able to run and hike in between classes.
Between my own personal travels and moving around with Kaitlin’s travel nursing, I’ve been to 49 of the 50 states, and Utah is probably tied for second with Montana among my favorite states (only second to Wyoming!). Utah residents are also doing a great job with social distancing and mask-wearing, so COVID-19 cases are low here and places like the ski resorts and climbing gyms are able to stay open and operate at reduced capacity.
What are a few interesting or new things (to you) about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future out-of-state students?
After living in the “sixth borough on NYC” in Essex County, I’ve really appreciated that South Jersey is much more rural. If it hasn’t come across yet, I’m not at all a city person and really appreciate some good nature. The accessibility to different parks and preserves throughout the Pine Barrens has been really special. There’s also a great running community, some really awesome little towns (I work as a barista in Haddonfield and love it there, for example), and a bit more of a laid back feel than you’d be used to in North Jersey.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
Parallel to 322 and off of Delsea Drive there’s a really awesome bike path that runs about seven and a half miles to Sewell. That’s a fun ride/run, and I would definitely recommend students check it out. Duffield’s Farm Market in Sewell is a great place to visit in the fall for pumpkin picking and year-round for affordable fresh produce. It’s a bit of a drive, but I love the Black Run Preserve a bit north in Evesham Township.
Closer to campus, Pitman is always worth a visit for great restaurants and a fun main street. Overall, I’d encourage any new students to just drive around and get to know both Glassboro and the surrounding towns. There’s a lot of neat stuff to be seen, regardless of whether you’re interested in getting outdoors or visiting a town.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
Of the three schools I was accepted for transfer to, Rowan was the most affordable (by a long shot!) and the most rural. I had spent two years at that point living in the extremely urban sections of northern New Jersey and was ready for a little farmland nearby!
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Header photo courtesy of: Unsplash
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today we speak to Jill Taylor, president of the Photography Club. Jill is a junior Biological Sciences major with a concentration in Environmental Sciences and minors in Environmental Engineering and Chemistry. Jill is a first-generation college student and commutes to campus from Fortescue, NJ (Cumberland County).
This story is part of a series spotlighting campus leaders during Women’s History Month.
What is your role in your organization? Briefly describe what your organization does.
I am the president and founding member of Rowan’s Photography Club, which you can join by joining our Discord. You can also find us on Instagram @rowanphotoclub. I do a little bit of everything. I do a lot of the planning and delegating between Eboard members, general members and SGA, taking notes and planning future things, trying to see what the club can do in the future. The biggest thing I do is trying to encourage people to join or participate in the club.
Photography is so universal and is for everyone. We want to cultivate the photography and model and visual arts type of scene at Rowan because there is such an interest. We didn’t want to limit the club to just photographers, we also wanted to include models and graphic designers. At general meetings, we view and vote on photos submitted for the themed photography contests we have each week. Whoever won the previous contest picks the theme for the next contest. Sometimes we critique the photos and tell the photographers what they might do better next time. We have also been trying to integrate Kahoot and Jeopardy into our meetings so that our members can learn more about photography.
We have many beginners in our club, and we try to teach them as much as we can, help them figure out what they want to do and also be as inclusive as possible. One day, we will be able to all practice photography together.
What have you learned in your role as a leader?
I have learned that assuming responsibility is not always what you think it is. We have this idea of what a leader should be, which is someone who is in charge and tells us what to do dominantly. I think leadership requires a different approach, where you say what has to be done, but also are more flexible and empathetic, especially to be an outstanding leader that someone should look up to. I’ve seen too many more male people in positions of power with no emotional aspect of leadership and have toxic masculinity and sexism. Empathy is the most important thing, you can have all the power in the world if you don’t care about the people around you, it’s not worth it.
What’s your favorite memory as a leader or at Rowan in general?
Starting the Photography Club and finding people who are just as passionate as I am is a great memory. There are people who trust me, even though I think I don’t know what I’m doing. The vibe is totally different.
Who inspires you and why?
I draw a lot of inspiration from many people and a lot of literature, but if I had to pick one person, it would be Barbara Dunkelman. She is a social media personality actor and model who pushes for empathy and a deeper understanding of each other and being a better person. She gives advice, and none of it is too serious. She discusses very serious topics, but she can throw in a terrible dad joke or keep it lighthearted.
What’s the most significant barrier to women today?
I think it’s the idea of what a woman should be. Women are often expected to be very effeminate and nurturing, and we can empower them until it comes to taking charge and having leadership roles. The characterization of women is very one-dimensional, especially in media and day-to-day conversations.
What advice would you give to the next generation of leaders?
I think you should be as compromising as you can until there is a topic where you don’t think you can yield and don’t be as open and as forthcoming with new ideas and advice from others. If there is something you refuse to budge on, don’t. Don’t put up with it. If it’s your belief, dig your heels into the ground and stand up for what you believe in, unless it has the potential to hurt other people. Hold up your boundaries, but also don’t be so closed off where you are hindering your own ideas.
As long as people are not waiting for the next person to just do something and they just do something themselves. Don’t put something off when you can do it and take charge, which is a scary leap of faith and a big jump. But if it’s something you want, just take it.
Story by: Marian Suganob, senior public relations and advertising double major and Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies, and public relations double major
Photography by: Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
Today we feature first-generation college student Eliya Bravo, a leader at Rowan University. Bravo is the founder and president of the Women of Color Alliance and vice president for both the Students For Caribbean Awareness and Rowan Universities Club Swim Team. Bravo is also the public relations rep for the United Latinos Association and a […]
Today we feature Shivani Shah, a leader at Rowan University. Shivani is cofounder of South Asian Students Association (SASA) and currently serves as its copresident. Shivani is a junior, first-generation college student from Egg Harbor Township, NJ (Atlantic County). She majors in Biochemistry and has a minor in Psychology. This story is part of a […]
Today we speak to Chris Acevedo, president of Rowan’s Omicron Chapter of the Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Chris is a sophomore Management Information Systems major from Winslow, NJ (Camden County). Chris lives off-campus and is a first-generation college student. Chris is also a student veteran. Chris tells us about Lambda Theta Phi’s community service work they have done recently.
Can you tell me about the community service Lambda Theta Phi is doing?
Since Rowan is located in Glassboro, we like to focus a lot of our community service on either Camden or Atlantic City, because those cities need help. There are many people who need help in those cities, and we want to help as many people as we can. We collaborate with other chapters such as the chapters at Rutgers – Camden, Temple and Stockton. S
Some of the community services we have done include feeding and giving away items to homeless people in Philadelphia, Camden, and Atlantic City. Sometimes we do smaller engagements such as clean-ups of towns and people’s backyards, but we try to do big events serving 150 families or more. We try to help as many people as we can. Recently we have held four community outreach events. Near Thanksgiving, we gave away Thanksgiving baskets that consisted of items such as turkey, cornbread, cranberry sauce, and other traditional Thanksgiving foods. We were able to drive food to some families as well.
Near the holidays, we had a holiday-themed event that helped around 300 families. We had a brother dress up as Santa Claus and we gave away toys donated by the Heart of Camden and Total Turf, as well as hats, coats, and gloves. We did a similar event in January, handing out hats, coats, gloves, scarves, and toys. We have also done an event where we walked around Walter Rand in Camden, giving away hand warmers, gloves, and other winter items.
Chris (second from left) and some of his brothers from other South Jersey and Pennsylvania chapters pose at a community service event they put on together.
Why is the Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity so focused on community service?
The root of our organization is based on service. Our principles and ideals emphasize catering to the communities that many of us come from. As we progress in our endeavors as individuals and as a collective, we always aim to uplift the very community that has raised us.
What would you say the benefits of being involved in Greek life are?
Greek life advances networking. There are many reasons that people pursue Greek life; i.e. a sense of family/belonging, making friends. But the biggest positive is networking. You meet people from all walks of life and all different ages. Sometimes you’re able to meet people who have similar interests and can offer guidance, or you can meet someone that’s gone down a different path and offers different perspectives on life. Whatever your reason for joining a Greek organization, you are always going to meet someone new.
What else does the Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity focus on besides community service?
Lambda Theta Phi is big on community service but it isn’t our only task. We are big on the connection / social aspect. We enjoy the presence of our brothers making a lot of bonding events, whether it’s our chapter here at Rowan or any other schools. Connecting with other Greek organizations makes your networking bigger and more relationships that last forever.
Today, we speak to transfer student Jean Han. Jean is a Chemical Engineering major from Fort Lee, NJ (Bergen County) who transferred from Bergen Community College. She shares with us why she chose Rowan and tells us what she likes about South Jersey.
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
I would like to work in the medical device field or within biotechnology. My major allows me to be qualified for these positions as an engineer. I’ve received a lot of professional advice from my professors and academic advice from my peers.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
I think chemical engineering is a broad field that allows various career paths, all of which are pretty innovating. I would like to contribute to society by improving upon medical technology.
What inspired you to choose your major?
I really enjoyed my high school calculus/chemistry classes and wanted to choose a major that would have me take more courses in both subjects.
Jean working in the lab.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
I Googled top engineering schools, and Rowan popped up as one of them for undergrad.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
About two hours, an hour and 45 minutes on a good day.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
I’m not distracted by my usual friends or family members. There are less places here to go to.
What are a few interesting or new things (to you) about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future North Jersey students?
South Jersey seems quieter and less busy than North Jersey. It would be a nice area to chill in without too much distraction for someone who is looking for that kind of environment.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
I like going into Pitman. It’s a quaint area with some cafes and restaurants to eat at. I would also recommend going into Philly, of course.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
Rowan was the most affordable option for me. I also had a bad impression of other in-state schools.
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Photography by: Joe Gentempo, senior art major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today we speak to Richard Shinnick, a senior transfer student from Ramapo College of New Jersey who majors in Computing and Informatics. Richard is an on-campus resident originally from Allendale, NJ (Bergen County).
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
My professional goals include making websites and apps that will impact our society.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
Computers affect everyone. I would like to develop websites/apps.
What inspired you to choose your major?
I love computers, which inspired me to choose my major.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
A family member, who is an alum of Rowan, recommended Rowan to me.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
My trip “home” to North jersey is two hours.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
A benefit to living farther from home is gaining a greater sense of independence.
What are a few interesting or new things about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future students that are not from the area?
People say pork roll instead of Taylor ham, and it bothers me.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
Atlantic City is close by, and I like to visit sometimes.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
They have a great computer science program, and a great computing and informatics program.
Story and photos by: Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
“This major supports my professional goal of being a teacher and continuing to give back to my community and my country. I am excited to see where my dual major takes me,” says junior Frank Gurcsik, a History and Education major from Gloucester County. “My major has been helping me to prepare and become an educator […]
Today we feature Ganesh Chandrasekaran, a Rowan Global Computer Science student from Marlton, NJ (Burlington County). Ganesh tells us about working toward his second master’s degree in Computer Science at Rowan.
Today we feature Vanessa Livingstone, a leader at Rowan University. Vanessa is the president of the Anthony J. Fulginiti Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). She is a senior, first-generation college student from Palmyra, NJ (Burlington County) who double majors in Public Relations and Advertising. This story is part of a […]
Today we speak to Arianna Granda, a first-year Music Education major with a Vocal Concentration. Arianna is from Rockaway, NJ (Morris County) and lives on campus.
How is your first year at Rowan so far? It’s definitely been a weird transition, especially going into online school. But I think overall Rowan has handled it really well, especially the music department, they’re doing everything they can really to give us the closest thing that they can to performances and they’re still pushing us to our full potential, despite the circumstances. They’ve been very understanding, yet still pushing us to do the best we can.
This past winter, we had a virtual choir concert, so we recorded it in Pfleeger Hall, which is the bigger concert hall, and we were six feet apart with masks. It was recorded professionally and then it was live-streamed about a month later, so it was really cool that despite not being able to have an in-person performance, we still were able to have a product to showcase all our work throughout the semester.
I also was involved in the theatre community. I was in the cabaret so that was really fun because it was similar where they grouped us with who we had the same voice part as and who we saw every day. We did our own individual numbers and put it together, it looks really cool because they had people edit it. It was a similar event, where it was live-streamed so it was really cool that like despite everything we’re still having some sort of sense of normalcy.
What would you tell a future student who is interested in going to Rowan?
I would say that I really like Rowan, and if you’re looking for small class sizes and an intimate relationship with your faculty where you can ask them questions during class and even have a personal relationship with them, to an extent, where you can email them if you have a question, then this is the place for you.
One thing that I found at Rowan that was kind of rare amongst other schools I was looking at is that the faculty really care about all of their students and their personal needs. I shadowed at Rowan my junior year of high school, and then I participated in a summer camp at Rowan, and when I came back for my audition, the faculty I met remembered me. They didn’t just remember my face and name, they remembered what I was like, my personality, and some things we spoke about when I last saw them. The rest of the faculty and everyone else I’ve met have been the same way, with the same demeanor of being really friendly and open and personable to your needs as a student.
Can you tell me about the shadowing opportunity you had, and the summer camp you attended at Rowan?
I shadowed at Rowan in my junior year of high school, and I met other people who wanted to major in music. I met Dr. Christopher Thomas, the head of the voice faculty, and we all discussed our voice parts and other information. When I came here, I saw posters on the wall for the Rowan summer music camps. I participated in the camp, and I didn’t know anybody. I remember I was paired with a random roommate. When I came to the program on the first day, I made so many friends. I knew everyone’s name by the end of the first day. The program was so welcoming.
Many of the people there had been participating in the program for years, and the faculty of the program was mostly alumni. I felt out of place until we started doing all these icebreakers and it amplified that same sense of community that I felt when I came to Rowan and shadowed, seeing all these alumni come back and being so excited to work with these kids at the summer camp. At the camp, in such a short time you get so much accomplished, and you learn so much, and most of the camp is rehearsals, but in those rehearsals, they’re fast-paced but you’re learning so much and you’re learning your parts and I learned about a lot about who I was as a musician individually while being in that intensive environment.
It was really nice to also have that sense of community, which made it a really fun experience, but also one that challenged me and helped me as a musician.
Meet Gianna Venturini, a Secondary Education and History major and Psychology minor. Gianna is a transfer student from Monmouth University but is originally from Rockaway, NJ (Morris County). She shares with us why she chose her major and why she chose Rowan!
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan (your program, faculty, etc.) helping to support you in those goals?
I am currently a senior in the College of Education studying to become a high school teacher. The COE has provided me with so many opportunities to be hands-on in real classrooms, and has continued to support me as I do my clinical practice this semester!
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
I truly believe that becoming a teacher is one of the most important and impactful career fields that a person can get into. As teachers, we are responsible for educating and cultivating the next generation of thinkers and leaders. There is nothing I want more than to inspire and encourage my students to pursue their passions and be there to support them during such an important phase of their lives.
What inspired you to choose your major?
I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher; I was one of the few kids who always loved going to school and had a true love for learning. When I got to high school, I had a really difficult time struggling with mental health issues and I never felt like I had a true support system in a teacher or counselor at the school.
Once I graduated, I knew that I wanted to become the teacher I had needed at such a difficult point in my life, and that is my number one priority as a future educator.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
Many people from my high school had gone to Rowan or were planning to after graduation! I also have a family member who attended Rowan.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
The trip home takes me about two hours — a very long, straight and boring drive up the NJ Turnpike!
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
I think that two hours is the perfect distance because it’s far enough away that I feel like I am living my own life, but close enough and still in NJ so that I can visit my friends and family for the weekend when I want to go home!
What are a few interesting or new things (to you) about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future out-of-state students?
Prior to coming to Rowan, I had never been to Philadelphia and I had no idea how close it was to campus! Back home, we always refer to New York as “the city” but when I transferred, I had to get used to people calling Philly “the city.” My best friend and I are actually planning on living in Philly after graduation!
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
As I said before, I love how close Rowan is to Philadelphia, and my friends and I often like to visit the city. As a history major, I love exploring the rich culture and historical significance that Philadelphia holds! There are also so many amazing restaurants and bars to check out, as well as fun shops and public park spaces.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
The first time I visited and toured Rowan’s campus, I instantly felt at home and knew I wanted to spend the rest of my college career here. I had such a terrible freshman year, and I was desperately in need of a fresh start. That’s exactly the opportunity I saw at Rowan!
Story by: Bianca Torres, Senior music industry major
Header photo courtesy of: Unsplash
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today, we speak to transfer student Paul Romeo! Paul is a Radio/TV/Film major from Cedar Grove, NJ (Essex County) who transferred from Southern New Hampshire University. He shares with us why he chose Rowan and gives advice to out-of-state students.
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
My professional goals are to work toward being a filmographer or cinematographer for a major TV or movie production company. Rowan has provided me with resources to work towards this — of course the pandemic has made this difficult and caused many issues in pursuing this.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
My field impacts the world in many ways, both steering and being steered by culture of the world around us. We are able to provide entertainment and also highlight issues in the world in a way that can not be silenced. We are able to bring light to the darkness and bring forth the newest important things.
What inspired you to choose your major?
Honestly it was just a lot of realizing myself and understanding that I do not enjoy majors that are not creative. The major I had before was a programming major, and I did not succeed in it at all.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
I looked at it originally before I decided on my previous university. My friend attended and told me how much he enjoyed it so I decided to give it a try. When I did, I finally fell in love with a campus, for the first time I’ve ever felt at home somewhere.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
My drive is about two hours up to home.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
My parents aren’t able to show up when they randomly want to, haha. It’s nice to be able to feel like I have to be there for myself. If I don’t cook, I don’t eat, if I don’t shower, no one is going to tell me to, so it forces me to be more independent.
What are a few interesting or new things (to you) about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future out-of-state students?
Delsea Drive-In is something that’s really cool! Also just the open space and flatness of South Jersey is so nice compared to North Jersey, biking is great in the area.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
The food around campus is great, there are so many unique and interesting places to eat at.
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
It felt right. That’s it, there was a feeling I had that both terrified me and made me feel like it would challenge me to be a new person, and I’d say it’s done a good job at that.
Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Today we feature Michelle Martinez, a Rowan Global student pursuing her master’s degree in business administration (MBA). Michelle is the inaugural Rohrer College of BusinessMBAFellow in Innovation and Impact. In this selective role, she’ll leverage her professional experience to normalize financial literacy and advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the finance industry.
Learn more about Michelle, her experience as an MBA Fellow thus far and what responsible leadership means to her.
From a very young age Michelle has always been determined to change a corner of the world in some meaningful way. Initially, she wanted to explore new underwater worlds as a marine biologist. Over the years, her interest evolved; however, she never lost her interest in math. During her last semester in high school she took a personal finance course and an advanced placement course in macroeconomics. From there, she was inspired to affect the world through the lens of finance.
Like many millennials, Michelle’s professional journey began at the onset of the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis. In the aftermath of the recession, she channeled her efforts into helping people interpret and overcome their financial challenges. At the time, Michelle worked for Cherry Hill, NJ-based Commerce Bank.
“Commerce Bank was a place where customer service and attention to detail was highly important. During that time I saw a lot of people struggling to meet their financial needs. I floated around to different branches in different positions consulting clients on basic financial concepts such as budgeting and building savings, managing debt and using credit. The individuals whose stories stick with me the most are the ones I couldn’t help. These were the people who came to me trying to try and figure a way out of their expensive payday loans. I wanted to be able to do more for them, but I couldn’t,” Michelle says.
After graduating from La Salle University with dual degrees in Marketing and Management Leadership, Michelle went on to work as an investment specialist for one of the world’s largest mutual fund distributors, Vanguard Marketing Corp. There she helped clients with investment operations, portfolio management, financial planning and advisory services. She later went on to work at Morgan Stanley, where she helped direct and lead client/advisor support activities for a team of financial advisors handling several million dollars in assets under management.
It was soon after her experience working with ultra-high net worth clients that Michelle began to witness firsthand the widening financial capabilities that marked her experiences as a financial professional.
“As I progressed professionally, I had begun to more clearly understand the role financial institutions played in easing the economic conditions that perpetuated the growing wealth divide. What I come to realize is that one of the many critical components of building wealth is guaranteeing access to certain resources in a self-sustaining manner. It’s not about guaranteeing specific outcomes,” Michelle says.
“Many people fail to grasp how dependent our financial systems are to one another. A vibrant economy is one that works for everyone. When certain pockets of people are excluded from these systems, we create a room for scarcity and codependency.
“Not everyone gets a grand for Christmas from grandpa. Not every kid gets a car for their 16th birthday. Not having to choose between getting an education or holding down a job is a privilege. The idea that people should pull themselves up by their bootstraps completely ignores the fact that wealth is not built alone. It takes an orchestra of events,” Michelle adds.
Michelle stresses that financial institutions must proactively seek out ways to leverage cross-sector relationships in order to help solve growing social issues.
“With the ushering in of a more democratized financial services sector, there is an overwhelming opportunity to reorient wealth management to be more inclusive of the burgeoning potential of outcome-driven, minority-owned enterprises. This goes beyond philanthropy. Too often, portfolio managers lend their success to the securitization of distressed assets in already at-risk communities.
“The collateral consequences of these traditional investing models perpetuate a long legacy of racism and redlining,” she explains.
As a Rohrer MBA Fellow in Innovation and Impact, Michelle is on a mission to help disrupt this process. Innovations and Impact Fellows are committed to enhancing both firm and industry performance through the development and implementation of practices that maximize opportunity while minimizing the negative impacts operations have on the environment, people and economic systems.
The MBA Fellowship in Innovation and Impact offers three major areas of focus: Advocacy, Engagement and Research. Fellows will further participate in on-campus initiatives that further shared community connections and shape the culture in which students thrive.
During her time as a fellow, Michelle will focus on conducting advocacy and engagement as it relates to financial literacy and helping to advocate for greater financial inclusion within the finance industry through community development.
Michelle adds: “If there’s anything we have to take away from the last year dealing with the fallout of COVID-19 and the impact on vulnerable communities; it’s that healing is not linear. We take the momentum of incredible strides in history and we think our work is done. Except, atrophy starts to set in immediately after. And so, our work must continue.
“Organizations have to start digging deeper to find shared values and work towards practices that strengthen our ecosystems as a whole. Guaranteeing opportunities is not the same as guaranteeing outcomes!
“It’s about creating an enabling environment for all individuals to work hard, pursue life and exercise their civic duties. Is that not the American dream?” she says. “This is what responsible leadership means to me.”
In lending her experience to this growing social challenge, Michelle says she’s optimistic we can advance the equity and economic prospects of low-income Americans.
Michelle resides in South Jersey and is the proud wife, mother and dog mom of two active goldendoodles. Follow Michelle’s journey on LinkedIn!
Meet #Rowan2025 student Bobby Wietecha! Bobby is an incoming freshman Athletic Training major from Aberdeen, NJ (Monmouth County). He shares what sports he wants to continue in college and why he chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
Meeting new people and learning new things.
What is one hobby, activity, sport, or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Weightlifting, basketball, and track and field.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport, or club?
I want to better myself academically and physically by learning and continuing to work out and participate in sports.
What majors are you considering and why?
Athletic Training.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Yes, I toured and my sister is an Engineering student currently, so I have visited her and I was impressed by the campus.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Find something you like that interests you that you can build a career around.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The campus and the master’s program in Athletic Training.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Jared Mattio! Jared is an incoming freshman Communication Studies and Radio/TV/Film major from Laurel Springs, NJ (Camden County). He shares what he’s looking forward to coming to college and why he chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
Meeting new people with the same interests.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Live-streaming school events!
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport, or club?
Meet #Rowan2025 student Shawn Lorenzo Sanders! Shawn is an incoming freshman, first-generation college student from Voorhees, NJ (Camden County). He shares what he’s thinking of pursuing and what he’s looking forward to at Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
Getting a great education!
What is one hobby, activity, sport, or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Bodybuilding, getting into a Hispanic fraternity, and starting a business club.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I would want to join a fraternity, expand my social circle, and join a health, fitness and nutrition club.
Today we feature Alayna Harrison, a leader at Rowan University. Alayna is the Vice President of Women of Color Alliance and the Women’s Field Hockey Club. She’s a senior, first-generation college student from Lindenwold, NJ (Camden County). Alayna majors in Writing Arts with a specialization in creative writing and a minor in Elementary Education. She […]
Meet Pharaoh Freer, a Music Industry major from Jamesburg, NJ (Middlesex County). Read his first-person perspective on the lessons he’s learned on his journey to becoming a Rowan Prof. From discovering how to hone in on your passions to understanding the power of your brand, Pharaoh shares the wisdom of leading a life with great ambitions, talent and vision.
When building an empire, you will go through many obstacles. Life is constructed of multiple points and times you learn and make a mental note so that it won’t happen again.
When I was in middle school, I wasn’t the best kid. This age was my lesson stage. I was getting in trouble, disrupting class. It never occurred to me the image I was setting out for my brand, and when I say brand I mainly mean my name. In your adolescent days, you aren’t aware of the meaning of your name and how much power it has.
After middle school, I went to a technical school and made better decisions, but there were still a few things I had to “freshen up” on. High school was trial and error. I didn’t take it seriously. I was doing music but not seriously, very unconscious of my actions. All of my friends left me. When I graduated, I hadn’t quite understood what I wanted to do.
What did I love? Music was something I was always around but never started to take it seriously. My dad introduced it to me early when he started his gospel group. “Heaven Sent” is the group name I helped them [create]. When they went to the studio, I would play around on the mic. So, maybe I fell in love with the way I sounded on the mic. Once I found out I wanted to pursue music as my career, that’s when I found out what person I wanted to be.
After not doing well at community college, I went to an audio engineering school in Philadelphia. [I] shadowed a well-known producer … who has worked with B.o.B, Christina Aguilera, and M.G.K. I passed with flying colors there. It was the first time I maintained a 3.3 GPA.
After this program, I transferred to Rowan and [chose] my major: Music Industry. My dad went here, so this was always a school in mind. When he went back in the day, he came here for soccer on a full ride. But that wasn’t my main reason. I got accepted to Full Sail University in Florida, but I felt like it was too far from home, and I needed to master my area before venturing off.
Rowan gave me a chance to STRIVE. When my back was against the wall, this was the school that gave me that second chance to strengthen my empire, which is my name. When you think of yourself as a business or an entity, you will try your hardest to not tarnish your business, which is your name.
I never thought I would ASPIRE to these heights, but it would have been very hard [without] the helping hand of big brother Rowan.
If you’re a transfer student coming here or someone discouraged to apply, don’t hesitate: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
Today we speak with Kaan Aktas, a senior transfer student from Bergen Community College who majors in History and Subject Matter Education. Kaan, a remote student from Fairview, NJ (Bergen County), is a first-generation college student.
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
My professional goals are to be the instructor of a history classroom. Rowan, especially my advisor, has done a great job in setting me up for my goals by creating benchmarks for my classes and exams where I can keep track of and complete.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
My field impacts the world by educating the future. I strongly believe that our students are the future of not just our country, but the future of the world. The work and effort you put into a classroom can completely benefit and alter the student’s way of learning for the future.
What inspired you to choose your major?
My passion for history has always been present. Since elementary and middle school I would find the subject interesting. History isn’t just about memorizing dates and people, but how those dates and people have impacted our current society and so forth.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
I became aware of Rowan by doing some online research of the top best colleges in New Jersey. I initially fell in love with Rowan while on a tour of the school. The scenery is beautiful, and class sizes are perfectly arranged.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
My trip “home” to North jersey is approximately an hour and a half.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
The benefit of living far from home is the college experience you could not have gotten anywhere else. Also, the friendships I have built and experiences I have had are one of a kind.
What are a few interesting or new things about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future students that are not from the area?
In every corner, there are lots of spots to eat on campus! The wide variety of food, not just located inside of the dining hall, gives students lots of choices for some grub!
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
Some attractions just off campus include many parks where you can take a stroll, or even study!
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
I transferred to Rowan University because of many factors. The professors are truly great! They work with you with your classes. Class sizes were also an important factor in why I chose to enroll. Unlike other universities in New Jersey, you are not put into a big lecture hall with a hundred other students where the professor has a lot more to manage.
Story by: Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos submitted by: Kaan Aktas, senior history and subject matter education double major
Header photo by: Anthony Raisley, senior history major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
My typical Rowan day, since classes became primarily virtual, starts with breakfast and checking emails and the early news. I sign into my classes, which are all on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and start my day. After morning classes are through, I usually drive to the Rowan campus to grab lunch.
Being on campus is like a second home for me and I miss the environment, so I treat myself twice a week by driving to campus for lunch. I was fortunate enough to have my 2020 summer internship at Lockheed Martin extended through the entire fall semester, so I work virtually from my home on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Could you share with us one moment during your time at Rowan that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right major for you?
At Rowan, I decided to major in Computing & Informatics, as well as minor in Business Administration. When I took Applied Database Technologies with Professor Arafat Qureshi during my first semester at Rowan, I immediately wanted to know more about coding, the organization and analysis of large quantities of data, and how it all applied to the business world. As I continued to take additional classes in my major, I felt confident that Computing & Informatics was the right major for me, and it definitely opened the door for me to my internship.
Could you tell us a little bit about your transition into Rowan as an incoming student?
I began my college career at Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC). I knew I wanted to transfer to Rowan University because I wanted to explore a larger campus environment and join the Rowan University community. RCBC has a wonderful partnership with Rowan University, with many opportunities, and the transition from RCBC to Rowan was pretty smooth. I was really nervous and excited to transition from community college to a four-year college. It took me a while to get used to the larger campus, but now I’m very comfortable there and the Glassboro campus is like a second home to me.
What are your professional goals?
My professional goal is to land a full-time position at Lockheed Martin since I’ve been so happy with my ongoing internship, and I now better understand all the opportunities available for someone with a Computing & Informatics degree. I hope to work in the future with good, talented people to solve complex real-world problems.
How has Rowan helped to support you with your professional goals?
Rowan University has helped me so much with almost everything. My advisors were very supportive and gave me the best recommendations for choosing classes. All my professors have challenged me and helped prepare me for the unexpected in the workforce.
The Office of Career Advancement at Rowan has also helped me so much with networking, mock interviews and tips on nailing an interview. I feel like I made the best decision to attend Rowan University and call this school a second home. I’m currently working at Lockheed Martin as a Data Analysis/Project Management intern supporting the Global Supply Chain Competitive Intelligence Team. My internship has been extended four times, and I will now be transitioning to new tasks that will assist in developing additional skillsets. I would not be where I am today without the education and support I have received from Rowan University and many members of the faculty and staff.
I have enjoyed so many of my classes, such as Management Information Systems with Dr. Berrin Guner, and Organizational Behavior with Dr. Richard Jonsen. I would like to give a special “thank you” to Professor Bridget Temme-Soifer for helping me with Statistical Analysis and giving me the tools to see how data works in the real world.
I also want to give a special “thank you” to Chiara, my Academic Success Advisor from the Academic Success Center, for helping me so much throughout my college experience. Finally, I’d like to thank my mother for always believing in me and for all the sacrifices she made over the years to help me become the person I am today. Overall, I feel that I made the best decision in choosing my major and minor, so now I feel confident about my future.
Story by: Rachel Rumsby,sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos by: Jabreeah Holmes, senior radio, television and film major
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Jocelyn Reuben, a junior transfer student from Burlington Township, is an Athletic Training major with a minor in Spanish. She is very involved on campus and is a part of Improfs, Black Cultural League, and the Athletic Training Club. Here is a little bit about her Rowan experience thus far!
Tell us about one club, organization, or group of friends that make you feel like Rowan is home.
My friends Keyanna Meade, Keianna Williams, Alex Brown, Rob Brown, Reena Patel and Liam O’Brien have made me feel like Rowan has been home since the day I step foot on campus. Keyanna Meade is my childhood best friend who transferred here; meanwhile, I met my other friends through being an RA and Rowan’s ASPIRE Leadership Development Program. They all inspire me to get out of my comfort zone and try new things. Furthermore, their dedication to education makes me work harder so we can thrive together. They have each been a part of the reason I’m glad I came to Rowan.
Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you?
Last year, during Black History Month, Black Cultural League hosted a Speakeasy Night with [Rowan After Hours]. It was the most amazing event I had ever been to on campus. The Pit transformed into the well-known “Cotton Club” and even required a password to get in. Once inside, host, Treasure Cary was dressed perfectly to fit the 1920s theme and she looked amazing. The event had an open mic, a live jazz band, card games, and a raffle. It was nice to see Black talent showcased and celebrated.
I was debating going on stage because I was nervous and my phone battery was on 5% (all my poems were on my phone). This girl next to me gave me her charger without asking questions and once I had at least 20% I mustered up the courage to perform an original poem of mine and was met with so much love and support from the audience and the people who organized the event. I gave her the charger right back and thanked her. She said it was no problem and even complimented my poem. I had only wished I dressed up for the occasion.
What’s your favorite thing about one typical day at Rowan for you?
Every day at Rowan you can meet someone or learn something new. There is always an opportunity on campus to network with other students and even faculty, and I learn new things in and out of the classroom setting at Rowan.
What is one thing about Rowan that was a happy surprise for you?
A happy surprise for me was definitely the Student Mental Health Conference. Mental Health is such an important issue/topic, it’s good of Rowan to allow students to share their stories and talk about them openly in a safe environment. I especially like that it was mostly student-led. “For students by students.” I had the pleasure of presenting at the conference two years in a row.
Describe for us an experience you’ve shared with a professor or staff member in which you felt like they truly cared about your wellbeing.
Mrs. Laurie Dwyer, my academic advisor, is amazing! She’s definitely cared about me and my well-being on numerous occasions. When I transferred to Rowan she made the process easy and painless. Although I was a transfer, she helped me get right on track with all the requirements and classes I had to complete to even be eligible to apply to the Athletic Training Program.
She has always pushed me to be better academically and encourages me when I would get insecure about taking some of the harder classes in my major. I know she is the advisor for hundreds of students so for her to always show so much patience and care for me … I appreciate her for always having my best interest at heart. Even when I told her that I wanted to do a Spanish minor and it seemed like there was no room in my schedule to do so, she came up with a plan that allowed me to finish it right on time before it would possibly interfere with my Athletic Training classes. In short, I would not be as focused and prepared without her.
Today we feature Isabel Weiner, an incoming Biological Science major from Metuchen, NJ (Middlesex County). Isabel plans to live on-campus and will be a part of the field hockey team next year.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
I am enthusiastic about becoming a member of a community full of bright, young leaders. I look forward to surrounding myself with individuals who have the same interests and goals as me.
What is one hobby, activity, sport, or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
During high school, I was a member of a four-time conference champion field hockey team and had the honor to be captain for the 2020 season. I will be a member of the Rowan University Field Hockey program, and I hope to win an NCAA championship. Go Profs!
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college?
I am hoping I grow as an athlete and as a student. I intend to become a member of the Applied Behavior Analysis Club so I can further my understanding of a potential future career.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am considering a major in biological science, as well as a minor in psychology and neuroscience. I have always had a deep interest in STEM and psychology. I hope to one day publish articles on the brain and its impact on behavior and cognitive functions.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events?
I toured the campus when I attended Rowan University for a field hockey prospect clinic. I was impressed by the coaches and the camaraderie of the players on the team. I attended the virtual, informative session about psychology and learned about the degree options.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Choose a school where you can see yourself thriving and contributing to your college community proudly.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I enjoyed the culture of the field hockey team. They have a competitive and hardworking nature, which makes Rowan Field Hockey such a highly-ranked program.
Meet #Rowan2025 incoming freshman Vincent Giasullo! Vincent is an incoming freshman and first-generation college student, Political Science major from Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County). He shares why he chose Rowan and where he wants his degree to take him after he graduates.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
I am looking forward to new experiences in my life and participating in on-campus activities that are relevant to my major.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport, or club?
I plan to expand my knowledge about politics and life in general.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am going to major in Political Science because I want to know what policies were made that were a result of all the good and bad things that are going on in the world and what I can do to fix them by running to be a member of Congress.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I did tour Rowan, and I thought it was excellent. I felt like I had a special connection with my tour guide because we are both in the same major and I could have conversations with her that I could not have in high school.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
When you look at a school, look at the following things: The environment of the area, the cost of the school and how much the school has to offer concerning the major that you want to go into.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The environment of the school and how some parts of the school are in some parts city-like and in others suburb-like. For example, I had gotten the view of all of the dining areas and stops at Rowan, and the environment was comparable to an urban area in my opinion.
Today we speak to Zachary Kazelskis, an incoming Chemical Engineering major from Mickleton, NJ (Gloucester County). Zachary plans on commuting from home next semester.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
I am looking forward to meeting new people and enjoying campus life proper in Rowan! I am looking forward to enjoying all of the new clubs, meeting many new friends and exploring all of my options to have the best time possible on campus.
What is one hobby, activity, sport, or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Some sort of band. I’ve been a part of the Marching Band and Concert Band for many years now, and that is something I would very much like to continue at Rowan.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college?
I want to dive deeper into the musical side of me at college. I hope to pick up a new instrument or two and interact with new people that influence me to embrace the musical part of me.
What major are you considering and why?
Mainly Chemical Engineering … the best possible route to what I want to do, [to] help further optimize and improve food creation and delivery.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events?
I did not. I’ve walked around Rowan many times, but I have never officially toured the school.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Explore all of your options. Truly consider what you want and what would be best for you, and look at all of the schools everywhere to find what’s best for you. It’s fine to take a long time or even a gap year to figure yourself out. Not knowing right now is also okay. These things take time.
Today we feature Rowan Global alumna Kristi Lancaster, who recently earned both her master’s degree in Learning Disabilities and a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (LDTC) certification. Kristi discovered the programs through the New Jersey Teacher Outreach Program (NJTOP®), which supports state educators by making accelerated, graduate-level programs accessible either online at satellite locations, at a discounted rate. Kristi works as a master teacher for a Cumberland County elementary school district.
Can you explain what a master teacher is?
A master teacher is an instructional coach. We support the teachers by setting up or delivering professional development, modeling or co-teaching lessons, and assisting with district programs. We also analyze and share out on school and district-level data. We assist with the communication between the curriculum, instruction and assessment team and the teachers.
What made you decide to go for your master’s degree?
At that time, I was a general education teacher assigned to teach in an inclusion classroom, and I saw a lot of things going on in the special education program that I thought could be improved. I decided I wanted to get my LDTC certification, and in doing that I needed to get my master’s in learning disabilities.
Why Rowan?
Well, I wanted to stay local. I have two children, so I didn’t want to be far from them. Completing classes and classwork online really helped. The combination of the master’s degree and the LDTC certification [at the time] helped also. The NJTOP program, with accelerated online classes and discounted tuition, tipped the scales and finalized my decision to pursue my degree at Rowan.
Has there been a class that has been impactful for you?
There was a class on positive behavior supports that really helped to kind of change the way that I think about behavior issues and offered me a different perspective.
What is one thing you wish people knew about your academic discipline?
This is really specific to the LDTC, [but] a lot of times there’s friction between teachers and the LDTC, and I guess the biggest thing I’d like people to know is that we’re all on the side of the kids. It’s about everyone working together for the sake of the students involved, and functioning as a team in the child study team is extremely important.
Where do you see yourself after earning your degree?
Right now, I’m in a position that I love. I do love where I am right now, but where I see myself next is I would like to transition from the role of a teacher to the LDTC. So I would be doing more of the testing, child study team meetings, and things along those lines.
I’m also interested in pursuing a doctorate eventually, so that’s something I may be looking into. I may want to one day pursue opportunities in administration. At this moment, I’m not really sure. It’s exciting to know that there are still unknowns.
On your busiest day, what academic, non-academic and social responsibilities are you juggling?
I am a mother of two kids. I’m married. We have an English bulldog named Tank. During the school day, I check in with teachers, answer emails about any curriculum-based questions they may have, and visit classrooms. If I have a model lesson set up, I would go and do that. I may have a meeting with [someone from] administration, whether it’s building level or district level. I have different data-based projects throughout the year that I am responsible for, so I try to keep my school assessment data as up-to-date as possible. I’m also responsible for delivering online professional development for teachings, so I spend time planning those presentations.
I live about an hour from work, so the commute also takes up a lot of time. My children both play sports, so that takes up the rest of my time after school. My son has a lot of food allergies, so I have been promoted to head chef here at our house. I do a lot of allergy-friendly cooking. I typically work on my academic responsibilities once the kids are in bed so that I can focus as much as possible.
Kristi playing with her dog, Tank.
What is one thing this field has allowed you to do that you either dreamed of or you never thought you’d get to do?
I always saw myself in the classroom. I always wanted to be a classroom teacher, that was my number one goal all throughout high school, college. And then as I matured in my career, I started wondering about other options that were available. My preferences started to change. Rowan really opened up the door for me to explore those other opportunities that I didn’t think I’d be interested in. At this point in my life, showing up in a classroom every day is really difficult to do, but Rowan allowed me to do that through their online degree options.
Final thoughts?
The reason teachers don’t go after the master’s is they think there’s not a way to do it. You can do this. It’s an accelerated course, it takes eight weeks rather than 16. I went slowly. But if you wanted to go quickly and take your classes back to back, it’s a two-year program if you design it that way. And Rowan, they’ve been supportive with all of my needs, my professors, anything, they’re flexible with deadlines.
As teachers, we have so much on our plates right now you can’t think about adding one more thing. But our plates are big, and you can add one more thing. Rowan makes it doable. I thought it would be impossible, but it’s not.
Seven students in the Economics program share with us how they’re dreaming big and where their major will take them in their professional goals. “My long-term professional dream goal is to be able to apply my knowledge of economics and business alongside my personal interests to find a career path best fitting for me,” says […]
What are your professional goals? And how is Rowan helping to support you in those goals?
My goal is to become a graphic designer in New York, and one day I want to become an art director. The faculty in the Rowan Art Department have always been supportive of my goals and they are always ready to help. They have pushed me to develop my creative voice, gain confidence in my work, and experience leadership positions.
The professors at Westby have infinite amounts of industry experience and they give us so many resources in order to succeed. Because of them and the program they created, I feel confident that I will excel after graduation.
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
Design is everywhere. It is the logo on your hoodie, the poster of your favorite movie, it is the website you’re reading this on, and so much more! Graphic design doesn’t just make things pretty, it tells a story and gives visual meaning to abstract ideas. I think the greatest impact I could have in my field would be to have my work directly inspire another person to create.
What inspired you to choose your major?
In high school, I took an intro to graphic design class and I thought it was amazing. I’ve always gravitated towards the arts, but before that, I never knew I could make a career out of it. After I explored some of the endless possibilities a person could do in graphic design, I knew that that was what I wanted to do.
As a student from North Jersey, how did you become aware of Rowan University?
When I was a junior in high school and still college hunting, I visited the Rowan with a family friend who is an alumnus. I ended up going to a different school my first year of college, but I never forgot the vibe of Rowan’s campus. I found myself always comparing that school to the feeling that Rowan had given me on that tour, and I realized it was time to transfer. It was the best decision I could have ever made.
How long is your trip/drive “home” to North Jersey?
My hometown is an hour and a half drive from campus.
What are some of the benefits for you, living this distance from home?
The distance from home gives me so much freedom. This will seem cliché, but the distance gave me the freedom to learn more about myself. I was forced out of my comfort zone and I was given the opportunity to try new things like sign up for clubs and leadership roles that I might not have tried if I were in my same hometown environment.
What are a few interesting or new things about Rowan’s South Jersey area that you would share with future students that are not from the area?
I’ve lived in New Jersey, more specifically North Jersey, for my entire life. When I moved to South Jersey for school, I didn’t realize how windy it could get! The first winter I spent at Rowan was the first time I experienced a wind that actually took my breath away. Also, I didn’t realize how many amazing start-up bands are around the Rowan area. There are a lot of opportunities to go to house shows, listen to new music, and meet new people.
What off-campus, local fun places do you recommend students check out?
There is an axe throwing place called Primitive Axe on Delsea Drive and that is so fun! It’s super close to campus so you don’t need to worry if you don’t have a car. Axe throwing is a great Friday night activity to do with a few friends. It’s also great because Samurai sushi is in the same lot so you can get dinner too!
Why did you choose to transfer to Rowan University?
Rowan is one of two universities in the state that offers an accredited BFA program for graphic design. When I met with the department chair of the graphic design program, Jan Conradi, and she talked to me about the program, I was sold. From my first portfolio review, I immediately felt like I had a place here and that the staff cared about my success — I still find this to be true.
Story by: Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos submitted by: Jessica Potash, senior studio art major
Header photo by: Pixabay
We are #RowanPROUD to be included on Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s 2021 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes select nationwide colleges and universities that foster dynamic pathways for transfer students.
Tell us a little bit about your favorite class at Rowan so far. My favorite class so far is Chemical Process Component Design (CPCD). It’s a senior-level class where we apply many of the concepts and techniques from previous courses to perform sizing and specification of commonly-used process equipment. It’s really cool to see how […]
Six students share their thoughts on their experiences so far at Rowan and what advice they would share with future freshmen. “I am most looking forward to meeting new people and making friendships for life at Rowan. But also the opportunities that Rowan gives to further my career. In the future I would like to […]
Today we speak to Zai Smith, a junior Sports Communication and Media major with a concentration in Sports Journalism from Trenton, NJ (Mercer County). Zai is a transfer student from Virginia State University and lives on campus.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County), for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan, as a Black student at a Primarily White Institution?
My experience at Rowan as a Black student isn’t bad at all. I didn’t expect certain things that I’ve experienced. I feel supported by my peers and my professors, alongside my advisor.
How did you find your friend group here at Rowan?
My friend group came from the track team.
How would you describe inclusion?
In my opinion, it’s kind of seen as “human rights.”
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
Just go hard, reach for the stars, because nobody will get in your way and in your head more than you will.
What are your professional goals?
I want to become a famous writer because I love to write, and I have quite a story to tell. I also want to own my own business.
Today we speak to Rowan students from three different colleges who share insight on key moments in Black history and suggest books and movies to learn more.
“Black History Month originally began as Negro History Week, created by Carter G. Woodson in 1926. It only became Black History Month in 1976 when President Gerald Ford called for the public to ‘seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.’ The month of February also coincided with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.”
Gregory Williams, a freshman Dance major from South River, NJ (Middlesex County) is a resident on campus at Magnolia Hall. Gregory says he learned about Black history mostly through social media and his own research online. He recommends students read “Stamped from the Beginning” by Ibram X. Kendi or view the movies “Selma,” “13th” and “Harriet” to educate themselves about Black history.
Gregory Williams
“Jack Johnson became the first African American to be a world heavyweight champion.”
Latiesha Small, a freshman Biological Sciences and Mathematics double major from Matawan, NJ (Monmouth County), is a resident on campus at Evergreen Hall. Latiesha says she learned about Black history from her family.
Latiesha Small
“Before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, there was a young girl named Claudette Colvin who refused first.”
Jamar Green, a junior Law & Justice Studies major with an Africana Studies minor, is from Linden, NJ (Union County). Jamar transferred to Rowan from Union County College and is a resident on campus at 230 Victoria. He is a first-generation college student. Jamar says he learned about Black history by researching. “I was always told by my grandfather if you want to know your history you have to learn it for yourself, so I read articles, books and watched videos, documentaries and movies.” A book that he recommends for students to educate themselves about Black history is “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass.
Today, we meet #Rowan2025 student Bailey Livezey! Bailey, an incoming freshman from Mullica Hill, NJ (Gloucester County), was originally undeclared; she then decided a Business degree would be the right fit for her. She shares what clubs she wants to continue pursuing in her college career and offers some advice to other incoming freshmen.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life and perhaps learning something about myself that I didn’t know before.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I have done Key Club and love the aspects about it! Doing community service and helping those in need brings me happiness. I would love to continue to this in college.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I do not have a specific career that I want to do, so I am hoping to figure out what I am passionate about and expand on that.
What majors are you considering and why?
I applied undecided, but I am going to declare as a [College of Business] major. Business includes such a wide variety of careers, which is very exciting to me. I have hope I will fall in love with one of them!
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended a virtual event of Rowan that explained the basics about the campus and what Rowan is about. Not knowing what I want to do as a career, this event assured me that I will figure out my future at Rowan.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Don’t take everything in at once! If you look at it all, it will only overwhelm you. Enjoy the process and take it one step at a time.
Where are you going to live next year?
I’m commuting from home!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The campus is definitely one of my favorite things about Rowan. The Rowan campus is always expanding. I have seen it grow since I live very close by. With the campus consistently evolving, the opportunities that lie on this campus do as well.
Today we feature Kristina D’Antonio, an incoming Inclusive Elementary Education major from Manalapan, NJ (Monmouth County). Kristina plans to live on-campus next year.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward to in college?
One thing I am looking forward to in college is making new friends!
What is one hobby, activity, sport, or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Meet #Rowan2025 freshman Maor Hemo! Maor is an incoming Biological Science major from Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County). He shares what he’s looking forward to in college and why he chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I’m looking forward to meeting all kinds of new people.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I really enjoyed fishing and I hope to keep doing so in college.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’m hoping to figure out what I want to truly pursue.
What majors are you considering and why?
Biological science, I’ve always had an interest for biology.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Yes I did a Rowan virtual tour, everyone seemed very nice.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Just give it a shot, you may regret not taking the chance later.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
Meet #Rowan2025 freshman Henry Conde! Henry is an incoming Electrical & Computer Engineering major from Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County). He shares what he’s most looking forward to when coming to college and offers some advice to high school seniors.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking forward to working with others to create amazing projects!
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
One hobby I did for high school was creating my own music and performing them on various talent shows. I definitely hope to continue this in college.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’m hoping to improve my presentation skills in college. I am also trying to improve my singing voice and I would love to interact with talented people to see what I can learn from them.
What majors are you considering and why?
I already made my plan to major in computer and electrical engineering.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I did do a virtual event for Rowan, I don’t remember which one it was, but I was astounded by the architecture of all the buildings. I also was amazed at how many clubs and events there are.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
My advice to other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet would be to go local. When you get a job, you can go to any state you’d like; but in college, local is the better way to go to save money. Stay closer to family. Local is just all around easier.
Where are you going to live next year?
I’m commuting from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The thing I like about Rowan the most is the architecture of all the buildings, especially Holly Pointe Commons. It used bright grey, yellow and white to create a scattered pattern on a building, which is very unique and very detailed. I also like how close it is to my family, including my grandparents.
Meet #Rowan2025 freshman Bella Guerriero! Bella is a first-generation college student and incoming College of Business student from Philadelphia, PA. She shares with us what she hopes to discover in college and where she sees herself after she gets her degree.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
One thing I am looking forward to in college is meeting new people and trying new things that I am unfamiliar of.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
Something I’m hoping to discover about myself in college is what my purpose is in life.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am considering majoring in business because I hope to own my own daycare one day.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
If I had to give any advice to other high school seniors who haven’t committed yet it would be to weigh the pros and cons of the options available to you. It’s your future, your career, make sure you love your choice no matter what.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
One thing I really like about Rowan is that they have so much to offer to all of their students.
Today, we feature Michelle Hackett, a student in Rowan Global’s master of science: nurse practitioner program. Here, she shares her story about her time at Cooper Hospital in Camden, NJ and offers insight on the reality of being a nurse.
I stayed in trauma med surg at Cooper Hospital in Camden for nine years. Loved it. I got through to a lot of these little young fellas out here who wanted to fight and gangbang and shoot. I’m a momma bear kind. I’m really not that afraid, because I grew up here in the city. So I’m not, “Oh, they’re going to shoot me! They’re going to come back and kill me!” and I’ve been threatened and all, but I’m not concerned. In the end, they know that I care about people. In the end, they are human.
My boys here in the city, sometimes when I’m off from work we run into each other and they’re, “Hey, Miss Michelle!” and I say, “Hey!”… but never speak of where we know each other. They are very protective. They turned around from being argumentative and threatening to embracing me like a family member.
Some of them are repeat offenders. I had one kid who was on drugs, and he was a male prostitute who used to rob his clients. He would come in frequently. We met him when he was really young. I used to always tell this kid, “One of these days you’re not going to make it up here to the floor. You really need to stop.” He’d say, “Oh, Miss Michelle, I know what I’m doing. I’ve got this.” And, lo and behold, he came through trauma admitting one day. He was shot multiple times for robbing one of his guys … and he was killed by him. I thought, “Dammit, I told you this would happen.”
So, all the outcomes aren’t good. I have to keep it all in perspective. My mom died when I was 13, so I’ve been on my own since I was 15. Even though I have a very large family, the social constructs of living in Camden are different — some things you hear about Camden are true, and some things are not. But I try to keep things very practical and try not to overthink things. Death is a part of life. I do cry, I do grieve my patients. There are people I will never, ever forget. But I just try to keep it in perspective and know that I did the best that I could for them while they were here.
It can be traumatic if you are faint hearted as a nurse, because you’re seeing these broken bodies, you’re seeing these bodies that are mutilated. You’re seeing people die. It is not something that I shy away from, because I am a spiritual person and I do believe that there is a God and that there is something beyond this. My faith teaches me that this isn’t something to be afraid of. That’s what I give to my families, too, so I can inspire them through my faith to help them through the healing or grieving process.
I love what I do, but I decided to get the master’s because I was working nights and crazy hours and I wanted to enjoy my kids, who I had late in life. I knew I wanted to do a NP [nurse practitioner] program because I want to teach. I know there’s not a lot of money in teaching, but that’s my passion and that’s my heart’s desire. Earning the NP serves a dual purpose for me: one, I can teach; and two, I’m going to be cutting edge and still be abreast of what’s going on in practice, so I can share that with my students.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Amy Fortuna-Moreira! Amy is an incoming freshman from Camden, NJ (Camden County) deciding to pursue a degree in either Chemistry or Psychology. She shares what she’s looking forward to on campus and why she chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I’m looking forward to the new environment and meeting new people.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I’d like to continue going to Anime Club and getting to meet others who also like it.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I can’t wait to discover more about different clubs and hopefully gain a new interest through it.
What majors are you considering and why?
I’m considering chemistry or psychology. I loved both of these subjects in high school, and for my career, both would be great to advance in.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Don’t rush it, and take your time. Look through your options and choose whatever stand out or fits you best.
Where are you going to live next year?
I’m commuting from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I love the environment and the atmosphere of it all. It feels like a big family and everyone just seems so sweet.
Today we speak with Jamar Green, a junior double major in Law and Justice Studies and Africana Studies from Linden, NJ (Union County). Jamar, who transferred to Rowan from Union County College, is a first-generation college student. Jamar lives on-campus at 230 Victoria.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County), for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan like, as a Black student at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution)?
I feel that going to a PWI will better benefit me. The experience I have had so far at Rowan had been on the positive side. I do feel included at Rowan. In both of my majors, I feel like they support Black students well.
How did you find your friend group here at Rowan?
The way I found my friend group at Rowan was by joining clubs and a transfer group chat when I first attended.
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
Be ready to work hard and don’t give up no matter what anyone says. It’s not a field they want to see us in, but a field they’re going to need us in if they want to see change.
Today we feature senior Thomas Delmonte, a Chemistry major with a minor in Physics. Thomas is from Jackson, NJ (Ocean County) and is a first-generation college student. What do you like about your major? I like a lot of things about it. I like the department. I like a lot of the professors. I like the […]
Today we feature LaDaysha White, a first-generation senior Sociology major from Florence, NJ (Burlington County). She also has a Certificate of Undergraduate study in Public Policy. LaDaysha is a transfer student from Ramapo College of New Jersey, and she tells us about her Rowan experience. Tell us a little bit about your favorite class at […]
Today we feature first-generation college student and recent December 2020 graduate JoAnna Contarino from Elk Township, NJ (Burlington County). JoAnna is a Environmental & Sustainability Studies major and transfer from Rowan College of South Jersey. She has minors in Ethics, Planning, Political Science and a Certificate of Undergraduate Study in Environmental Policy & Economics. Tell […]
Meet Diamonnique M., a Rowan Global student from Essex County who began her master’s degree in history pursuit in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s going back to school at the same time as she navigates her first year teaching social studies and English language arts (ELA) at the elementary school level. Here, Diammonnique shares her thoughts on the power of education and dispels myths about studying history.
When I first started pursuing my associate degree, I thought that was just pretty much my stopping point. I’ll just get that associate degree, this will be it, and I’ll move forward with my life and hopefully find a job that’s better paying than the job I had at that particular time.
And I realized that no, Diamonnique, you need to pursue, continue forward, pursue the next step. And it just kind of became like an addiction, pursuing education. And I kind of started thinking to myself, well, you’re pursuing these degrees, what is it that you’re going to end up doing?
Because I already had a background in education as far as caregiving within the daycare system, and then moving forward to serve as a paraprofessional, I said, OK, this is ideally what my my track seems to be, my path seems to be to serve as an educator, teaching what it is that I have and imparting that knowledge to younger students who are up and coming to be scholars and change agents.
I teach social studies and ELA to on a second and third grade level. Prior to earning a full-time teaching position, I served as a paraprofessional and a substitute educator. It’s been a tremendous task for me to adapt to a different learning style, and make sure that I’m doing my best to keep students engaged, virtually opposed to being in person where I can use other tactics and different techniques.
It’s a new system, it’s a new set of rules that I am doing my best to implement, making sure that I’m keeping the students engaged, but at the same time, imparting all the knowledge that I need to impart within a certain amount of time.
I have a variety of students: learners who learn easily, learners who have a different way of learning, such as the visual learners, and so forth. I really do my best to make sure that I’m incorporating all learning styles in my presentation daily, so that I can make sure these students are not lacking in anything. And yes, we can easily use not being in person to learn and to teach as an excuse. But that won’t be an excuse that I am interested in making use of.
I take education very seriously: for my students, anyone that I encounter, even with my own children. Education is very big in our household. My son is 5 years old reading on a higher level. This is very important to me. And I hope that when my students progress to the next grade, they can constantly be praised for their efforts and the knowledge that they are sharing with the educator and other students that they come into contact with.
The impact that I hope to have on the next generation of historians is to really just tackle all of your goals fearlessly pursuing them in a manner in which you have a mentality that you are unstoppable, you are capable of doing anything and everything. Despite all of these different voices, all of these different obstacles, you get back, you fall down, you get back up, that’s just the sense of being that I wish others to have when listening to me knowing my story.
What’s so interesting is that when people learn about the history program being available, there’s … this negative connotation. And the negative connotation is pretty much: What can you do with a history degree? Are you sure? Don’t you want to reconsider?
I hope this thought process can shift as far as the negative connotation that’s associated with history in itself, and that it can shift to being something that is of more of an essence, it’s valuable, and it’s seen as necessary.
There are so many things that you can do utilizing a history degree. Clearly, predominantly, a lot of the participants of the history program pursue teaching. But there are other things that you can do, such as engaging in the political arena, engaging in areas that you can serve somehow, in a museum field, the list can continue.
That’s what I love about Rowan University. It’s very diverse, you have so many different areas of focus, such as global studies, gender studies, Africana studies … everything is just really tailored to what it is that you want to do as far as going out into the world and utilizing your degrees. And I’m really thankful that they had that when I first came in. I know that I don’t want to be confined to one particular area of content.
And I honestly promise you, it is not nearly as boring as people perhaps consider it to be. I feel like with the right educator, and the manner of delivery and the different visuals that are combined, in reference to the teaching skill, it can be only as exciting as the educator makes it be and only as exciting as you condition your mind to believe it is.
With that being said, even though the workload this recent semester was extremely heavy, I learned so much. And I enjoyed every little little bit of it.
“I want to say that I am making a difference or at least attempting to. I am an environmental and sustainability major and there are a lot of issues revolving around that topic. I do want to make the world a better place,” says Joanna Janowski, a junior from Livingston, NJ (Essex County) who transferred to Rowan from Montclair State University.
“The fact that there are all these ways to be sustainable in the world and we can all contribute to living in a sustainable world excites me. Also, how we can change the world to apply to all walks of life,” says Madison Kerr, a junior with a minor in Sustainable Built Environments from Marlton, NJ (Burlington County) and transfer student from Rowan College of Burlington County.
“How incredibly relevant it always will be. Cities are constantly growing, changing and evolving. They are living things that need constant attention. Knowing that I have to keep educating myself and can never be complacent in my field of study is exciting,” says Gabby Davis, a senior double major in ESS and Community and Environmental Planning with a CUGS in Food Systems Planning. Gabby, who transferred from from Montclair State University, lives in Manahawkin, NJ (Ocean County).
Meet #Rowan2025 student Paige Nixson! Paige is an incoming freshman Communication Studies and Dance major from Bel Air, Maryland. She tells us what she’s looking forward to in college and shares some advice to high schoolers who haven’t committed to a school yet.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and really experiencing what it’s like to be on my own! I think college is such a big step in anyone’s life, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me!
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I plan on continuing to dance as I did in high school on a competition dance team by majoring in dance and participating in mainstage dance productions.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I really am open to anything! I would love to join a club where I can meet people of similar interests. I hope to discover people of all backgrounds and beliefs and really grow as a person and educate myself.
What majors are you considering and why?
I plan on double majoring with Communication Studies and Dance. I am majoring in Communication Studies to grow my skills of writing and understand how people react to certain advertisements and ways of communication. I think it is all around really interesting! I’m also majoring in Dance because it it such an important piece of my life, and I would love to continue my education in college to hopefully perform or choreograph professionally after college.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I plan on attending the audio tour in February. My family and I did drive up to the campus over the summer to just drive around and get an idea of the campus, and I loved it! I loved that it felt like a real college campus, with aspects of “real life” surrounding it with many options for food, studying areas and entertainment.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Pick the place that feels like home! If you haven’t visited or don’t have the chance to visit, I suggest looking up the campus on Google Earth. It can give you a good idea what the campus looks like and feels like without physically being there. Also, take the time to look up what kind of classes you may take with your major. If it interests you, look deeper into that school. Make a pros and cons list of every school to help you narrow down your options.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I loved the small class sizes while still having a large amount of majors and classes to pick from. I also love the Theatre and Dance department. When I met with the professors for the first time over a Zoom call, I felt so comfortable and felt like I could be myself without any judgement.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Kate O’Boyle! Kate is an incoming freshman Nutrition major from Manahawkin, NJ (Ocean County). Kate is excited to come to campus next semester and will be joining the Rowan field hockey team.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am most excited for a new chapter in my life! I can’t wait to branch out, meet new people and have more freedom and responsibilities.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I have been part of the Southern Regional field hockey team since middle school, as well as several club teams. I will be playing on the Rowan field hockey team in fall 2021.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I am interested to see how well I can do on my own while being a part of Rowan’s nutrition program and field hockey team.
What majors are you considering and why?
Nutrition because I have always been interested in how one’s diet and activity level will affect their body.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I visited Rowan in February of 2020. Coach Andre brought me about campus, and I immediately loved it and knew it was the perfect college for me.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
I would say that it is most important to listen to your gut and if you really like the campus and what the college can provide to you, then it is a perfect fit for you!
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I loved that as I visited, I felt a sense of comfort.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Mikiah Clark! Mikiah is an incoming freshman majoring in Biological Sciences from Camden County. She shares with us why she chose Rowan and what she’s looking forward to in her college experience.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking forward to having the college experience. In my eyes the college experience would include making life long friends with common interests and obtaining leadership positions in committees.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
As a current member of the National Honor Society and a former member of the National Junior Honor Society, I would like to pursue clubs of academic excellence first then I look forward to engaging in some form of leadership, volunteerism, and mentoring programs.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I am open to try a lot of new things. I love socializing with people of various background and mentoring younger kids. Since I am majoring in science and math, I would love to join some clubs involving those skills.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am considering a degree in the medical field and to hopefully become an anesthesiologist. My dream has always been to help others and I feel that the medical field presents me with a unique opportunity to comfort people going into surgery by letting them know I will make sure they awake with my care.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I have visited the campus on several occasions and I thought it was beautiful campus it has plenty of opportunities to excel. I am so excited to be accepted!
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
I highly recommend Rowan University because it represents academic excellence, a beautiful campus, and plenty opportunities for socialization in a safe environment.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
It is local, has a beautiful campus, and is one of New Jersey’s finest colleges.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Richard Betz! Richard is an Entrepreneurship major from Laurel Springs, NJ (Camden County) and a graduate from Camden County Technical Schools – Gloucester Township Campus. He shares what he hopes to learn during his time at Rowan and why he chose Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking very forward to studying Entrepreneurship and being exposed to young, aspiring business figures much like myself.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I was a part of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) during high school. I would like to carry on the tradition in college, if possible.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I’m hoping to see how flexible and how good of a multi-tasker I am in college. I plan on starting and building up my career as a real estate agent while in college.
What majors are you considering and why?
Entrepreneurship and Political Science are two topics that are very special to me. I have always had a legitimate interest in both business and American politics. I would like to establish myself as a prominent businessman and possibly run for local office one day.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
I just like the area Rowan is located. I am very familiar with the Glassboro area and like the suburban/rural scenery.
Meet #Rowan2025 student Kiran Kaur! Kiran is an incoming freshman Law and Justice Studies major from Westampton, NJ (Burlington County). Kiran is excited to come to Rowan and shares what she looks forward to in college.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am trying to make new good friends. I am studying Law and Justice Studies.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I would like to be a part of a baking club if there are any. I like baking cupcakes, cake pops, cookies and cake!
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I just want to learn more about my major and develop new skills in the career.
What majors are you considering and why?
Law and Justice Studies. I’m trying to go in the pre-corrections path.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
Yes, it was a nice college!
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Rowan University is a pretty clean and nice campus. They should try applying and take a tour.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
Meet #Rowan2025 student Emma Padros! Emma is an incoming Chemical Engineering major all the way from New Milford, CT. Emma shares why she chose her major and what she’s looking forward to coming to Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am really looking forward to all the events and activities that the Rowan Student Government plans such as their trips to Philly every Friday and their concerts once everything goes back to normal.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I will be joining Rowan’s Swim and Dive team. I have been swimming competitively for over 10 years now, and I am so excited to be a part of such an amazing team where I will be able to continue the sport that I love.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I am hoping that college will help to make me a more outgoing person as well as help me to become a more independent and self sufficient person. I am also excited to learn new skills such as learning how to use one of the many 3D printers on campus.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am going to major in chemical engineering. I have always been interested in engineering as a kid since both of my parents were engineers, so they exposed me to what the major was all about. In high school I took engineering classes, which really helped me realize this is what I want to do in the future. In high school I also found an interest in chemistry, and the more I looked into the major, the more I saw what I could do with it. I hope to go the environmental side of chemical engineering in hopes of developing more environmentally-friendly products for society.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended two virtual open houses: one for the College of Engineering and the other specifically for chemical engineering. I also went on campus and did a self-guided tour with the audio provided on the Rowan Spotify. All of these were so accessible and it made it nice since it’s all pre-recorded so you can look back at all the recordings to freshen up on any information that you may have missed or forgotten.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
My advice to any high school seniors who have not committed to a college is to utilize all videos and audio information that the college provides for you. It can be really helpful once you’re down to your top schools when deciding which schools have those differentiating factors that others don’t, no matter how similar they may appear.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
One thing that I loved about Rowan was how there was an abundance of outdoor seating and areas to hang out, as well as how scenic the campus was — even in the dead of winter it looks beautiful.
