chestnut hall

First Year Voices: Fall Edition

Posted on by Nene Diallo
Campus beauty autumnal photo.

Today we feature first year Rowan students Destinee Hines, Jake Brandenburg, Abbie Ealer and Sam Skripko — each with a unique sense of style, sharing their experiences and ambitions for the school year.

Destinee posing with a peace sign
Notice Destinee’s TLC shirt? She enjoys listening to 90s music.

“My year’s been good, had a couple ups and downs, but it’s getting better. I went to pop-up shops and I hope to get into more activities on campus. Rowan’s been good to me and I like the people here. I definitely want to get engaged and have more fun.” – Destinee Hines, Radio/Television/Film major from Camden, NJ (Camden County)

Jake poses with his sunglasses
Jake Brandenburg recommended the crossed arm and sunglasses pose.

“My freshman year so far has been unexpected, but I mean how could you expect college life if you never experienced it right? Anyways, I did a couple things like going to Bingo Night. I didn’t get any matches but it was really fun. By the end of this year, I’m looking forward to having a solid group of friends. I do have a few people right now but I want to build more friendships. So far I like it here, I’m having a great time.” – Jake Brandenburg, Management major and first-generation college student from Haddonfield, NJ (Camden County)

Abbie is holding a beanie baby.
Abbie Ealer enjoys bringing Hoot the owl around campus.

“I’m trying to get used to my class schedule and navigating college especially being a commuter; therefore I’m not here often. The most interesting thing is that my best friend from childhood goes here all well, so I get to spend so much more time with her. Since I’m in the honors college, I’m really excited to explore all the opportunities the program offers like the Think Thrive events. I’ll have more time in the spring semester, so I’m looking forward to engaging myself more on campus.” – Abbie Ealer, History major, commuter from Turnersville, NJ (Gloucester County)

Sam" holds" the water tower
Sam Skripko is fluent in Russian.

“I love the campus, although I felt a little down and catching up was challenging because of missing work, but now I’m all caught up. I’m thinking of joining Rowan’s hockey team since I already play the sport and I’m a referee. By the end of my freshman year, I hope to learn more about my major.” – Sam Skripko, Computer Science major from Fair Lawn, NJ (Bergen County). 

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Story by:
Nene Diallo, senior, public relations major

Photos by:
Nick Flagg, senior, theater and advertising major 

Header Photo by: 
Missy Pavorsky, junior advertising major





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3 Rowan RAs Share Their Favorite Programs

Posted on by Loredonna Fiore

Resident Assistants, or RAs, are tasked with creating programs to connect residents with each other and the greater Rowan community. Each program is designed specifically and intentionally by the RA of the floor to promote a sense of belonging in the residence hall. Here are some programs that RAs loved to host for their residents. 

Junior Keianna Williams, an RA in Chestnut Hall, shared her favorite program titled “Self Reflection.”

“I displayed a mirror outside of my room and then made a heart full of sticky notes. Each resident was asked to write something they loved about themselves in a sticky note displayed on the wall. I then handed out tiny pocket mirrors for them to keep. I told them that every time they opened the mirror, they should say something nice about themselves. This program helped promote self-esteem and self love. I also loved that it included Rowan Thrive, a wellness initiative on campus attributes of purpose.” 

Keianna Williams
Keianna Williams

Sydney Ramos, a junior RA in Mimosa Hall, shared that her favorite program that she has done is a Black Lives Matter Brave space.

“This was a program that encouraged an open discussion on issues surrounding racial injustice in our communities. It also was a space where those who did not know much about the BLM movement could understand what it was and gain information and resources to have a better understanding as to why the BLM movement is so important. I had a decent outcome with residents, and they were happy to be able to have a discussion on issues that sometimes are hard to talk about. I was even interviewed by The Whit for a featured article about my program.”

Sydney Ramos
Sydney Ramos

Alyssa Salera, a senior RA in Holly Pointe Commons, described her favorite program that combined fun with important conversations about relationships.

“We had a Bachelor finale watch party. My residents all loved the show, both my male and female students, so we all got together, snacked on a bunch of food and desserts, and talked about the show and everything it encompassed. I loved seeing how excited they got about who the star chose to get engaged to, as each of my residents had a personal preference. We then talked about toxic relationships and the importance of mental health in regards to how it pertains to the show, they were all so involved in the conversation! It was the most I’ve heard some of my residents speak and be engaged in all semester, so it was great seeing them come out of their shell.”

Alyssa holding goat
Alyssa Salera

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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, senior public relations and advertising major

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Advice From a Rowan RA on the Residence Hall Experience

Posted on by Caitlyn Dickinson
Exterior shot of Chestnut Hall Building

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.

Alex stands on the steps of Bunce Hall.

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.

Alex sits on the steps of Bunce Hall.

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.

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Story by:
Caitlyn Dickinson, senior public relations and advertising major

Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major 

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Alumni Success: New Jersey State Police Sergeant Danyel Barnes

Posted on by Loredonna Fiore
Sgt. Barnes stands in front of a bank of windows.

Danyel Barnes, a 1994 alumnus, shares his Rowan story and how it shaped his life today as a Sergeant with the New Jersey State Police.

Danyel’s college journey is an amazing story in and of itself.

In high school, Danyel considered joining the military and was being recruited by the Army and Air Force. A guidance counselor at Camden High School, Ms. Sanders, encouraged him to apply to college. After getting into Rowan (then Glassboro State College), he told his grandmother that he got accepted but didn’t have the money for school, so he’d have to choose the military. That same day, his grandmother wrote him a check and told him to go to college. 

As you can tell, education was very important in the Barnes’ family. Danyel comes from three generations of college, so he was happy to keep the legacy going. 

Danyel standing by window

When Danyel got to campus, he had an awesome experience. He lived in Chestnut Hall his freshman year and got involved in Greek life early on. Being in a fraternity was one of Danyel’s “musts” going into college, so his second-semester freshman year he pledged Phi Beta Sigma. Danyel speaks about the strength of this brotherhood. “Our kids call each other aunties and uncles. We all keep in touch and are close to this day,” he says.

When asked about any influential people at Rowan, Danyel easily recited a whole list. One of the people mentioned was a former Rowan president. “Herman James was always on the ground with students — we would see him every day in the Student Center just walking around and talking to people, he had a quiet calm about him,” he says. “I learned a lot from the way he carried himself. Professors and staff at Rowan really taught me how to be a benevolent leader.”

Headshot of Sgt. Barnes wearing a state police mask.

Danyel, who majored in Sociology, also mentioned a really influential Women’s and Gender studies course. “Dr. Gallant taught me all about real feminism. I was the only boy who didn’t drop the class because I really wanted to learn.” 

Currently, Danyel serves as a Sergeant for New Jersey State Police. He got into law enforcement from inspiration from his brother and recruiters who visited Rowan’s campus. Danyel got information from the recruiters, passed a written exam, and went to the New Jersey Department of Corrections to start his career. Danyel felt that Rowan prepared him for his career by giving him a strong foundation in writing. He also learned a lot about human behaviors from being a sociology major and taking courses like anthropology. 

Sgt. Barnes stands in front of a bank of windows.

When asked what his advice to graduating Rowan students would be, Danyel says, “Everything you do isn’t about you, it’s about everyone else — you have to give back.” 

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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major

Photos by: Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

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7 Students Share Why They Like Magnolia and Chestnut

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
Exterior shot of Chestnut Hall.

Two of Rowan’s on-campus residence halls, Magnolia and Chestnut, have a lot to offer. We spoke to a few of the residents to see what they like about living there. 

Leena Nesby, a freshman resident at Chestnut, says: “I like Chestnut because the lake is just outside my window, so I like my view. I like that it is really close to Holly [Pointe Commons], which is where my friends and I go to eat a lot of the time. I do like the courtyard, the benches and all the bike racks night there.” Leena is a Nutrition major from Tabernacle, NJ (Burlington County).

A selfie of Leena.

Griffin Roughgarden, a freshman Entrepreneurship major from Caldwell, NJ (Essex County), says that Chestnut is a quiet place to sleep, study and live.

Griffin poses in front of Chestnut.

Christopher Maestoso, a freshman Exploratory Studies major from Fairfield, NJ (Essex County), says that Chestnut is the perfect temperature once the heat of summer passes.  

Christopher poses in front of Chestnut.

Amanda Holzlein, a junior Human Resource Management major from Jackson, NJ (Ocean County) and a Resident Assistant at Chestnut, says that it feels like home. 

Amanda poses in front of Chestnut.

Bryce McMaster, a freshman Explorartory Studies major from Southampton, NJ (Burlington County) and a resident of Magnolia, says that he likes that he only has to share his bathroom with three other residents and that he has his own room, which he really likes. 

Bryce poses in front of Magnolia.

Andrew Mercurio, a freshman Music Education – Instrumental from Kendall Park, NJ (Middlesex County) and a resident at Magnolia Hall, says he likes that it sits right in the middle of where all his classes are and Rowan Boulevard. He likes that convenience.

Andrew poses in front of Magnolia Hall.

Samuel Poku, a freshman Music Industry major from Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County), says: “The main reasons why I do like living at Chestnut are because it is a very cozy environment and quiet. Even though it is an older dorm it still has a great the environment with the people in and around it. I like the location, too, because it is between everything and easy to find everything. The Resident Assistants also do a very good job and make sure students are safe.”

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Story and photography by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major and Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

First student photo courtesy of Lena Nesby

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First Year Voices: Exploratory Studies Major Kevin Duffy

Posted on by Luke Garcia
Kevin stands in front of a tree.

Today we speak with freshman Kevin Duffy from Wayne, NJ (Passaic County) who is currently undecided on what major he wants to pursue. 

How do you like living in Chestnut Hall?

It’s fun, you get the real college feel when you’re living in Chestnut Hall.

Kevin stands in front of Chestnut Hall.

Are your classes remote or hybrid, and how has that adjustment been?

They’re all remote, and I think it’s been a pretty smooth adjustment. I haven’t really had any issues. 

What are you looking forward to for the rest of this semester?

Meeting new people trying out new things — that’s really it. 

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore public relations and communication studies major

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First Year Voices: Noah Garcia

Posted on by Luke Garcia
Noah Garcia smiles in front of trees with orange and green. A white building is close by on the left hand side.

Today we speak with Noah Garcia who is currently an undecided major (exploratory studies). So far Noah has been enjoying being in school and plans to continue to keep up with his school work while getting more involved on campus.

What do you like about living in Chestnut Hall?

It’s the best looking residential building on campus. 100%. I think it’s way nicer than Holly. The fact that it’s from 1984 is cool. Holly is cool but it’s like a hotel. This building’s from 1984 and we’re living here in 2020. 

Have you thought about joining any clubs or organizations on campus?

I’m interested in joining a fraternity. 

Noah poses in front of Chestnut hall wearing a green mask. There is green and white shrubbery around him. There are benches behind him.

Are your classes remote or hybrid and how has that adjustment been?

They are all remote except one class is hybrid. And the adjustment was definitely not the easiest but I think the Zoom classes are much more productive than I thought they would be. 

What are you looking forward to for the rest of this year?

Finish off the rest of the semester good with grades and keep enjoying the college life. It’s going pretty good and I plan on keeping it that way.

Any advice to other freshmen?

Write everything down because there’s a lot of responsibility that hits you at once and it’s easier to remember everything that way. 

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

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First Year Voices: Exploratory Studies Major Christopher Maestoso

Posted on by Luke Garcia
Christopher standing in front of Chestnut Hall. There is green and white shrubbery around him. Trees with green and orange leaves.

Today we feature Chris Maestoso, who has adjusted well so far with living away from home as well as learning remotely. Chris is from Fairfield, NJ (Essex County) and currently residing in Chestnut Hall.

Chris poses in front of Chestnut Hall wearing a blue mask. Green and white shrubbery around him. Tree branch above him.

How do you like living in Chestnut?

It’s been good so far. The beginning was tough because it was really hot but now the temperature cooled down.

Have you thought about joining any clubs or organizations on campus?

I have been looking at fraternities but I haven’t looked at any other groups or organizations on campus. 

Are your classes remote or hybrid, and how has that adjustment been?

All my classes are remote right now [for fall 2020] and the adjustment really hasn’t been that bad, still getting used to it a little bit.

Chris poses in front of green and orange trees while holding mask.

What are you looking forward to for the rest of this semester?

The cold weather coming up. 

Any advice to other freshmen?

You should submit your homework early. 

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

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First Year Voices: Chestnut Hall, Adjusting to College – Griffin Roughgarden

Posted on by Luke Garcia
Griffin poses in a backwards hat in front of orange and green trees.

Today we feature freshman and Chestnut resident Griffin Roughgarden. Griffin is a Business Entrepreneurship major from West Caldwell, NJ (Essex County.)

How do you like living in Chestnut?
It’s really good, actually. It’s pretty quiet, it’s not really a loud place, there’s lots of amenities. It’s kind of the perfect location on campus. 

Have you thought about joining any clubs or organizations on campus
Yeah I plan on joining a fraternity and maybe some clubs but the club fair I don’t think happened this year because of COVID. So hopefully next year I’ll look into a lot of those things.

Griffin gives a thumbs up with a backwards hat in front of Chestnut.

Are your classes remote or hybrid and how has that adjustment been?They’re hybrid. I like the fact that I can choose whether or not I go in or if I’m tired one day I don’t have to go in. It’s kind of nice being able to do it remote if I want to go home.

Griffin gives a double thumbs up wearing a black mask and a black backwards hat. Chestnut hall is in the background.

What are you looking forward to for the rest of this year?
I’m still just meeting new people, creating my schedule for next year, figuring out who I’m living with, stuff like that. 

Any advice to other freshmen?
It was stressful coming into college but don’t stress about it. It’s nothing crazy, it’s like doing high school just not at home. 

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore public relations major

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PROFFAMILY: An Inclusive & Welcoming Group Of First Years

Posted on by Luke Garcia
PROFFAMILY members stand amongst the trees during fall foliage.

Story header photo, from left: Tara Long, Brandon Sagbo, Jada Johnson, Poku, Aaron Brown, Dianna Schreidl, Jayshalie Jennings Today we speak with PROFFAMILY. Freshman founder Poku and first members of the group share how it began and how it has helped them transition into being college students. Creator and visionary, freshman Samuel Poku (who prefers […]

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7 First Years Share What They Like About Living On Campus

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
People walk in front of a residence hall.

What’s it like to live on campus? Freshmen from four Rowan residence halls tell us what they like most about their home away from home.  

1. The freedom. Matt Gandy, a resident of Holly Pointe, likes the freedom of being away from home and living on campus. 

Matt Gandy poses at Rowan.

2. The community in her dorm. Nya Ritch, another resident of Holly Pointe, says that whenever anyone has a problem, everyone wants to pitch in and help. She says it is a very loving environment.

Nya Ritch and Julianne Ferraro pose for a photo together.
Nya Ritch, left, and Julianne Ferraro, right, pose for a photo together.

3. The atmosphere. Julianne Ferraro, another resident of Holly Pointe, says that she loves the atmosphere of the school. She says that she feels that she can walk up to anyone in the student center and talk to them.

4. The food. Tamir Reed, also from Holly Pointe, loves that there is always food around, whether you use your meal plan or you go to Pizza Hut or 7-Eleven or somewhere else on Rowan Boulevard. 

Tamir Reed poses for a photo.

5. Exploring. Iliana Pineda, a resident of Evergreen Hall, says she loves getting the chance to meet new people and explore the campus. 

Illiana poses in front of Evergreen.

6. Having roommates. Rachel Rheinhardt, another resident of Mimosa Hall, says that likes having roommates so she has people to talk to during this time. 

Rachel poses in front of Willow Hall.

7. The college experience. Kevin Duffy, a resident of Chestnut Hall, says that you get the real college feel when you live on campus. 

Kevin poses by a tree outside of Chestnut Hall.

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Story and photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

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First Year Voices: Marketing Major Lili Solimando

Posted on by Luke Garcia
Lili poses in front of yellow and orange bushes. There is a brick building in the background and a tree with green leaves.

Today we speak with Lili Solimando, a Marketing major within the Rohrer College of Business who is enjoying life at Chestnut Hall so far. Lily plans to get more involved once things open back up on campus.

Lili poses in front of a brick building with a tree with green leaves on the right hand side.

How do you like living in Chestnut?

It’s pretty good. I don’t really have any problems with the people on my floor, and my roommate’s pretty nice also. 

Have you thought about joining any clubs or organizations on campus?

I was going to do the Tennis Club, but they aren’t meeting I guess because of COVID, so I guess I’ll do that next year. 

Are your classes remote or hybrid, and how has that adjustment been?

I’ve had a mix of some online and some hybrid. 

Lili poses in a purple mask in front of a brick building.

What are you looking forward to for the rest of this semester?

I’m hoping that more of my classes will be in person and there will be more events.

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

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First Year Voices: Roommates Chris Voyantzis and Bekim Krkuti

Posted on by Bianca Torres

Today, we speak to roommates Chris Voyantzis and Bekim Krkuti, who live on campus in Chestnut Hall. Chris is an Engineering Entrepreneurship major and Bekim is a Supply Chain and Logistics major. They’re both from Freehold, NJ (Monmouth County). They tell us more about why they chose their majors and what it’s like living on campus.

Bekim and Chris standing next to each other with their masks on.
Bekim (left) with Chris (right)

How did you two meet each other? 

Bekim: We’ve been friends for a while. We went to the same high school together!

Why did you choose Rowan?

Chris: It was close to home. There are things that are appealing to me. The campus looks nice the student center is cool and there’s a lot of things to do here.

Why did you choose your major?

Chris: I was just looking for something that gives me a problem solving aspect of learning. Also, a more traditional education at the same time.

Bekim: I chose my major because my dad was into it and he explained some things to me and decided to put my foot into it too.

What do you like about living in Chestnut?

Chris: Its gonna be warm inside in the winter!

Chris with a blue mask on.

How’s campus been for you so far?

Chris: It’s been good! It’s been fun meeting new people, walking around and doing what you want to do.

What do you like about campus?

Bekim: I like how there’s a lot of people out and about … having fun, playing basketball and stuff like that!

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

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(FRESH)man Voices: Radio/TV/Film Major Vicky Stein & Geology Major Sammy Mason

Posted on by Bianca Torres
Sammy and Vicky walk together on campus.

Today, we speak to freshmen Vicky Stein and Sammy Mason from Lewes, Delaware who live on campus in Chestnut Hall. Vicky is a Radio/TV/Film major and Sammy is a Geology major. They tell us more about their favorite spots on campus and give some advice for incoming students.

Sammy and Vicky walking together side by side.
Sammy (left) and Vicky (right) walking together on campus.

How did you two meet each other?

Sammy: It’s kind of a funny story actually! I was originally from New Jersey, which is pretty funny. We went to the same high school. She was friends with one of my friends. She originally thought I was annoying … but three years later, we became friends and now we’re here!

How is living in Chestnut? Have you met your RA?

Vicky: Chestnut is fine! I really like my RA, she’s really nice!

Are you interested in joining any clubs?

Sammy: I really wanted to do Crew Club but then [Covid-19] hit us, and I don’t know how that would work!

Vicky: I’m not sure about any of the clubs here yet!

Sammy wearing a pink mask and an orange "Danny Devito" shirt.

What’s your favorite spot on-campus so far?

Vicky: I really like the Rec Center.

Sammy: I mainly just hang out at the Student Center. I like it there!

Any advice for incoming freshmen?

Vicky: Rowan’s a really nice community to come to. If you’re looking for a place to talk and interact with people, Rowan’s a great place.

Sammy and Vicky posing together.

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photography by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations major

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First Year Voices: Psychology Majors Katyana Rodriguez and Anaisis Santos

Posted on by Bianca Torres

Today, we speak with two freshman Psychology majors, Katyana Rodriguez and Anaisis Santos. They’re both from Salisbury, Maryland and are currently residing on campus in Chestnut Hall. They tell us more about their time at Rowan and their favorite spots on campus.

Tatianna and Anaisis posing for a picture together while wearing masks.
Katyana (left) and Anaisis (right) walking together outside the freshman dorms on campus.

How did you two meet each other?

Anaisis: Well, we actually met in middle school. We’re from the same place in Maryland!

Have you met your RA?

Katyana: I like my RA, she is really nice!

Tatianna posing for a picture while she's leaning on a tree.

Are you interested in joining any clubs on campus?

Anaisis: I’m really looking forward to joining clubs. I would really like to check out some more Psychology clubs! I like Psychology because I like to study the human mind. I think it’s interesting.

Katyana: If I find any clubs that are interesting to me, I’ll definitely look into it and think about joining.

Anaisis posing for a picture while leaning against a tree.

What are your favorite spots on campus to hang out or eat?

Katyana: I usually eat outside the Student Center or right outside my dorm building.

Anaisis: My favorite spot is Rowan Boulevard, I like going over there!

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photos by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations major

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First Year Voices: Physical Education Major Jalen Baptiste

Posted on by Bianca Torres

Today, we speak to Jalen Baptiste, a freshman Physical Education major currently residing on-campus in Chestnut Hall from Hackettstown, NJ (Warren County). Jalen tells us about living on campus and more about his first year so far.

Jalen sitting and smiling on the edge of Mimosa hall.

How do you like on-campus housing?

I’m living in Chestnut. Chestnut’s not bad, though, because I live by myself in a double.

Are your classes completely online or hybrid?

Right now, all my classes are online, but I think some of my classes will switch to in-person hybrid hopefully soon!

Jaylen posing while wearing his mask.

Thinking about joining any clubs?

I’m thinking about joining a fraternity in the spring.

Any advice to incoming freshmen?

If you do come to Rowan, try to get into Holly Pointe! It’s really nice there.

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photos by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major

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Sophomore Reflects: Navya Kunigal Shares Tips and Her Top 5 Reasons She Chose Rowan

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
Rowan Boulevard at night.

Today we feature Navya Kunigal, a rising sophomore Community Health major from Hillsborough, New Jersey (Somerset County). Here, Navya writes about her on-campus, first-year experience and gives future Profs her best Rowan tips. 

As a freshman, I lived in Chestnut Hall, and I loved it! It is a wonderful dorm with so many wonderful people. I lived in a double by myself there.

Community Health major Navya poses in a Rowan shirt.

Get involved. I am [involved] on Rowan’s campus in so many different ways. I’m a member of the National Wellness Institute (NWI) (Rowan Student Chapter) and the Student Council for Exceptional Children (SCEC).

I am also part of the Get Fit program that the Health and Exercise department manages. Get Fit is a program where we help people with intellectual and learning disabilities and work with them to benefit their health. It is such a rewarding experience. I look forward to this every day of the week.

I am usually quite occupied on campus. When you get involved in stuff, you will never be bored, every day will be a new adventure.

Where to go when you first arrive on campus. When I first came to Rowan, I had no friends. The Chamberlain Student Center is a great place to meet people. Try to have a friend in every class so you have an additional resource other than the professor.

Rowan After Hours (RAH) is how I made most of my friends. Rowan After Hours has night activities every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Activities include cooking, arts and crafts, dancing and a food bar. Sometimes we play video games too. It is really fun, and it is such an easy and cool way to meet new people. Definitely, go to RAH!! 

Navya poses at a table at a restaurant.

Check out Rowan Boulevard! They have delicious restaurants and really cool places to visit. There are a lot of jobs on Rowan Boulevard as well. It is a really cool place to spend your time. 

The Rec Center has something for everyone. Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, you name it! They got it! I go to yoga there once in a while, and they have so many different levels and types of yoga. I go to beginner yoga and it is so calming. It releases so much stress for me. Definitely go to the Rec Center when you have a chance!

Advice for choosing a major: It’s okay to be undecided (Exploratory Studies) when you go to college! Rowan gives you a chance to explore and find what you’re good at. Always consult with your advisor before choosing a major. They can help you narrow down your choices. 

Moving in tips (do’s and don’ts): Moving into campus can be confusing, here is what to bring and what not to bring. 

  1. Enough clothes. 
  2. Hygiene products.
  3. Decorations to spruce up that room. 
  4. Shoes, of course.
  5. And some coats, for the chilly days.

These five things are mandatory to bring on campus — most importantly, shower shoes! 

What not to bring: 

  1. Candles, because they can set off fire alarms. 
  2. Not too many bags, they can cause clutter. 

Navya poses with her friend.

Five reasons why I love Rowan: 

  1. The people
  2. The buildings
  3. Diversity
  4. Kindness
  5. Friends 

I chose Rowan because not only was it a great fit for me, but it was a great experience being a freshman! I hope incoming freshmen have such a wonderful experience, too. Rowan had everything I was looking for and more. I cannot wait to go back and start a new chapter as a sophomore. 

Enjoy campus as much as you can! 

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Story and photos by:
Navya Kunigal, rising sophomore community health major

Organized by:
Rachel Rumsby, rising sophomore communication studies and public relations double major




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Jeff, President of Chestnut Hall Council, Shares What He Loves About Chestnut Hall

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
Jeff is sitting in the Chestnut lounge.

Meet Jeff Wheeler, a freshman double major in Radio, Television and Film within the Ric Edelman College of Communication and Creative Jeff sits on a chair in a lounge.Arts, and Computing and Informatics within the College of Science & Mathematics – School of Health Professions. He has minors in Computer Science, Math, and Electrical and Computer Engineering. Jeff is a first-generation college student from Matawan, New Jersey (Monmouth County). He feels that Chestnut Hall is his home away from home. Today, he will share with us two things he loves about about living in Chestnut Hall, as well as his experience being President of Chestnut Hall’s Hall Council through the Residence Hall Association (RHA). 

A drone view of Chestnut Hall which shows the capital C shape.
Chestnut Hall

His floor community within Chestnut.  Jeff thinks that Chestnut has a great community, especially within each floor. “Moving into Chestnut was scary for me, I didn’t know anyone. However, my RA brought our floor together as a family and they turned into my major friend group. “His floor has become his best friends, and he thinks that being in the Computer Science Living-Learning Community helped group him with people that think similarly to him. He has been coding websites since 7th grade and became a freelancer in 9th grade, so computer science is his passion. 

A row of baby geese follow their mother outside the gazebo.
The gazebo is right outside of Chestnut, near Chestnut pond.

The Chestnut Community as a whole. “Talking to the presidents of the other halls made me realize how lucky Chestnut is with our close community. I feel like everyone knows everyone and they’re always looking out for each other.” Every time he walks around, he sees someone he knows and he is greeted with a smile. It makes him happy to know there is such a great Chestnut community. He says that everyone is respectful and kind towards the Resident Assistants and their fellow residents. 

“Being President of Chestnut was a big game changer for me.” Jeff says that programming events has been a lot of fun. He had the opportunity to network with a ton of great people involved in housing and created some mentor relationships that made his freshman year memorable. His role as Hall Council President of Chestnut involves event programming and discussing issues around the hall that the council can fix, such as social issues or study issues.

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Story and photography by:
Rachel Rumsby, freshman communication studies and public relations double major

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Siblings At Rowan: Madison and Sophia Agostini

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
Sisters Sophia and Madison Agostini pose in front of a wood panel wall.

Today, we launch a Siblings at Rowan series with sisters Madison and Sophia Agostini.

Sophia and Madison pose with school supplies in front of a wooden background.
Madison (left) and Sophia (right) 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 Sophia is sitting on a couch in the student center.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 Madison is sitting on a couch in the student center.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

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First Year Voices: Joey Coyle

Posted on by Adeline McDonald
Joey Coyle of Rowan University looks upward toward the sky

“Being part of the track and field team is a plus – the more people you know on campus, the more you get involved in activities. Being a part of the track team was the best decision I have ever made. I was shaky about joining but glad I made the right decision in joining such a close-knit organization that has that winning mentality. Everyone looks out for each other – it’s a great feeling.”

“Rowan has been absolutely amazing so far, as my first year comes to a close. All of the great things I heard about this university were true – everyone is like one big family.”

Joey Coyle, freshman Chestnut Hall resident and Human Performance in Clinical Settings major from East Brunswick, NJ (Middlesex County.)

Joey Coyle laughs while holding onto the straps of the bookbag on his back

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Story and photography by:
Jelani James, senior journalism major

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First Year Voices: Vanessa Moultrie

Posted on by Adeline McDonald
Vanessa from Rowan University stands in front of the sign for Chestnut Hall dorm, with her left elbow resting on the brown sign
Vanessa from Rowan University stands in front of sparse trees at Chestnut Hall, wearing a black fleece, hands in pockets
Vanessa stands with her left elbow resting on the Chestnut Hall sign in front of her dorm

“There’s a lot more to do here at Rowan than I thought. There’s almost an activity somewhere on campus every day, so I’m never really bored. When I first started at Rowan I didn’t really know what to expect. Meeting my roommates, and living in Chestnut Hall, has really made me feel at home. All of the residents here are all so close to one another, the RAs give us fun activities daily which is also a plus!” Vanessa Moultrie, law and justice major, from Atco, NJ (Camden County).

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Enter for a chance to win a Rowan t-shirt! Email RowanBlog [at] rowan.edu with the date and time of your upcoming campus tour … we may just email you that we’re going to surprise you while you’re visiting!

Story and photography by:
Jelani James, senior journalism major

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