Discover the Benefits of the Disney College Program: Real-World Experience, Networking, and Lifelong Memories Meet Sydney Cella, a business management major, entrepreneurship minor, and John H. Martinson Honors College student from Washington Township (Gloucester County), New Jersey. Sydney will graduate in about a year and half from now, and participated in the Disney College Program. […]
business management
Transitioning From Living on a Farm to a City
One Rowan University Student Shares Her Journey Through Culture Shock Hannah Goolden, a senior business management major from Hammonton, NJ (Atlantic County) shares this first-person perspective on how her life changed when moving from a farm to a city.
50 Profs Share 50 Reasons They Love Rowan
Profs Love Their Majors 1. “I fell in love with my major because of how versatile and pertinent the information I learn is to the world around us. One of my favorite classes was Immunology.” – Zalak Modi, senior biochemistry 3+4 BS/DO major. Zalak’s #PROFspective of campus at night. 2. “Two degrees in five years […]
Woman in Business: Fey Talabi Reflects on Her First Year in the MBA Program
Fey Talabi, a Rowan Global student from Baltimore, Maryland, shares how she manages her roles as a resident director and a student in the MBA program.
Fey’s journey at Rowan University began at her undergraduate institution. Her supervisor, a proud Rowan alumni, recommended that she go to graduate school and pursue her degree here.
“I majored in Health Administration for my undergraduate degree and really enjoyed it. I knew I wanted to stay in healthcare, but I wanted to do so on the business side of things,” Fey says. “Rowan University’s program really stuck out to me because it is one of the only institutions that offer a concentration in Management. Now, I am pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management.”
Wrapping up her first year in the program, Fey has enjoyed her experience in the MBA program thus far.
“Graduate school has taught me some really valuable lessons. I feel like I am learning information that is practical and applicable to the workforce. In my Leadership Theory class, I am learning how to be an effective manager and how to rally employees toward a common goal. My Corporate Entrepreneurship class has given me the opportunity to format real business proposals. The program is very concentrated and focused, which I like.”
Along with academics, Fey is working as a resident director of Chestnut Hall.
“I learned about the resident director position from my former supervisor as well. I interviewed for the position through MAPC, which is a conference for employers to interview potential employees for work opportunities. I ended up getting the position and began training in August,” she says.
Fey’s favorite part of the position is her staff of resident assistants.
“This is my first time supervising a staff this large. I am taking management classes for my program, so it’s great to get to apply what I am learning in class to my assistantship. I really get to put my skills to work. Aside from my staff, Rowan University has a diverse culture and I have loved getting to interact with different members of the residential community,” Fey explains.
Managing classes and a graduate assistantship is no easy task, but Fey makes it look that way.
“It is all about time management. I am lucky because my job allows me to structure specific office hours, so I am able to base my schedule around that. I also have a supervisor that really values me as a person and student. She is adamant that I make time for schoolwork.”
In the future, Fey hopes to work in the healthcare industry. “I would love to work within the pharmaceutical sector as a business manager. Financial management really interests me, and I am excited to use my skills to better the healthcare industry one day.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, senior public relations and advertising major
Photos courtesy of:
Fey Talabi
Beyond the Classroom: How Dawn Lombardi Gave a Senior Cat a Forever Home
Dawn Lombardi, a double major in Nutrition and Business Management, shares her experience of working with Rowan’s Office of Accessibility Services to give her new cat his forever home.
Dawn was juggling her responsibilities as a resident assistant and student all by herself. This year, she decided she was ready for a companion that she could take care of. “I felt like I had a lot of love to give and wanted to direct my energy into something good,” she says. “That’s why I adopted Reggie.”
Reginald, Dawn’s cat, is a 12-year-old senior adoptee from Homeward Bound Animal shelter.
“I wanted to adopt a senior cat because they are often overlooked by other families,” Dawn explains. “Usually, people who adopt want a young animal, so senior pets have trouble finding their forever home. I wanted an older cat so I could make its older years the best it’s ever had.”
Before adopting Reginald, Dawn had to go through a thorough ESA (emotional support animal) approval process.
“I looked up the Rowan ESA policy, saw that I qualified, filled out the necessary paperwork, and turned it into the Academic Success Center [now called the Office of Accessibility Services]. The people were very helpful. I worked closely with [staff members] during my process, and [they were] awesome.”
John Woodruff, director of the Office of Accessibility Services, talks about this process in a bit more detail.
“There is an online registration form on our website that students must complete. They are then responsible for working with their healthcare provider to fill out a three-page application form to request an accommodation for an ESA. A dog, cat, lizard, or rabbit are all animals that can be an ESA. After the application is complete, our office shares a link with the student that connects them to a portal where they can upload any documentation necessary (a formal diagnosis, an emergency contact for the desired animal, the breed/name of the animal, etc.),” he says.
Now that he is approved, Reginald is living lavishly in Dawn’s Rowan Boulevard Apartment. “I think the Rowan Boulevard Apartments are really suitable for an ESA. My apartment is a great size and has multiple rooms that he can walk around in.”
Aside from being adorable, Reginald has helped Dawn become a better student. “Reggie wakes me up for breakfast in the morning, so it helps me to get out of bed and get my day started nice and early. With him, I have a reason to get up and be productive,” she says.
Reginald has helped Dawn in more ways than one.
“When I feel overwhelmed with school or anything really, he comes and sits next to me. Just having him there gives me so much comfort. I joke and say that he is an ESA to everyone, too. My friends or residents that come and pay him a visit love him. He makes everyone’s day better.”
“I am really grateful Rowan gives us the option to have an ESA. It makes me feel very supported and valued as a student who is juggling a lot.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, senior public relations and advertising major
Photos courtesy of:
Dawn Lombardi
Calysta Laurente’s European Study Abroad Experience
Today we speak with Calysta Laurente, a junior Management and Marketing major who is also minoring in International Studies. Calysta took the fall 2021 semester abroad to Europe. She discusses her experiences abroad and reflects upon her time studying in France and visiting different countries.
What made you decide to study abroad? Was it always your intention to study abroad?
Studying abroad was something that I knew I wanted to do even before I chose Rowan as my university. I love to travel and it is something I hope to continue to do for a very long time. I grew up in a family that also loves to travel, always going on summer vacations and long roadtrips. Growing up traveling to different places and learning about different cultures was always something that I loved to do.
Although I was a little indecisive of where I wanted to go because I had so many great options, I chose Paris, France. This is because I knew I wanted to be in Europe and I also have close family that live in Paris. This way, I was more comfortable going abroad knowing that I had family close by which I was especially thankful for when it came to the transition from America to France.
What program are you a part of: provider programs, exchange programs or faculty-led programs?
The program that I chose through Rowan is the American Institute of Foreign Studies (AIFS), an exchange student program. My study abroad advisor actually helped me choose my program since Rowan offers so many. She suggested AIFS because she had a really good experience abroad with the program when she had gone.
How has studying abroad been beneficial to you and the major you are studying?
One of the factors that I was worried about when choosing to study abroad was if I was still going to graduate on time. Thankfully, through AIFS I had gotten to choose the university I wanted to apply to when coming to France.
This fall I attended The American Business School of Paris. This is an international university located right in the heart of Paris. Choosing this school was very beneficial for me because I was able to take all the business courses I needed to stay on track to graduate. Also, all of my classes were in English, so there was no language barrier. Lastly, because it is an international university, most students were exchange students for the semester and came from all over the world which made the social aspect really fun because I had the chance to meet so many great people.
Can you talk about the different places you have visited while being abroad? Have you stayed in France the entire time or have you traveled elsewhere?
While living in Europe it was fairly easy to travel to different countries. I was lucky enough to have traveled to Switzerland, Italy, England, Portugal and the Netherlands. I have also traveled to other cities within France. Thankfully, it was easy to travel within Europe; but unfortunately with Covid, the restrictions were different in each country.
Planning a trip, I had to go through researching the different restriction rules for that specific country beforehand. But going through that process was always worth it for the visit. Each country I was able to see I loved. Getting to learn about the culture in each country was an unforgettable experience for me.
What has been your favorite part of studying abroad?
I love everything about what I had gotten to experience studying abroad. But what I loved the most about traveling is definitely the people I have met. I am so thankful that with my housing situation I was able to live with two other American students that I had gotten so close with in such a short period of time. Through the AIFS program, I was able to be a part of a close knit group of students from all over the U.S. whom I am lucky enough to call some of my best friends.
Going to the American Business School, I had the opportunity to meet students from all over the world, which was really fascinating to me. Even just the little conversations I had with people during class, hostel stays in different countries, and walking down the streets of France had made such a big impact on my experience abroad.
I am just so grateful to be able to say that I have friends who live in so many different countries around the world.
Was it hard to adjust to being abroad? Was it difficult to be in a different country where a different language was spoken?
Personally, it is not very often when I get homesick. At home, I live on campus and during the summers I work alot down the shore, not seeing my family too often. One of the biggest adjustments was living in my homestay. It was really nerve-racking not only knowing that I was moving into someone else’s home, but also not knowing my roommates beforehand.
I was completely blind about my living situation until that first day I arrived in France. My homestay family was an older French couple who spoke almost no English so it was very difficult to communicate with them most of the time. I had come to France knowing no French at all and not even having the comfort of your native language was hard to adjust to at first. Although, I was able to get through it. Even though it was hard to communicate with my homestay family, I always did my best. I have been taking a French course as well as studying the language on my own time and those little conversations I had shared with them and I know made them happy.
Can you talk about where you stayed while abroad and take us through a typical day in your life abroad?
While abroad, I stayed with a host family – an older French couple with two other roommates who were also 20-year-old American girls (one from South Carolina and the other from Texas). My typical school day started with my first class at 8:30 a.m. Although I either had one or two classes a day, the school day was fairly long because the classes were three hours long. I would wake up around 7 a.m. to get ready for class and give myself time to get to the Metro because public transportation is the most convenient way to get around Paris.
In between classes depending on how long my break was that day, I would grab food with friends (or alone), trying different cafes and different food places where I can get a quick meal for (hopefully) a reasonable price. I also enjoyed cafes to just socialize with friends or get work done. After my school day, I would take the Metro back home and if I was not having dinner with my host family, or going out with friends, I would be cooking my own meal at home.
What advice would you give to students preparing to go abroad? Is there anything you wish you knew before you left?
The best advice I would give students who are preparing to go abroad would be to step out of your comfort zone and to say yes to doing things you may not be so comfortable with. Obviously, don’t say yes to things you absolutely don’t want to do. But try being social and participate in as much as possible because you are only going to get what you put into the experience abroad.
Be the first person to start a conversation with someone you may not know, ask questions, try new food, visit as many places as you can — because the time you have abroad goes by so so fast. You are there to complete your courses, but a big part of the education abroad is being independent and figuring things out on your own.
Something that I wish I knew before I left was how to pack. There were so many times where I felt that I didn’t have the right clothing for certain situations. Make sure to do research on what the weather will be like for the time you are abroad and how the people who live there may dress. I definitely under-packed for my trip.
How has studying abroad impacted your educational experience? What has the experience taught you that you may not have been able to learn from staying at Rowan University in the states?
I learned so much while living abroad. It was such a great learning experience for not only my field of study, but I was also able to learn so much about myself as well. I was able to learn so much about different cultures and what life is like for those who live in different countries. I felt so connected with so many people I met and it is crazy to think that you live a similar life to someone who lives on the other side of the world. I learned what it really means to be American, and through conversations with others learned their point of view of America which was very interesting. Everything that I have learned about different cultures, religions, and the history of our country and the world, really came to life when I was abroad which was such a surreal experience for me.
I always considered myself to be very independent but living on my own in a foreign country, knowing no one, not even the language was such a drastic change for me and there were times where I really had to depend on myself. At Rowan I am constantly surrounded by so many people. Going from living in a house off campus with so many of my closest friends, and my campus being such a short drive away from home — moving to France was quite the change. These are the kinds of things I may not have been able to learn from staying at Rowan.
What is your overall impression on this experience? What was the most challenging part of being abroad? What was the most rewarding part? Any other emotions?
My overall experience of choosing to go abroad was one that I will cherish forever. I am so thankful for my family encouraging me to go to France, Rowan for helping me with the process, and AIFS for making me feel so comfortable abroad.
Personally, the most challenging part going abroad for me was physically leaving to go to France. I had such a good summer with my family and friends, and by the time the fall semester came around and it was almost time for me to leave, I was having many second thoughts about my decision to leave for the semester. I really enjoy Rowan and watching all my best friends get ready for the semester made me scared that I would miss out. There were definitely hard days abroad where I had felt alone and missed friends and family but that was inevitable.
The most rewarding part about being abroad was the fact that I made the decision to come to France alone. Not knowing anyone coming abroad had really forced me to step out of my comfort zone and really get to know myself and those who I had met. I’m lucky enough that I was even getting this experience with the pandemic. It’s rewarding knowing that I am coming back to the U.S. open minded, with a new view on life, and have learned so much about our world.
What were some culture shocks you experienced while being a student abroad?
There were many culture shocks I was unprepared for when I came abroad. Most of it had to do with the eating culture in France. To start, the portion sizes are way smaller in France than in America. My eating habits definitely changed abroad — I had found myself eating little portions throughout the day rather than huge meals. Another culture shock having to do with food is the eating times. I learned that in most parts of Europe, restaurants will tend to close during the day, around 3-7 p.m. and then re-open up for dinner, around 8 p.m (everything closed on Sundays). This is because the French people tend to follow a set schedule for when it is time for lunch/dinner. This was difficult at times for my friends and I, especially after long hours of class and found almost nothing to be open. There are other culture shocks I have experienced, but situations with food are what I found to be some of the biggest transitions, especially coming from America.
Is there anything else you would like to add or discuss for the article?
If you have the chance to go abroad for a semester, do it!!!! It seriously changed my life!! Especially with the effect Covid had on my mental health, I realized how much I needed these past 3 ½ months. Going abroad completely alone was one of the bravest things I have ever done and the fear of traveling alone shouldn’t be a reason for a person not to go. I am so thankful for Rowan’s Study Abroad department, AIFS, my supportive family and friends, all of the beautiful places I had experienced, and the amazing people I had met throughout my journey.
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Story by:
Natalie DePersia, junior public relations major
Photos provided by:
Calysta Laurente
Header Photo courtesy of:
Pexels
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Rowan Abroad: Rana Sarwatejas Shares His Experience Studying in Great Britain!
Melody Wozunk Named Student CEO of Saxbys New Campus Cafe
Today we feature Melody Wozunk, a senior Management major from Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County). Melody is the inaugural Student Cafe Executive Officer for the new student-run Saxbys cafe at Rowan’s Rohrer College of Business.
Saxbys is a Certified B Corporation and coffee company in over 10 different locations. Saxbys’ mission statement is “Make Life Better.” With their mission statement and the up-and-coming workforce in mind, Saxbys created the Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform. Within the Experiential Learning Platform, one undergraduate student will be the student CEO of the campus cafe for a semester.
Melody Wozunk is the new Student CEO for the Rowan University Saxbys campus cafe located in the Rohrer College of Business. Melody goes into detail about the Experiential Learning Platform, discusses how she found out about this opportunity, and shares future plans.
I understand that Saxbys has partnered with Rowan University in an all new student-run café starting this fall, and you are the new SCEO. How did you get involved?
I was in a career planning and development class back in Spring 2021, and my professor encouraged me to attend an online career fair. I went ahead and went on and scrolled through the employer list. This is when I came across Saxbys, a company I was vaguely familiar with. Originally, I was just looking for a summer internship. It just so happened that this opportunity turned into something so much greater and way beyond just that. I am so grateful that I logged onto the career fair that day because I was instantly informed of this Student CEO position and it has been a dream come true.
What are your feelings as the first Student CEO of Rowan’s Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform?
I feel a mixture of emotions when I think about this opportunity. I feel extremely excited, blessed, honored, challenged, and simply just so happy to be here and part of this experience of the Experiential Learning Platform. I know I am going to learn so much and will be able to utilize the skills I learn in my future endeavors.
From your understanding, what are your roles and responsibilities as the SCEO of the campus cafe?
Saxbys breaks it down into what they call the three pillars. The pillars include financial management, community leadership and team development. I have a lot of different responsibilities as the SCEO, but they all fall into the three pillars. For example, for financial management, I will constantly be tracking costs of goods sold in the cafe and evaluating revenue. For team development, I will be working a lot on the floor as a “team lead,” which is viewed as a management position. For community leadership, I will focus on getting Rowan involved and interested in this new cafe.
What are your professional plans post graduation? Do you plan on working for a company like Saxbys long term?
It is hard to say what the future holds for me. I am still going to be a student and I obviously will not be going into the full-blown workforce until after I graduate; however, I would be honored to work for Saxbys long term. I have loved working with Saxbys so far, and just their mission statement alone of “Make Life Better” truly resonates with me.
What personal goals do you have for working as the SCEO for the Rowan Saxbys campus cafe?
I really want to provide an awesome experience for guests that are coming in: the Rowan community. Our goal at Saxbys, as stated previously, is to “Make Life Better.” However, I can accomplish that through my team, for the community is really important to me. I also am looking forward to developing my team. Starting up as a brand new cafe is an exciting experience; however, it can also be a little intimidating. Therefore, a personal goal for me is to spread confidence, create a fun working environment and a motivating atmosphere.
Personally, I am looking to improve my time management skills, professional communication skills, and my overall drive and focus as a professional who is practically starting their first full-time job.
The grand opening of Rowan’s Saxbys campus cafe was held on Sept. 21. The cafe is looking for outgoing, detail-oriented, disciplined and passionate workers.
To find out more information on the Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform, you can click the website linked below. For information on how to apply and join the team you can click the following;
https://www.saxbyscoffee.com/how-to-apply/
Learn more about the Saxby’s SCEO program here:
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Story By:
Natalie DePersia, junior public relations major
Photos courtesy of:
Saxbys
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Meet #Rowan2025: Aspiring Business Major Brooke Woodworth
Meet incoming first-year Brooke Woodworth, a first generation college student and aspiring Business Management major from Freehold, NJ (Monmouth County). Brooke tells us more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan.
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. College is a whole new experience where you could meet new people and make friendships that last a lifetime. I have already met so many new friends, and I can’t wait for school to start.
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 sport that I was a part of in high school was cheerleading. I did high school cheer for three years and I have done all-star cheerleading for eight years. I would like to continue to do cheerleading in college because I do not want to give up what I love.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college?
One thing that I would like to discover about myself in college is my independence. College is something that you have to take upon yourself and be independent about. You have to learn to do things on your own. I am excited to see what I can do.
What majors are you considering and why?
I am majoring in business. The reason why I chose a business major is because I want to one day be CEO of my own company. I hope one day I have my own company and it becomes very popular throughout the country and or one day the world.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I took a live tour of Rowan. I thought the campus was beautiful, and I loved how close everything was.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
One piece of advice that I have for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to school yet is choose a school that best fits you. Don’t go to school because it is the most popular or all of your friends are going. Choose a school that you will love for all four years and make great memories out of it.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
One thing I loved about Rowan is how close the town was. Everything is walking distance, and the campus just seems like such a happy place.
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, music industry graduate
Meet #Rowan2025: Advertising and Management Major Emily Gizzi
Meet incoming first year student Emily Gizzi! Emily is an aspiring Advertising and Management dual major from North East, Maryland. She tells us more about what she’s looking forward to at Rowan.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college? (Personally, academically, anything!)
I’m really looking forward having a dorm. I can’t wait to meet a roommate and decorate the dorm!
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
Future Business Leaders of America.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college?
I’m excited to find a deeper independence but also a more social side of myself.
What majors are you considering and why?
Advertising and management because I have a very creative mind and I enjoy being a leader, so I’d like to learn about how a bit more.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I toured the campus and I love the Boulevard!
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Go with your heart and let the rest fall in line. Pick a place that feels the most like home.
Where are you going to live next year?
On campus!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The campus feel.
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, music industry graduate
4 Out-Of-State First Year Students Share Why They Chose Rowan
Today we speak with four out-of-state first year students about why they chose a university further from home and their experiences here at Rowan. Abby Riley, a first-generation student and Exercise Science major from Elkton, Maryland, shares the value of attending an out-of-state university. Abby says, “I considered and chose an out-of-state university because I […]
Alumni Success: Photography Studio Owner Gabi Previtera
Gabi Previtera, alumna and current photographer and business owner, shares her experience at Rowan and her journey starting her own business from the ground up. Gabi graduated from Rowan in winter of 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, but her story only starts there.
“I actually started out shooting portraits in a mere 200-square-foot space in my parents’ dining studio!” Gabi reminisces, who now works as a full-time photographer. “As my business started to grow, I knew I’d need to move into a larger studio and now I’m excited to have a much bigger space.”
Not sure what she wanted to pursue at first, Gabi changed her major while at Rowan. “I originally wanted to be a marine biologist, but I was doodling too much in biology classes and not paying attention at all. I realized I probably shouldn’t pursue this route anymore and maybe go into the art field since I’ve always been an artsy person. I tried that, and of course my parents told me that I need to go into a degree that makes money, so that’s where the graphic design part came in.”
Gabi started her business, Endless Smiles Photography LLC, after she realized that she wanted to do more than graphic design and expand into working as her own boss.
“Being a business owner is tough, but is great. You never stop working!” Gabi explains. “I’m a perfectionist so I really like to be able to do what I want, how I want, and on my own schedule.” Some months she has more than 100 shoots while other months are dedicated solely to newborn sessions.
“My proudest moment actually happened early today. I finally reached a big financial goal I thought I’d never make. I did this all on my own. I paid my own bills, got my own clients, built up referrals through word of mouth because of how I treat my clients and the service I offer,” says Gabi.
Gabi believes in investing in education each year because you never stop learning in the field. Whether it be art classes, finding a strong mentor, or getting your first camera and watching videos to learn, education is important.
“For anyone starting out, please don’t go into debt for this. You don’t have to have the best equipment, don’t let others fool you. Pay whatever you can to learn through workshops and practice. Learn what you can, replicate your favorites, and never stop growing.”
Looking back at her time at Rowan, Gabi reminisces about the lifelong friendships she’s made. “I absolutely love my friends that I made at Rowan. We would all hangout in the art areas together and just make stuff. I keep in touch with them still.”
The biggest advice Gabi shares with creatives is, “Charge your worth, figure out what you want to do and make it happen. Art is a field with careers, so choose the major you want. Don’t just give out photoshoots or give your work out for free — know your worth.”
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Story by:
Caitlyn Dickinson, senior public relations and advertising double major
Meet Transfer Profs: Business Management Major Brett Fleming
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.
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior, music industry major
Photos by:
Joe Gentempo, senior art major
Beyond The Classroom: Business Major Joe Sansone Secures Virtual Internship
Joe Sansone, a senior Business Management and Marketing double major from Monmouth County, shares his experience at his virtual internship with Clearbridge Branding Agency and how he manages his busy schedule.
Do you feel that Rowan provided you with the necessary skills and education to help secure your internship?
I feel like with business majors there is an emphasis on networking and marketing yourself and your resume and just putting yourself out there. We do a lot of group projects so I think that prepares you, too. Communicating with other people who are different from you and working together, I definitely felt prepared with my education.
How did you secure your internship?
I had a pretty tough time finding an internship, so I was applying to a bunch of different ones. Even though I’m not a Communications major, they have a match program for internships [through Profs Jobs], so I talked to someone in the Communications department and they set me up on this interview with [Clearbridge] and I ended up getting it.
What do you love the most about your internship?
I like how they are very flexible around my schedule. I think they’re very respectful to me in the way they communicate with me. My boss is very attentive, polite and respectful yet still laid back and casual at the same time.
How did you become interested in business?
Going into college I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I thought about doing social science, law and justice, or emergency preparedness but I kind of thought about what I was good at. I think for my life and in high school I loved being involved in the school through different clubs and I noticed I liked the leadership position in these clubs. I think Business Management is similar to that.
Is there anyone in your industry that you admire or inspire you?
A lot of my professors have been sources of inspiration for me. They have been industry professionals and bring a lot of experience and examples into the classroom. I think going into college everyone told me, “Oh, your professors are going to be so hard on you, you can’t do what you did in high school.” I think it’s the complete opposite. I think that there’s a level of respect that they have for us and we have for them. I’m motivated and excited to learn because of how nice they are and how informative they are to us.
What do you think is the most important to skill to have in your industry?
Willingness to learn. You can’t go into it thinking that you’re going to know everything, going into it open to challenge yourself and willing to be wrong and learning from that is really important.
How do you handle your time in and out of the classroom?
I just write things down and cross them off as I go. I have a really good memory too, I just know what I need to do in my head. It’s a lot of discipline between my time here. I think every year prepares you for the next. It’s being able to know that I don’t always need to hangout with my friends if I have something to get done but I also can let an assignment wait a little and go out and get my mind off things too. It’s just being responsible and having an end goal in sight.
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Story by:
Caitlyn Dickinson, senior public relations major
Photos by:
Joe Gentempo, senior art major
Beyond the Classroom: Woman in Business, Management and Marketing Major Lexi Jubin
Junior Lexi Jubin from Monroe Township in Middlesex County, NJ shares her experience about being a woman in business. She is a Management and Marketing major with a certificate of undergraduate study in Entrepreneurial and Independent Media.
Lexi Jubin’s calendar is filled with office hours, events and leadership meetings. Her extracurricular involvement is extensive, as she is a Resident Assistant in Mimosa Hall, the Marketing Director of Student University Programmers (SUP), a part of the American Marketing Association, the Society for Advancement of Management, and has an outside internship at Soccer Therapy NYC. It’s safe to say that Lexi is taking advantage of the opportunities provided at Rowan.
When Lexi was asked about her experience being a woman in a predominantly male field, she shared her honest feedback. “Most of my classes have male students, so the women are usually outnumbered. I definitely notice a difference when we are in virtual breakout rooms. I feel like sometimes I have to stand my ground and talk over people, but I always make sure my voice is heard. That’s one of the reasons I am so involved; I try to let my knowledge and experience speak for itself so I don’t need to prove anything to anyone.”
Lexi talks fondly about one of her favorite professors, Dr. Guner, who is the head of the marketing department at Rowan. “Dr. Guner is an example of another strong woman in business. She can easily hold the attention of the class because she’s so outspoken and interesting and carries herself so well. She is such a role model for me.
As you could’ve probably guessed, Lexi has some big goals after graduation. “My ultimate goal is to work in marketing for national aquariums or to have my own small businesses. I would also love to help other small businesses compete by doing their digital marketing for them,” Lexi says.
She adds that Rowan has given her the tools to achieve those goals. “My experiences as a student employee have helped me so much. I’ve learned communication skills, flexibility, time management, and most importantly: confidence. Given the opportunity to head the marketing for Student University Programmers (SUP) shows me I have the ability to lead a team as well as demonstrate marketing practices.”
Her coursework has also given her some great opportunities. “In the Rohrer College of Business, we are required to attend networking events. This allows me to expand my connections and gives me a chance to update my LinkedIn profile.”
Lexi shares some powerful advice to other women who want to enter the field of business. She says “you deserve respect, you deserve to be heard, and you deserve to be there.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
Meet #Rowan2025: Shawn Lorenzo Sanders Seeks to Stay Active on Campus
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.
What majors are you considering?
Business Management, Physical Therapy, Marketing or Psychology.
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I visited Rowan and knew it was perfect for me.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Go take a tour in person! It makes all the difference.
Where are you going to live next year?
I’ll commute from home.
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The modern buildings, the suburban campus, high-tech labs and the small community feel.
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Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Meet #Rowan2025: Philadelphia Native Bella Guerriero
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.
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Story by: Bianca Torres, Senior Music Industry major
Thriving In My Faith As A College Student
Today we hear from Rowan students and how they are involved in their faith on campus. They are involved in clubs such as Catholic Campus Ministry, Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship, and Hillel.
Amanda McNally is a freshman Athletic Training major from Tabernacle, NJ (Burlington County). Amanda is involved with Catholic Campus Ministry. She says that “just going to the meetings alone, and the student masses every Saturday, I have had the opportunity to hear from speakers, such as religious sisters and a married couple, and talk with a bunch of other students who are my age and share the same beliefs as me. It is really nice to be able to talk about my faith with other people my age and go to mass with other people away from home. I have noticed in this first semester that all of the members are there by choice. In high school, people went to my youth group and their parents made them go, but it’s great to be with people who want to be there and follow their faith.”
Morgan McRae a junior Music Therapy major from Forked River, NJ (Ocean County), is also involved with Catholic Campus Ministry. Morgan says that it was nice to connect and bond with people over something deeper than surface level. “I never really had Catholic friends before, I went to a public school, so that was a big change for me. I feel like I can talk about different aspects of my faith and feel accepted.” She also discusses the different kinds of activities and discussions they have. “Before March, we used to have different activities. When March came, everything moved online. Rebekah Hardy, our Director of Campus Ministry, and Father Rossi, the pastor at Saint Bridget’s University Parish, did a great job of picking topics that are just as impactful online as in person.”
Carley Robinson a junior Psychological Sciences major with a neuroscience minor from Marlton, NJ (Burlington County) is involved with Catholic Campus Ministry, as well as Chi Alpha. “Catholic Campus Ministry has meetings every week to discuss different topics in the Catholic faith. We learn about one sacrament, belief, or doctrine in the Catholic faith in each meeting. We usually have a retreat every semester for a weekend, as well. On the retreats, we have many more Catholic activities such as mass, adoration, listening to talks, and getting to know other Catholics in the Rowan community in a special way. There is a college student mass on Saturday night at 4:30 pm at Saint Bridget’s University Parish. There is a bible study every other Thursday as well. I also am involved with the Christian club Chi Alpha. They have bible studies, and praise and worship every week.” She says that over quarantine, she was able to take time and make sure her foundation was in God. “During 2020, I was able to have the perception of it being a challenge, rather than something to destroy your faith, and I think that helped me. As a Catholic, you want to have God as your foundation, so being alone and separated from people is a good opportunity to work on that and see where your priorities really are and see if your foundation really is on God.”
Brianna Broadwater is a freshman Psychology major from Bel Air, Maryland, and a new Catholic. She completed the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) over the summer at a church in her hometown, and now she loves being part of the Rowan Catholic community. “Catholic Campus Ministry has honestly helped me make the most friends and helps me get to do a lot of things, especially during the pandemic. We haven’t gotten to do as much, but there is still Newman Night every Wednesday, and we have group chats. We have a whole freshmen group chat dedicated to freshmen from the club, and we all talk and eat good food. We get to help each other with anything we are going through and tell each other stories and make each other laugh. It is amazing.” I have gotten to thrive more in my faith this year because I have been able to go to Newman every Wednesday, and I go to the bible studies on Thursdays sometimes. I also go to the student mass on Saturdays, and I have been able to cantor for that. I have been very involved in church, and I have been able to have more of a prayer life. I have started a prayer journal about things that are important to me, and goals. I have started getting more involved in my faith.”
Steven Douglass a sophomore Chemistry major from Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County) is also involved in Catholic Campus Ministry. “Catholic Campus Ministry gives me a community of like-minded people and it helps to have a good friend group that has the same beliefs as you.”
Alex Herschman is a junior Management and Marketing major from Marlboro, NJ (Monmouth County). She just finished her term as vice president of Hillel, and began serving as president. “I began going to Hillel as a freshman and loved it ever since attending my first event, which made me eager to join Hillel’s executive board. I started off as the organization’s social media chair, then served as the vice president and now president.” She says that Hillel gave her a sense of belonging at Rowan. “Hillel gave me that Jewish community and sense of belonging on campus. We are all super close, and I feel comfortable with them, and it is nice to have something in common with each other. If I am on campus and not at home, I can celebrate the Jewish holidays with the community at Hillel. During Passover, we do a seder, and for Yom Kippur, we were able to do an outside break fast event, which was very nice, because it was on a Monday and I was not able to go home. It was great to spend the holiday with my fellow Hillel members when I couldn’t go home and spend it with my family.”
Christa Ouellette a senior Civil and Environmental Engineering major from Delanco, NJ (Burlington County), is also a part of the Catholic Campus Ministry. “Catholic Campus Ministry has opened up so many doors for me. One of the greatest things that Catholic Campus Ministry has done for me spiritually is the group discussions and retreats we do. These guided retreats we do one weekend a semester are just us and we get to step away from the world for a bit and reconnect spiritually. We also do different trips sometimes. In 2018 or 2019, we went to the border in Texas and we volunteered with the Humanitarian Respite Center, and we got to help refugees that were recently released by ICE. That was really awesome.”
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Header photo courtesy of:
Pixabay
Rowan’s Business Certificate, MBA Programs an Ideal Pairing for Marc Castrillon, Future HR Pro
Today we feature Marc Castrillon, a Rowan Global student pursuing his master’s degree in business administration (MBA). Here, Marc talks about his Rowan experience and how completing the Business Certificate of Graduate Study launched him into the MBA program and, soon, a dream career.
Marc Castrillon didn’t envision himself in a Rowan MBA cohort when he first entered the Rohrer College of Business as an undergraduate just five short years ago. Yet by this spring, he will have amassed three degrees, one certificate of graduate study, two field experiences and numerous professional connections through a student leadership role.
He’s now confidently on his way to a career in human resources management. “If I knew what I know now, two years ago, or a year ago, I would have had even less hesitation and been even more excited for the graduate program,” he says.
Marc’s graduate journey began with a major change as a business undergrad. He arrived to the Rowan as a Marketing major. In speaking with his sister, whose career is in human resources, and others in the profession, Marc discovered he was interested in the same line of work. After taking HR-intensive courses, Marc added the Human Resources Management major to his undergraduate degree in Management.
With a path in motion, Marc initially researched human resources advanced degrees to build upon his knowledge base; but he discovered other area HR master’s programs were “three or four times the price and a lot of extra requirements.”
Casting a wider net, Marc found an option with Rowan Global’s Business Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS), which checked off a few boxes. He took the required five courses and, upon admittance into the MBA, transferred the credits into its larger, broader business degree. The accelerated pace of just 15 credits also meant Marc could complete the program quickly, which he says he felt compelled to do soon after graduation.
“At the time, I was already on a roll with school, and I was performing at a really high pace and getting good grades. I didn’t want to go and work for a few years and then come back and lose that momentum,” he says.
Through the COGS program, students who apply and are accepted into Rowan’s MBA may enter without a standardized test requirement — an admissions component Marc also appreciated. “I knew that if I went through the COGS program, and I performed as well as I had been doing in my undergraduate, I wouldn’t have to take the GMAT. And I did not want to take off three to six or … however many months it would take for me to prepare for that test. So that was a major factor in me deciding to go straight into my graduate program,” he explains.
Marc’s choice to pursue the broader Rowan MBA paid off in other ways as well; he’s taken classes outside his human resources track and notes faculty are quick to deliver on new courses based on student feedback he may not have had access to in a more narrow program.
“I think how wide the scale the classes are in the MBA program really shows how much the school cares about its students,” he says. “They recently added entrepreneurship courses that were not previously available — and they became available because a lot of students have been asking for entrepreneurship-type courses.”
The College of Business has tapped Marc to serve as the inaugural Director of Community and Membership for the Rohrer Graduate Student and Alumni Advisory Board. According to its website, “Members are actively engaged in academics and shared community connections that elevate the student experience and the reputation of Rohrer Graduate Programs.”
In this new role, Marc has leveraged his business skills to lead recruiting, outreach and engagement efforts. He also co-manages a lively LinkedIn account for MBA and M.S. in Finance students and alumni. He enjoys his new position as it closely aligns with his future goals.
“It’s really good for someone who is working within human resources recruiting and retaining membership,” Marc says. “That’s a big component of it — networking events. For now we’re trying to work on online networking events. But I would [also] love the opportunity to create a networking event in person.”
A pandemic has not slowed down Marc’s year-long internship experience with the healthcare company LabCorp, where he is learning to determine executive and sales compensation for employees at the vice president level or above both domestically and abroad.
“I don’t know if I want to stay in compensation; there are other parts of human resources that I want to get into. So following my MBA, I want to get SHRM [Society of Human Resource Management] certification,” Marc says.
Zeroing in on his future, Marc is acutely aware of the importance networking and professional connections have played in his academic life. Until entering the graduate program, he says: “I didn’t realize how much farther [faculty] are willing to go with you to make sure that you succeed.
“Even if it’s outside of their office hours, they will sit with you after class and they’ll explain a problem to you. And they make everybody feel welcome … the whole graduate program feels very inclusive, which to my understanding with my friends who are in other graduate programs, I don’t know if they can say the same.”
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Advice from the Joes of Rowan
Ten Joes of different majors and eight counties share their advice for incoming and current Rowan students.
“Study more than you sleep, sleep more than you have fun, and have as much fun as possible.” – Joe Gummere, senior Mechanical Engineering major from Vernon, NJ (Sussex County, pictured above)
“You’re going to fall down. College is humbling for many people, you just have to be willing to accept the lessons you gain and learn from them.” – Joe Frascella, senior Communication Studies major from Hightstown, NJ (Mercer County)
“Don’t over stress but don’t under stress. Take it easy and just get assignments done on time. It also helps immensely to befriend your professor[s].” – Joe Gentempo, senior Art major from Middletown, NJ (Monmouth County)
“Put yourself out there, try something new. I know going in I was really quiet and shy. Then I found the best on-campus job (Rec Center), became a part of a sport club (Ultimate Frisbee) and now I’m president of the organization.” – First-generation college student, Joe D’Intino, junior Chemical Engineering student from Medford, NJ (Burlington County)
“Be open to making new friends at any time and in any place, this will lead you to try new things and join new clubs.” – sophomore Joe Kayal, Civil Engineering major from Mahwah, NJ (Bergen County)
“My advice would be to never compare yourself to anyone and never be discouraged by a missed opportunity. Take your life in college day by day, set goals and never be afraid to lean on your peers/professors for support.” – Joe Sansone, senior Business Management and Marketing major from Howell, NJ (Monmouth County)
“Making friends is scary for EVERYONE. Don’t be afraid to ask to sit with strangers. You may just get a best friend out of it! The advisors at Rowan are invaluable resources. Ask them for information on clubs the campus offers and show up. The busier you are, the better your college experience.” – Joseph Breymeier, MBA student from Mount Laurel, NJ (Burlington County)
“The best thing that you can do is get involved! In spite of the current situation, Rowan is still offering plenty of clubs and activities that are easy to join and give you a great way to meet new friends and feel more comfortable with taking this big step in your life. I was nervous about going to Rowan and not knowing many people, but once I joined the Roller Hockey Club, I felt right at home!” – Joe Carriero, sophomore Finance major from Swedesboro, NJ (Gloucester County)
“Don’t play it safe with choosing your major. I used to be a Bio major because it was the ‘safe’ option. The only problem with that was … I hate biology. I love movies, writing and storytelling. So I picked a major that reflects my passions. When I enter my career field, I’ll get a job that I enjoy, and not just make money at; and if you enjoy your job you’re not really ‘working,’ are you? Do what you love, and good luck, class of 2024.” – First-generation college student Joe Hunt, senior Radio/TV/Film (RTF) major from Audubon, NJ (Camden County)
“Be outgoing and make friends in your major! You will be in the same classes a lot and getting to know them will help with homework, studying and making your classes enjoyable. A friend that I met on my first day at Rowan ended up being my roommate senior year. Maintain a balanced workload by taking an easy or fun class each semester. If you think you are overdoing it, it’s okay to drop a class; summer classes helped me stay on pace.” – M.S. in Computer Science major Joe Hammer from Toms River, NJ (Ocean County)
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Header photo: Joe Gummere, senior mechanical engineering major
Story by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
TRANSFERmation Tuesday: College of Business Double Major Christina Wilgus
Today’s TRANSFERmation Tuesday features Christina Wilgus, a junior transfer from Rowan College at Gloucester County. Christina is a Management and Human Resources Management major who commutes to Rowan from Woolwich Township, NJ (Gloucester County).
How would you tell a fellow student interested in your major that they’re choosing a worthwhile field?
I would tell a fellow student interested in Management and Human Resources Management that they’re choosing a worthwhile field because there are no limits to what you can do. Majoring in Management equips you to work in every type of professional setting. I chose this field for the never-ending opportunities. Every industry has a business side, so there are no restrictions on the fields you can work in. I also find myself learning real-life lessons that are beneficial outside of business, that I may not learn in a different major. I often find myself in these instances during my law and finance classes.
In high school, I had thought about majoring in Human Resources because I love interacting and communicating with others. However, I was nervous to commit to a major that was a bit narrow, so I decided to begin college as a Management major. But, when I transferred to Rowan they made it possible for me to do both without any extra classes. I am especially thankful for this opportunity because I never expressed to anyone at Rowan my interest in HR, but they sought me out. I received an email stating that many Management majors may be able to fill their electives with HR classes and fulfill the requirements for both majors. I was lucky enough to be one of those cases. If it wasn’t for the employees at Rowan actively looking to improve the quality of their students’ education, I would have never thought to pursue this opportunity. So, if you are a transfer student or freshman Management major I strongly suggest you consider this opportunity!
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned in your major this year?
The most interesting thing I learned about my major this year is how to adapt. Everyone is currently in the same situation with learning online because of campus closures due to Covid-19. For me, and many business students, we still have group projects that have remained group projects. This has forced us to adapt by communicating via text, FaceTime and Zoom. I believe this experience has better prepared us for the event of collaborating with co-workers on a project who may not live near us. In those situations, we will be forced to work together solely through technology. These instances also occur outside of a global pandemic, so it is a great skill for us to pick up and master during this time.
Why did you choose Rowan?
I chose Rowan for the great education I could receive so close to home. They had just built the new, beautiful building for the Rohrer College of Business and I had heard nothing but great things about Rowan’s business program. My brother graduated from Rowan in 2012 with a degree in Management so I also got to see first-hand how great the school was and how much they were expanding. I am only in my second semester at Rowan, but I am confident that I made the right decision to continue my education here. Rowan has become so much more than our local university, and I am glad I get to be a part of its student body.
What are you most looking forward to at Rowan next year?
Next year I am looking forward to getting more involved. I came from a small high school and then went to community college, and I was very involved in both schools. This past fall I was adjusting to being at a bigger school and didn’t realize just how much there was to get involved in.
My goal for this semester was to join a few clubs and be active on campus but unfortunately, that will have to wait until next semester. I look forward to my senior year. Rowan has provided me with so much help and guidance in preparing for my career, so I can’t wait to get back on campus in the fall!
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Story by:
Nicole Cier, writing arts graduate
#PROFspective: Degree in 3 Grad Now Earning MBA
Today we feature Victoria Ieradi, a third-generation Rowan student (her paternal grandfather, maternal grandmother, father, brother and cousin all attended or currently attend Rowan). From Mount Laurel, NJ (Burlington County), Victoria is a graduate student in the master’s in business administration (MBA) program with a management concentration, after earning a bachelor of science in marketing in three years through our Degree in 3 program. Before the campus closed in response to COVID-19, Victoria lived in 220 Rowan Boulevard.
On-campus job? I worked at the Rohrer Center for Professional Development as a marketing intern for three years. Currently I’m a part-time graduate coordinator for the College of Business and the Wellness Center.
Clubs/Organizations: I was a ProjectNest competition winner. I pitched free colon cancer screening tests at the Rowan Medical Clinic in Lindenwold. I also compete with Rowan club swim, and was a part of the American Marketing Association and the Outdoors Club during undergrad.
Take us through one typical Rowan day for you.
My typical day at Rowan usually starts with waking up, then getting dressed and ready for the day while I make a cup of coffee. I grab a quick breakfast and walk to either Business Hall or the Wellness Center, depending on what job I am reporting to. I work from 10 – 3 then go back to my apartment to get some homework done. I make dinner in my apartment and walk to class. The MBA program has all night classes, online, or hybrid, so it is really convenient to those who work full time.
If my class is one of the hybrid courses, you can find me driving to my hometown where we meet for the class in person for half the semester at the RCBC campus in Mount Laurel. I’ll spend the late evening with my parents and then drive back to my on-campus apartment. If it is a Monday or Wednesday, I take my swim bag with me to class and go to the Rec Center to go to club swim practice. Here, I hang out with my teammates and get a great workout in.
Once I am settled into the apartment for the night, I make a cup of tea and watch Netflix or the news with my roommates (it seems like it is the only time they get to see me as I am out most of the day). Having a schedule that is pretty much full actually helps me focus on my homework, assignments, papers, and studying for exams. If I had too much time to myself, I would get distracted. Being busy may not work for everyone, but it definitely keeps me on task. During the weekends, I try to spend time with my friends and boyfriend outside if the weather is nice! We like to go hiking, skiing, rock climbing (at a gym or outside), and kayaking.
Why did you chose your major?
I chose this major because I want to work in product/brand management, where you develop the voice of a brand and how consumers perceive it. I also have an interest in healthcare management, and I knew that an MBA would be really beneficial for me to get into that field if I wanted to later on in my career.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned this year in one of your classes?
The most interesting thing I have learned in my classes this year has been through my class Managing Organizational Strategy. My professor uses a lot of real time examples and helps teach us using current topics as to how not only internal, but external, factors can affect the success of a company. Especially as times are rapidly changing for corporations big and small right now, I am able to see what we learn in class being applied to companies every day.
Tell us about one moment that made you feel that Rowan was the right fit for you:
One moment that made Rowan feel like the right college for me was freshman year on my birthday. My birthday is early in September, so I didn’t think I had close enough friends yet to celebrate. I called my mom a little sad that I wasn’t going to have a good time as I was walking to my statistics class that night. I got back to Holly Pointe and sat on the floor to wallow in self pity. Then, my roommate at the time (now forever friend), came bursting through the door with people from our pod and people I knew from high school with a cookie cake and chocolate covered pretzels! It made me feel so welcome I was grinning ear to ear knowing I was a Prof, had a new family, and belonged at Rowan University!
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Julia McAleavey, senior advertising major
First Year Voices: Football & Friendship
“We’ve been playing football together since we were 6,” says freshman Jared Armitage, a business management major from Estell Manor, NJ (Atlantic County) of his Magnolia Hall roommate, Chris Doughty of Buena, NJ (Atlantic County).
“We both played for Rowan this year,” Jared continues. It was fun living with someone he’s known since childhood, he says. “It was never boring. We just goof around with everyone in the dorm, playing poker. My favorite memory from this year is goofing off in the dorms. Our whole floor in Magnolia – and someone brought water guns. We started spraying each other, and getting water bottles and throwing them at each other. (We cleaned it up, of course.)”
At orientation, Jared’s randomly assigned roommate was Pavneet Singh, a freshman entrepreneurship major from Carteret, NJ (Middlesex County.)
Jared shares, “We didn’t really talk much to each other at first. But, then we were both sitting there bored at 1:00 in the morning and said, ‘Hey, do you want to do something funny?’ and we ran around the hallways.”
Along the way, the friends met Jeron, known as Smooth (on left). Jared says, “Chris met him here, but he lives close to us at home. Pretty sure we played football against him in school, but we didn’t know it. “
Next year Jared and Chris will commute from home, instead of living on campus. “I’m going to carpool with Chris,” says Jared, “because I’ll drive past Chris to get to school.”
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Interning Remotely as a Business Management Major
Welcome to our series to give you a glimpse into Rowan University, our campus culture, and the lives of our students, while we’re practicing social distancing to protect society from the spread of COVID-19. Today’s story is from senior Alyssa Marroccoli, who transferred to Rowan after beginning her college career at the University of Rhode Island. Alyssa is a business management major who rents a home off campus and is originally from Newton, NJ (Sussex County).
When looking to complete a second internship before graduating with my bachelor’s of science in Business Management in May, I decided it was the perfect time to get involved in my family’s business. My father is the President and CEO of National Forensic Consultants, a forensic investigation firm that provides expert investigation services for the legal, insurance, product manufacturing and construction industries. I am currently positioned in the South Jersey office in Pennsauken, NJ as a Business Development and Sales Intern for the spring semester, where I have been learning about the company’s structure and how to successfully manage a business.
I have been working under my supervisor, Vice President of Business Development and Sales, Dean Gentner, where I have been developing a business plan to increase messaging between our clients and experts, as well as maintaining our partnerships and client relations.
Our goal has been to grow our bridge of communication via email and through phone conversations, where we inform our clients about our newly added experts, as well as educate them about our other wide range of services that we offer.
Several duties I have as an intern at NFC consist of selecting clients to receive the appropriate messages and put forth content relating toward those receiving them, developing a variety of scripts to appease the particular company or law firm I am offering services to, following up with clients and providing requested information about our experts and services, and working with management to develop different approaches in their business development strategies.
As National Forensic Consultants’ first intern, two major takeaways I have gotten from this program are how to professionally connect with people and get an internal perspective of how a business and its employees are managed.
I was lucky enough to be given the responsibility in assisting with the development of the internship program itself when working with my supervisor throughout my time at NFC.
It has been both challenging, as well as rewarding, to have the opportunity to see my plan for the program be considered so seriously. It is a great privilege to be respected so highly, even as an intern, at such an established company.
I truly enjoy my work at NFC, and love to see the results of adding new clients and regaining previous one’s attention, yield such positive effects for the company. I really like the corporate aspect of my job that I didn’t get to experience as much of in my previous internship. My coworkers also made my experience so welcoming and fun.
Working remotely has had its challenges in terms of getting accustomed to such a different routine. I miss being in the office and going to classes during the week, which I always seemed to take for granted when I felt so busy and consumed with responsibilities. I’m very grateful to be in a position where my work can be adapted to being completed remotely, and to not have my program be discontinued, where others are not so lucky. Personally, I like to get ready and dressed as if I was going to the office to feel more motivated to complete my work day. Another aspect I appreciate when working from home is the opportunity to work with my dad each day that I’m ‘in office.’ Where I usually only got to see him once every couple of weeks while working in South Jersey, I now get in-person advice, opinions and assistance during my work day that many cannot.
National Forensic Consultants offers a service in a range of industries with incidents that do not stop occurring, even during a pandemic. It is truly amazing to see this organization come together so quickly to make themselves available for their customers under these trying circumstances. I believe how a business responds and adapts to a changing environment says a lot about a company’s stability and value it holds. While no one could have predicted such a rapid interruption in our daily lives, one of which most of us have never seen in this lifetime, it really is a privilege to be a part of a company who puts forth the best business practices, while still keeping their employees safe and working, when most cannot be.
I am so appreciative of the opportunities National Forensic Consultants has given me, and look forward to apply all that I have learned in this internship program when I begin my full-time job post-graduation as a Management Trainee at Enterprise Rent-A-Car!
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Siblings At Rowan: Madison and Sophia Agostini
Today, we launch a Siblings at Rowan series with sisters Madison and Sophia Agostini.
Names: Madison and Sophia Agostini
Majors/Minors: Madison: Elementary Education and Literacy Studies dual major. Sophia: Business Management major, Law and Justice minor
Years in school: M: 5th year S: Senior
Hometown and County: Washington Township, Gloucester County
Do you commute? If not, where do you live? S: Both. I live on campus, and Madison lived on campus, but now she commutes.
M: I lived on campus for four years, but since I’m student teaching, it made more sense for me to live at home this year since I don’t spend as much time on campus.
Social clubs each of you is a part of: M: I am the President of Kappa Delta Pi, a teacher honors society, and I am a member of Circle K, a volunteer club. I also write for HerCampus, a girls’ college website, and I’m an Admissions Ambassador.
S: I’m on the executive board of the Pre-Law Society. I’m also the undergraduate coordinator for the Food Bank of South Jersey
On-campus jobs: S: We both work in Admissions.
Why did you choose Rowan? M: At first I didn’t like that it was close to home, but then it started to feel nice that I could go home whenever I wanted. I wanted to go further away, but the first year of the Rowan Choice program was my year, so I was able to do that program and not spend as much. It’s great to go to a school with big school opportunities but small school class sizes.
S: I would agree with that, I really like the small class sizes. I didn’t really apply to many schools and I felt I knew Rowan pretty well because Madison already went here and I had already been on campus twice before I applied. It felt like the natural choice.
How has having your sister at Rowan with you impacted your college career? S: It always gave us someone we could go to that wasn’t our roommates. It was good to have a change of scenery and a new voice to 
hear. It was definitely better than having to pick up the phone. It’s nice.
M: My sophomore year and her freshman here I lived in Edgewood and she lived in Chestnut, which was a minute walk from each other, and that year she had no kitchen and no air conditioning so she would come over if her room was hot or she wanted a meal that wasn’t dining hall food or made in a microwave. It was also nice to run into each other on campus or just see each other.
What is your favorite part about going to Rowan together? S: I like that we’re similar and we do similar things on campus, and it also showed us how different we are at the same time. We aren’t really in any of the same clubs despite being on campus together. It allowed us to be strong as 
individuals but still grow side by side.
M: I think that we have similar qualities and we do some of the same things, but we also bring similar qualities to the different things we do. We also have some friends in common, but also different friends. S: We do our own thing, but it’s nice to have someone supporting you along the way.
What are some favorite memories about being together on campus or funny sibling stories? M: Hanging out with our other sister on campus is a nice memory that we have together.
S: It was also nice when Madison invited me over for dinner a lot.
M: It was also cool that when Sophia turned 21 I was able to come over and spend the night with her and her friends.
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Story and photography by:
Rachel Rumsby, freshman communication studies and public relations double major
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Zac Chalow
“Everybody is super helpful here since I have transferred. They’re willing to help and they truly want you to be successful, so it’s easy to talk to them and get advice from others.” Zac Chalow, a junior business management major from Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County). Zac transferred from Rowan College at Gloucester County last semester.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Photo by: Nicole Cier, junior writing arts major
#PROFspective: Marketing and Management Major Michael Viola
Name: Michael Viola Majors: Marketing and Management dual major Year: Senior, Class of 2019 Hometown and County: Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County) Resident: 220 Rowan Blvd. Academic and Social Clubs: I am currently the Student Body Vice President which means that I also have the privilege to serve as the Executive Vice President of the […]
TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Sophia Agostini
Meet Sophia Agostini, a junior management major with a minor in law and justice studies from Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County.) Why did you choose Rowan? “I chose Rowan because of the Rowan Choice program. It allows me to take classes at Rowan College at Gloucester County (RCGC), while living on Rowan’s campus. Its a […]
Prof Style: Quinton Palms
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#PROFspective: Marketing & Management Major Kylie Kieffer
Today, we speak with Kylie Kieffer, a senior marketing and management major from Hamilton, NJ (Mercer County) who lives off campus in a house with Rowan athletes. Kylie will share her#PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she got the most out of her college experience as a […]
#PROFspective: Business Management and Human Resources Dual Major Elizabeth Nelsen
Today, we speak with Elizabeth Nelsen, a junior business management and human resources major from Edison, NJ (Middlesex County) who lives on campus at 220 Rowan Boulevard. Elizabeth will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she’s getting the most out of her college experience […]
Register Now! Day of Service Honoring MLK
Remember Martin Luther King’s influence on our country by registering to participate in Rowan’s MLK Day of Service on Monday. The event takes place 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in Hawthorn. Volunteers will make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, gather white tube socks and make placements to donate to emergency food provider Cathedral Kitchen in Camden. […]
#PROFspective: Business Management and Entrepreneurship Major Alexia Thorpe
Today, we speak with Alexia Thorpe, a freshman business management and entrepreneurship major from Lawrence (Mercer County), NJ, who lives on campus in Mimosa Hall. Alexia will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she’s getting the most out of her college experience as a […]
#PROFspective: Management, Marketing & HR Management Major Ryan Klohr
Today we speak with Ryan Klohr, a senior triple major (management, marketing and human resources management) from Ocean Township, Monmouth County, who lives off campus. Ryan will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how he’s getting the most out of his college experience as a […]