Meet #Rowan2024: Location & Major Key for Chinmayee Narayan

drone view of campus highlighting Holly Pointe Commons.

Today we feature incoming freshman Chinmayee Narayan, from Deptford, NJ (Gloucester County) who will be a biomedical engineering major and live on campus. 

Why Rowan?
I chose Rowan because of the amazing biomedical engineering program as well as the campus environment. Rowan is its own little niche in Glassboro, a home away from home! The staff has also shown how much they care and want to help from the start and I’m beyond excited to get to be a part of the College of Engineering.

Chinmayee stands in front of a high school graduation sign, wearing a Rowan shirt.

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan?
I look forward to meeting new friends and joining clubs! I’m excited to be living on campus and I can’t wait to have late night study sessions with friends.

How or why did you choose your major?
I chose biomedical engineering as my major because it’s such an innovative and prominent field in medicine. As a society we can’t progress medically without the research and technology created by biomedical engineers. It’s such a diverse field and there’s so many options in terms of areas of focus!Chimayee proudly wears a Rowan shirt.

Why did you choose a university that is close to home?
I chose a university close to home so that I can still be close to my family and still be involved in my community back home. Rowan is perfect because it’s like its own little area away from home, but close enough that I can feel at home too!

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan? (Or a new one you’d like to try?)
Something I’d like to continue from high school is playing my instrument! I’d also like to hopefully pick up swimming again, something I used to do competitively a few years ago.

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Meet #Rowan2024: Biomedical Engineering Major Ariana Torres

Ariana posing against a white wall.

Today we feature incoming freshman Ariana Torres, a first generation college student and Biomedical Engineering major from Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County) who plans to commute to campus. 

Ariana poses in her Rowan gear against a white wall.

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan? Something I look forward to doing at Rowan is joining plenty of clubs and really being involved in school activities. 

How or why did you choose your major? I chose biomedical engineering to be my major because I took a campus tour of the engineering department when I was in eighth grade. Once the Admissions Ambassadors showed us the biomedical engineering aspects, I fell in love with the program and knew that’s  what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

Ariana poses in her Rowan gear against a white wall.Why did you choose a university that is close to home? I chose a university that was close to home because I didn’t want to move too far away from home but I wanted some kind of commute to make me more independent.

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan? I hope that I can continue to play softball at Rowan. I also hope to join some more clubs and activities.

Why Rowan? I chose Rowan because from the first time I toured, I knew that it was going to be my home for the next four years after high school. The school was perfect in my eyes and I never had a doubt about choosing Rowan.

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

Meet #Rowan2024: Student Athlete Shane Vostenak

A stock image of a close up of running feet.

Today we feature Shane Vostenak, an incoming freshman from Delran, NJ (Burlington County) who will live on campus and major in mechanical engineering.

Shane stands holding a homemade sign that says Rowan2024.

What are a few things you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?
Next year I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates on the cross country and track team and getting to know all my professors and classmates. I’m really excited to be on my own and have a sense of self-sufficiency. I think it will be a challenge but one that really brings excitement. I’m also looking forward to learning new and interesting things about my major and about how the world around me functions. 

Why did you choose your major?
I chose mechanical engineering because I have always been the kid that wanted to tinker and find out how and why things worked in a mechanical/physical sense. I would always take apart random things in my house to see what made them tick. Most times I couldn’t get them to go back together the right way but it was the interest that made me choose this major.

Why did you choose a university close to home?
The fact that Rowan is close to my house is comforting but it was too major of a factor for me. I plan on staying on campus most of the time and really enjoying the new freedom and trying to really soak up the college experience. However it’s nice to know that if need be I could be home in less than an hour.Shane wears his cross country uniform.

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?
As I said above I will be running for Rowan’s cross country and track team and I’m really hopeful to grow a lot as a person and as a runner in my four years. Another club however I might like to join is an investment club if one is available. At my high school we didn’t have one of these but in the past year I have become more and more interested in the stock market and how money circulates the country and the world.

Why Rowan?
Rowan for me was the right school because of its value. I see it as the right bang for my buck sort of. It’s is one of the top engineering schools that I know of and it is half the price of most other colleges I looked at. I also fell in the love with the new updates that the school has made to the engineering building and all the advancements that have been made to increase the technology and modernity of the supplies.

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Meet #Rowan2024: Mullica Hill’s Grace Harris

Grace Harris: Freshman Voices

Today we feature incoming freshman Grace Harris, an electrical and computer engineering major from Mullica Hill, New Jersey (Gloucester County) who will commute to campus.

What are a few things you’re looking forward to at Rowan next year?
I’m looking forward to making friends and making all the memories that come with being a college student! I’m also excited to work with faculty who are respected leaders in their fields, and network with other people my age who share the same interests and passions. 

How or why did you choose your major?
There are so many different reasons I could give! However, my primary motivation for choosing my major is because electrical and computer engineers have left their mark all over modern society with innovations that have transformed our world, from computers to cell phones to electric power and everything in between. Engineers will undoubtedly continue to leave their fingerprints all over technology and play a vital role in shaping the future. Being able to take part in this digital renaissance is an exciting prospect for me, and I can’t imagine anything else I’d rather be working towards, at least in my academic major and career.

Grace smiles toward the camera, wearing a flannel.

Why did you choose a university close to home?
The convenience of remaining close to family and friends I have in the area, while at the same time immersing myself in the college experience, appealed to me very much!

Why Rowan?
There are several reasons I chose Rowan. Rowan was more affordable than the vast majority of other college options I’d considered before, and it didn’t hurt that I lived close enough to Rowan to easily commute. However, the major deciding factor for me was the quality of the Electrical and Computer Engineering program, which is ranked #15 in the nation in the US News Best Colleges report. The prospect of attending a nationally recognized engineering program that is affordable and close to home was an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up! 

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Pandemic Profs: New Routines and Calming Views

Laurence Harbor views as taken by Lauren Repmann

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 Lauren Repmann, a sophomore relocated to her house in Middlesex County, NJ, for the rest of the semester. 

Hello! My name is Lauren, and I am a sophomore biomedical engineering student at Rowan.

Buddy begs for salad
Buddy begs for salad

Since coming home, I’ve spent lots of time with my 2-year-old cat, Buddy. He is very cute, but quite the handful.

For the past week, I’ve been eating chopped salads for lunch. While I eat, Buddy sits next to me and begs for little pieces of chicken and cheese. He even puts his nose right up to my bowl!

When I am not at Rowan, I live in Laurence Harbor, a little New Jersey shore town directly across from New York City.

I enjoy waking up early in the mornings to take walks on the boardwalk and watch the sun rise. I use these morning walks as opportunities to improve my photography skills!

Laurence Harbor views
Laurence Harbor waterfront

I’ve been taking pictures of the Laurence Harbor waterfront since I was about 10 years old, and each morning I get to add new pictures to my collection. These pictures make up the slide show home screen on my laptop. When I’m away at Rowan, I look back at these pictures for a little taste of home. 

In addition to photography, I also enjoy playing piano! Now that I have more time on my hands, I plan to learn many new songs. I learned to play two songs over spring break, Dancing in the Moonlight and Bless the Broken Road. 

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Story and photos by:
Lauren Repmann, biomedical engineering sophomore

How Construction Management Major Jeremiah Cason Earned a Degree From Across the Country

Photo of a banner located in the College of Engineering.

Jeremiah takes a selfie at a construction site.Name: Jeremiah Ryan Cason

Class of: 2019

Degree: B.A. in Construction Management

Hometown and county: I live in Beaumont, CA with my wife and 3 kids.

First-generation college student? Yes, I am the first student in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree.

What inspired you to choose Construction Management?

Honestly, it was the need to provide for my family that caused me to enter the field. Money as a union tradesman was good, and I knew I was good at building things and putting things together with my hands. It felt natural and I have excelled at the field of construction. I now work for the 4th largest general construction management firm in the U.S. I love seeing the final result of a project and knowing I was a part of the greater picture. I feel like a conductor of a concert hall music symphony, and I love knowing I made this group of people come together to make a beautiful sounds (or building).

Jeremiah poses with a coworker.What would you share with a future student interested in Construction Management?

This program is a great way to get your feet and mind into this line of work. The teachers are great, and they have amazing experience in the line of work that they can offer great advice and even suggestions on paths toward future employment. However, don’t go into construction management unless you understand it is challenging, stressful, and you work a lot of hours. There are a lot of times where you are going to struggle to and even fail, but that is how you learn and become better and grow.

Did you ever have a moment of uncertainty within your major? How did you get through the challenge?

I never had any uncertainty, I was and am fully invested in this line of work. I have poured myself into this career. I did not go to college like most at a young age, I went back to school in my 30s to finish my degree after I had already started my path in construction. I knew I wanted to advance and I knew I was going to need a degree to do it, so I had to go back to school.

Did you feel supported throughout your college career by the Rowan community? 

I took a study abroad class and got to meet some Rowan students face-to-face for the first time. I live in Beaumont, CA and I never got to meet anyone or even any teachers at Rowan until this study abroad class. Not only did the students and teachers from the study abroad class embrace me and help me, they have all been there for me after the class and given me help and advice after in other classes as well. If fact, Dr. Hague from the WWII Study abroad class and I have stayed in touch since my graduation and we still text back and forth. My fellow students (Dan Cirino) even came to graduation and gave me a personal tour of the campus during my trip out to Rowan [for] graduation.

How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?

I think my line of work (and what I do) is the cornerstone of building America’s infrastructure. I am proud of what I do, and I look forward to being a part of my line of work in the years to come because I think methods for construction are going to get very high tech and demanding for new, “greener,” methods to improve building life cycles and reducing waste in the industry.

What is your biggest career accomplishment so far?Jeremiah takes a selfie with his family in Hong Kong, Korea.

Aside from providing for my family (because that was my whole motivation and drive when I started my line of work), I think it was, and is, earning my degree. I think that it’s going to open doors to finally get to the next step and place in my career. Not only that, but I also felt so blessed and proud that my family (especially my children) got to see me earn my degree. My kids now know that you can never be too old to go back to school and better yourself and your chances at advancing your career.

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Story by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Photos courtesy of Jeremiah Cason

Alumni Success: Chemical Engineering Major Brad Johnson

a drone photo of engineering hall at sunset.

Brad Johnson is a Chemical Engineering alumnus from the Class of 2016, from Langhorne, PA (Bucks County). Brad was part of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society, University Orchestra, String Ensemble and Republican Club. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate for the Department of Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.

What inspired you to choose Chemical Engineering?Brad Johnson lecturing in a chemical engineering room.

“In high school I was interested in chemistry and, in particular, physics. I was drawn to engineering in general because of its hands-on nature and emphasis on applying scientific principles to improve the world.”

What would you share with a future student interested in Chemical Engineering?

“Chemical engineering unit operations and processes are pretty cool. There are so many inventive ways to transport, transform, separate and combine different materials.”

How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?

“Chemical engineers have a hand in developing and producing almost anything you can imagine: energy, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food and advanced materials to name a few. We excel at process modeling, utilizing math, chemistry and physics to create products in a safe and economical fashion.

“My sub-field is process systems engineering. We develop and apply rigorous mathematical optimization and modeling methods to improve the design, operation and control of chemical engineering processes.”

Can you share a current research project you’re working on?

“I’m currently developing computationally efficient dynamic models for powder flow in pharmaceutical drug product continuous manufacturing. For example, one model leverages our knowledge of powder properties to predict how fast a powder can be fed through different screw feeders and under different process conditions. Predictive models can speed up a new drug’s time to market by reducing the need for experimental data to begin process development.”

What is your biggest academic/career accomplishment so far?

“Successfully proposing my thesis, ‘Theory and Application in Best Subset Selection and Constrained Regression,’ last September.”

Tell us about your transition into graduate school and how you pushed through any challenges.

Exterior shot of Engineering pond“The biggest difference between undergraduate coursework and graduate research is the switch from solving curated, self-contained problems with well-tested methods to having to pose your own problems and solutions with no guarantee they will work. This difference, in part, made it challenging to transition my strong undergraduate work ethic into my graduate work. To combat this, I’ve scheduled a period of time each day to focus on meeting small research goals. This helps me keep momentum even when unexpected challenges arise.”

Do you have any plans after graduation? 

“I don’t have firm plans for after graduation. In the future, I hope to continue developing technical software and algorithms. I’d also like to help teach the next generation of engineers.”

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Story by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Alumni Success: Staff Engineer for Hershey Company’s Reese Plant Christopher Dromgoole

Christopher Dromgoole, a chemical engineering alumnus, graduated with his B.S. in 2000 and M.S. in 2003. He is from Gloucester Township, NJ (Camden County). During his time at Rowan, he was an Undergraduate Lab Assistant and Graduate Assistant. He is a Staff Engineer at The Hershey Company’s Reese Plant. 

Chris Dromgoole smiles for a selfie on the beach.What would you share with a future student interested in Chemical Engineering?

“There are many career opportunities and pathways to choose from for those with a Chemical Engineering degree such as: food and beverage, pharmaceutical, energy, medical, legal and sales.  Don’t just focus on the word ‘chemical’!”

Did you ever have a moment of uncertainty within your major? How did you get through the challenge?

“Sure, Chemical Engineering was difficult and required a lot of hard work, which made me question whether I really wanted to be an engineer. The key for me to overcome this challenge was to maintain focus and persevere through the rough times knowing that graduation was right on the horizon.”

Did you feel supported throughout your college career by the Rowan community? If so, explain.

“Yes, I most definitely felt supported by the Rowan community, especially my professors and classmates. I was part of the first graduating engineering class, so at that time, the program was small and each semester only had one section per course due to the minimal amount of faculty. This forced our class to be together for every required course, and we became like a second family. If anyone had trouble understanding classwork, homework or projects, there was always someone willing to sit down and explain things differently in hopes of making you understand.”

Chris Dromgoole poses with his children.Tell us about your transition into the work field and how you pushed through any challenges.

“I had a relatively smooth transition into the work field having been well prepared by learning how to work in teams during my various Rowan Engineering Clinic projects. As an engineer, one of the most important skills that you will need to learn is how to effectively troubleshoot an issue or a problem. This skill will greatly improve over time as you become immersed within your field of concentration or industry, but as a new engineer, you can’t be afraid or too proud to ask others for help or advice…”

What is your biggest career accomplishment so far?

“My biggest career accomplishment so far was the commercialization of the Hershey’s Air Delight Bars and Kisses. I worked together with the marketing and product development teams to create and scale up the production of aerated milk chocolate products in multiple plants that were located within different countries.”

How did you begin working for Hershey?

“I believe that working on one of my Senior Engineering Clinic projects, which was the reassembly of a donated, Specialty Chemical Pilot Plant, helped me to stand out from other Chemical Engineering candidates that applied for the entry level position of Associate Process Design Engineer. The clinic project had required me to learn how to read Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), which was needed for the role at Hershey.”

Can you explain your duties for the External Advisory Board?

“I help to advise the Rowan University Chemical Engineering department on ways that they could improve their curriculum based on the skills that are needed and preferred for the Food & Beverage Industry.”

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Story by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Photos courtesy of Christopher Dromgoole.

Pandemic Profs: Geocaching

Eddie crouches in the woods, holding a walking stick.

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 Eddie O’Melia, a sophomore relocated to his house in Warren County, NJ, for the rest of the semester. Eddie is a mechanical engineering major. 

Hello Profs! Normally during the school week, I would be either be working on a project in the engineering lab or hanging out with my fraternity brothers. However, since we are all being restricted to certain quarantine measures I have decided to go geocaching with my family. Eddie and his brother crouch in the woods to examine a geocache find.

Me and my little brother Greg decided to go to one of the local parks in Warren County and geocache. Geocaching is where someone hides a box full of different treasures along a path and when/if you find it you log when you did and can take one of the treasures inside, replacing it with your own. Going out in nature is a great way to prevent the spread of the virus and has endless possibilities. It gets you out of your house while not putting yourself or anyone else at risk. It was also a great way to spend time with my family while I am home. 

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Recovering Philanthropy at Rowan University

Sam smiling for a portrait outside Engineering Hall.

Sam Bollendorf poses in Engineering Hall.Meet Samantha Bollendorf, sophomore biomedical engineering major from Sewell, NJ (Gloucester County.) She shares her passion for volunteering with the Food Recovery Network and encourages students to deepen their volunteer experiences on-campus. 

“What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other?” – George Eliot

There are few feelings, as a college student and human being, that rival the sensation of giving back to a cause, any cause, that matters to you. Giving all that we can do individually to better the lives of those that we empathize with is just about as rewarding as it gets, and it’s safe to say that we all wish we could participate in philanthropic efforts a little more than we already do.

It’s easy to be philanthropic when you’re a well-established gajillionaire, but as an undergraduate 20-something scraping together loose change to do your laundry and buy discount cereal from Aldi, donating to your favorite non-profits is an act easier said than done. Money is tight, and some days, starting a personal GoFundMe to keep your Spotify subscription afloat doesn’t seem all too crazy. All of this begs the question: “How can I give back on-campus in a way that works for me?”

As a student who actively volunteers and is constantly searching for ways to be more immersed on campus, I can assure you that Rowan offers a plethora of opportunities for students to give back. The breadth of volunteer efforts on campus reach a scope far beyond the bounds of our school — philanthropic efforts tend to reach the Glassboro community, as well as greater national causes.

That being said, it can be difficult to weed through the zillions of opportunities provided by our university to find the activities that really resonate with us as individuals. After a full year (and one semester) here at Rowan, I’ve found my own personal unsung hero of philanthropy in the form of Rowan’s Food Recovery Network.

Rowan’s Food Recovery Network is a small, student-led organization on campus that works on a weekly basis to source unused, otherwise wasted food from Rowan University’s dining halls. Students and faculty transport recovered food to local shelters in the Glassboro community. Food Recovery Network redirects food waste to a worthy cause, and gives students a chance to positively impact their surrounding community in a way that’s meaningful, and of course, doable.

Food Recovery Network logo Being a part of something like Food Recovery Network at Rowan, a university that encourages sustainability and practicing sustainable habits, is extremely rewarding. Being able to give back to those that have lent a hand in building beautiful Glassboro — the town that us Profs get to call home — is an opportunity I’m beyond grateful to have.

The best part? I don’t have to dip into my Spotify subscription fund to give back — all that I need to donate is my time, energy and my drive, shared by everyone at Food Recovery, to make the lives of those around us just a little less difficult. That’s the case with most volunteer efforts at Rowan University — so enhance your college experience, and lend a hand!

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Story by:
Samantha Bollendorf, sophomore biomedical engineering major

Photos by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Faculty PROFile: Experiential Engineering Education Department’s Dr. Kaitlin Mallouk

Professor sits at her desk, hands clasped

Meet Dr. Kaitlin Mallouk, Assistant Professor within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering

What is your area of expertise? Currently, my main area of expertise is engineering education pedagogy – basically, what are the best ways of teaching engineering students. I am also working on developing expertise in faculty development and leadership practices and diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering education. These new areas have synergies with each other and with my existing expertise, so I’m very excited to learn Dr. Mallouk sits at her desk in Rowan Hall.more.

Share an “aha!” moment that you’ve had within your discipline that made you feel passionate about your field. A few years ago, I championed the inclusion of weekly reflections in our first-semester first-year engineering clinic course that all engineering students take. As I began reading my students’ first reflections, I was struck by how many of them so clearly needed an outlet beyond what we typically provide in engineering (i.e., problem sets and lab reports). Their reflections were personal and honest and gave me a window into their lives that I don’t normally get. It reminded me that our students are whole people, and I had newfound motivation to provide them the best classroom experience I could.

Describe for us an experience you’ve had with a student that made you feel excited about educating the next generation in your field. I developed a project for our first-year engineering clinic class during which students learn about Net Zero Energy buildings and sustainability – we talk about solar power, heat transfer, and low energy appliances in the context of the engineering basics students are learning (like engineering economics). I think the project is super interesting and relevant, but I was so gratified when a student emailed me after the semester was over to let me know that his internship was going to require him to analyze solar panels and energy reduction measures and that he felt totally confident going into the internship having worked on the Net Zero project in my class! Our current students are the people who will be solving the most challenging engineering problems our society has ever faced and I’m proud that I can contribute to their development as engineers and people.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your academic discipline or your research focus? Just because a particular way of teaching/learning things worked for you doesn’t mean it works for everyone (or even the majority of people). Our education system has been designed to select for particular strengths, which means we’re missing out on a huge amount of talent that doesn’t happen to thrive in our current system.

What is a current project you and your students are working on? I have several students working on analyzing the reflections our first-year students are writing in their engineering clinic course. We are taking a few different approaches to this work—one is to try to understand how students think about the entrepreneurial mindset (curiosity, connections, creating value) and another is investigating how students conceptualize themselves as learners based on their responses to the prompt “Tell me about yourself as a learner”. We have found some interesting results—the publications are forthcoming!

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Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Where is He Now? Computer and Electrical Engineering Grad Becomes COO

Twilight exterior shot of Rowan Hall

College of Engineering alumnus Ken Whelan at his job at ESS

Meet Kenneth Whelan, a 2002- and third-class graduate from the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. Kenneth is the chief operating officer (COO) of Engineered Security Systems, one of the top 100 security integrators in the country. Today, he will share with us his journey, from picking Rowan University to becoming COO.

What inspired you to go into engineering?

My cousin, who is also my godmother, graduated from NJIT (New Jersey Institute of Technology) in engineering when I was 8 years old. I thought it was really cool to know what an engineer actually does. As I got older, I got into computers, so I kind of put them together and got into electrical and computer engineering.

How did you know Rowan University was for you?

Nighttime exterior shot of Rowan HallWhen I was looking at colleges, I really thought I was going to go to NJIT like my godmother. I went to two NJIT open houses and two open houses for Rowan. NJIT was a nice sunny day, nice weather, and it still didn’t feel like home. When I went down to Rowan, it was cold, windy and rainy, and yet it still felt like home. I went with Rowan because even on a day like that, it seemed like a nice place to be.

How did Rowan University impact your life?

I was very shy and not outgoing. Between the classes and student community, I really got out of my shell. Every class in the engineering department had a presentation we had to do and work in groups. It really taught me to work with other people and be able to stand up and present what I’ve done and really advocate for myself. I was also active in the electrical engineering society.

I learned to round myself, and it really helped me out in my career. I went from just being an engineer when I first got out to now being COO for a nationwide security company. I really attribute everything Rowan taught me to get here. 

Can you tell us more about Engineered Security Systems and your role in the company?

It’s a family-run company, and it was founded in 1971. I’m the first person to be leading it who is not part of the family. We do electronic security like access control, fire alarm systems, burglar alarm systems for businesses, colleges and hospitals. We do very high-end systems that are customized for each client.

Interior shot of a College of Engineering banner inside Rowan HallIn the morning I first come in and talk with the engineering department, I ask what they’re working on and what products are coming down the pike. As the day goes on, I spend time with the operations department. Same thing, I ask what they’re working on, what service call popped up. And I also check in with our sensor monitoring center to see how everything is going and how our clients are doing. As the afternoon goes along, I have meetings and conference calls with our clients and vendors. And I kind of spend my time rotating around all functions of the business.

Any advice for students interested or who are currently pursuing a degree in engineering?

Try to get involved in as much as you can. Don’t try to do just one type of project with engineering projects. Get involved in student organizations on campus and definitely get out of your comfort zone. Join something you don’t think you’ll enjoy — whether it is a fraternity, sorority or some other activity group — just to broaden your horizons and meet people who are not in your major.

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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major

Photo courtesy of:
Kenneth Whelan

#PROFspective: International Engineering Student Thai Nghiem

Thai Nghiem stands on the steps inside the Engineering Hall lobby

Name: Thai Nghiem

Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering

Minor: Computer Science

Year: Senior

Are you a first-generation college student? No

Hometown and county: Hanoi, Vietnam

Commuter: Yes. I’m commuting from Franklinville, NJ (Gloucester County)

Academic clubs you are a part of: Bantivoglio Honors Concentration, Tau Beta Pi – Engineering Honor Society

Social clubs you are a part of: Rowan Cru – Secretary

Thai sits in a round orange chair in the bridge connecting the two engineering buildings at Rowan University.Do you work on campus? I worked in the library as a Technology Desk Specialist for a year.

Share an “aha!” moment you’ve had within your major that made you feel passionate about your intended field. I was always good at math and physics in high school, and since Rowan offered an outstanding engineering program, I did not hesitate to choose engineering as my major. 

Describe an on-campus experience (academic or non-academic) in which you felt that your future goals are supported. I found the Career Fair on-campus very helpful, as I landed many interviews and two internships. The two engineering internships were with Ellenby Technologies and American Water. Both of them offered me competitive pay and treated me as a regular employee; they trusted and assigned me with great responsibilities. I had a great time interning with them and gained a great deal of practical knowledge and industrial experience. I would recommend everybody of all majors attend the Rowan Career Fair. 

Thai is pictured behind a handrail as he walks up the steps holding a red and black toolbox .
On a typical day, Thai brings his toolbox with him to work on projects in Engineering Hall.

Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you? My freshman year (2015), Rowan Cru held a Halloween party at the International House, where I used to live. As an international student, I did not have a lot of friends back then, especially those who are American. The event was a great deal to me, as I got to meet and talk to new people who were very friendly and helpful. Since it’s hard for an international student to get a car and a driving licence, many of them offered me rides to ShopRite whenever I needed. Furthermore, they invited me to be a part of their club — Rowan Cru, where I continued to make new wonderful relationships and great memories.

Why did you choose Rowan? Actually, Rowan found and chose me. I uploaded my resume on a merit-aid website, and Rowan officials contacted me. Due to the generous international scholarship, I was able to attend Henry Rowan College of Engineering. 

Thai works on a project in the Engineering Hall lobby between classes.

On your busiest day, what academic, non-academic and social responsibilities are you juggling? On my busiest day, I am juggling between exams, my part-time job at the library, and leading a Bible study session at Rowan Cru. There are tough times, but those are what make us a better person. My friends in Cru, as well as my classmates, help each other through stressful times. I really appreciate these people and always enjoy spending time with them. 

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Story by:
Thai Nghiem, senior electrical and computer engineering major

Photography by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major

Future Chemical Engineer Shares Her Research Experience with ExxonMobil

“In high school, I was extremely interested in chemistry and Rowan Chemical Engineering major Casey Wagner sits outside Engineering Hall.pharmaceuticals. I thought about first going to pharmacy school, but I was more interested in how drugs were actually made rather than the dispensing of drugs to patients,” shares Casey Wagner, senior Chemical Engineering major from Sicklerville, NJ (Camden County).

Four years later, she’s conducting research for ExxonMobil.

While working as a research assistant at Rowan over the summer, Casey bumped into her past professor, Dr. C. Stewart Slater. He encouraged her to join his fall clinic team to help ExxonMobil with a project involving the flushing operations of its lubrication plant. Casey explains, “It seemed like an awesome opportunity as a student who wants to go into industry.”

She continues, “The project is still in the beginning stages of development. So far our team is researching how we can relate other industries to the oil industry. Being able to visit the lubrication plant in Paulsboro, NJ and see Rowan Chemical Engineering major Casey Wagner works in an engineering lab.how the operations are completed was an awesome experience. Being able to contact engineers and operators who are working at this plant to ask them questions and learn from their experiences has been a great experience for my future.

“Overall, I’ve been very happy with the professional experience I’m gaining from being a part of this project. I’m extremely happy with the way the communication is between the students and ExxonMobil workers. I feel like we are slowly narrowing our focus as a unit and getting closer to finding plausible options for the plant.

“I have gained some very valuable research experience from being a part of this project. Obviously, as engineers, we have to create unique ideas for our own experiments all the time. Reading about previously done work in contrasting industries and finding correlations between those different industries within the oil industry is very important for this project. This procedure is important no matter where I work in the future.

“Also, working with different groups of people whether it be within the same company or at a different company has given me valuable professional experience. Learning different terms and expressions used by other engineers and chemists has been helpful.”Rowan Chemical Engineering major Casey Wagner works in an engineering lab.

Casey feels Rowan best prepared her for this opportunity through the engineering clinics. Every semester, all engineering majors are enrolled in clinics, which provide students with an opportunity to join projects they are interested in. She continues, “It definitely prepared me for work after college and for deciding whether I want to continue my education or move on to working in the industry.”

She knows if she ever has any questions, Dr. Slater or Dr. [Mariano] Savelski will always answer them. She shares, “Dr. Slater this past year has been a guiding hand for me and is someone who I know I can always go to for help with future careers.”

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Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

Beyond the Classroom: Ryan Clare and Ian Nielsen Canvassing for Bernie Sanders

Meet the partners and leaders of Rowan for Bernie at Rowan University — President Ryan Clare, a junior in Music Composition from Jackson (Ocean County), and Vice President Ian Nielsen, a senior with a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Allentown (Monmouth County).

Rowan for Bernie is a group dedicated to canvassing and talking to individuals around campus about their political ideals on Bernie Sanders and to help upcoming voters build their opinions leading to the upcoming election. Their mission is to network with as many people as they can to persuade and educate them in the hope to get votes for Bernie Sanders.

Ryan and Ian first met at a Bernie Sanders networking program, which helped students start groups and organizations in their colleges and provided the support and tools to help students understand canvassing. Through this meeting, Rowan for Bernie was created.

They were able to support a decent following on-campus with around 20 dedicated members going to club meetings as of now, and they look to further expand the organization.     

Ryan Clare, junior in music compositionRyan explains his passion for his position: “Bernie Sanders has inspired me to really get involved with the political process, and I feel like he is our one chance to get somebody into the White House that has been this consistent for his entire political career…

Ryan further adds, “…he has motivated me, and I feel like I have to fight as hard as I can to get this man elected.” 

Ian also shares why he wanted to get involved: “I wasn’t really super political, [but] I always was somewhat into politics all throughout my high school years.

Ian also explains his viewpoint: “I just really believe that it’s our responsibility as citizens to participate in the democratic process and make sure that people are taken care of. Bernie has Ian Nielsen, senior with a major in Electrical Computer Engineeringbeen consistent over the decades, whether it comes to talking about healthcare he’s been pushing for Medicare for all these years. He was on the right side of civil rights, which is something we can not say for other candidates. He has been pushing for $15 an hour wage, that’s something he has been pushing for years … He is not only pushing for these things in Congress but he is actually doing them right now.” 

One of their upcoming goals is to become a chartered organization at Rowan. As of now they have a petition with 200 signatures and are looking to propose their organization to the Student Government Association for further advancements.

With all the time put into the organization, they truly share a passion and work hard toward creating a bigger following and sharing some amazing experiences in the field. Ryan adds: “I’ve just really enjoyed canvassing and talking to new people, we openly will discuss ideas to people from very different political backgrounds … just really enjoyed sharing my views and backing them up with facts as opposed to just how I feel about things.” Ian further adds his most favorite experiences so far, “Just hearing people’s personal stories is just really moving and it really inspires me to keep pushing and try and make things better for everyone.”      

For now, they look to further expand their club and to help people understand the importance to participate in the election and to have fun doing it! 

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Story and photography by:
Adam Goskowsky, junior advertising major

A Leader in Rowan’s First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program

Amanda Yannarella, a Biomedical Engineering major, was a student leader this summer in the First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program.

Amanda Yannarella, a Biomedical Engineering major, was a student leader this summer in the First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program.

Meet Amanda Yannarella, a sophomore majoring in Biomedical Engineering from Burlington Township, NJ (Burlington County). This summer, Amanda became a student leader for this year’s Rowan’s First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program. Today she will share with us her experience in the program and what she’s learned from being a student leader.

Why did you decide to join Rowan’s First-Year Connection program?

“Last year as a freshman, I wanted to get acclimated to campus and wanted to start of my year well by volunteering.Amanda Yannarella, a Biomedical Engineering major, was a student leader this summer in the First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program. I volunteered a lot in high school, too. I was in Key Club, so I did a lot of volunteering then and I wanted to continue here. I was a leader this year because I loved it so much my freshman year. I wanted to do it again and have a positive impact on the incoming first-year students, because that was really important to me.”

What kind of activities did you do?

“We went to the Food Bank of South Jersey and we helped sort all the donations they had into proteins, soups and grains. Two people went into the bakery to bake muffins, so that was really cool. We also helped with the Saint Bernard’s [disaster relief] Project, which is similar to Habitat for Humanity, in which I am also involved in. We went to someone’s house that was damaged by Hurricane Sandy and we helped fix up their house. We did flooring, drywall, spackling and hurricane clips, which is supposed to help the roof stay on with strong winds.

“Then we helped with the Little Owls Preschool at Rowan. We were cleaning their classrooms to prepare for the school year. It took us about two hours, which would have taken all the Little Owl teachers all day. Then we did SAIL Bowling Night; they do activities for adults on the autism spectrum. We had a great time bowling with them and making conversations — just hanging out and having fun, but it was important because I feel like we were making everyone’s day better. I’m not good at bowling, but still had a good time.”

Amanda Yannarella, a Biomedical Engineering major, was a student leader this summer in the First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program. What was your favorite activity?

“The Saint Bernard’s Project was my favorite because you learn skills that I feel you can transfer to your own house. Now I know how to put in hardwood flooring, and that’s pretty cool.”

What knowledge or skills have you developed through this program?

“When we went to the food bank [someone] told us the amount of food we sorted, which was a lot, was between 2,000 to 5,000 pounds. The guy was like, ‘Congratulations guys, you really helped us out, but there are still families going to bed hungry tonight. And even though we worked so hard there is still a lot of work to be done.’ Then you’re like, ‘Wait what? I just did this whole work and you’re telling me that there’s more?’ It’s kind of eye opening. That is why I like doing stuff like that because you get impacted and it’s good to get reminded with that kind of stuff. And as a leader I learned leadership skills, like learning to communicate. I use to hate talking. I was so quiet when I was younger, but this actually helped me get more comfortable talking to bigger groups of people.”

What did being a leader for Rowan’s First-Year Connection program mean to you?

“I liked being able to have an impact on incoming students and setting them off into a positive way. We were focusing on the volunteering stuff all week and the importance of that, but we were also getting them ready for campus. And it just meant a lot to get that kind of leadership experience under my belt.”

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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major

First Year Voices: Joining Her Cousins at Rowan

Krishna stands at Rowan University posed with the owl mascot's wings behind her

After hearing good things about Rowan’s engineering program and with two cousins already here, Rowan was a natural choice for incoming freshman Krishna Barot. 

Krishna sits on a bright pink chair with PCI friends

Meeting people and forming the beginnings of lifelong friendships has been the highlight of Krishna’s summer at Rowan University. The first generation college student, from Galloway, NJ (Atlantic County), spent six weeks on campus as a part of the Pre-College Institute (PCI), an academic/residential program to better prepare freshmen for college. 

When Krishna returns to campus in September, she’ll have already earned three college credits through PCI, will have a core group of friends she’ll be reunited with and will already have a familiarity with campus. A civil engineering major, Krishna will live in Evergreen Hall

In September, Krishna says, “I’m most looking forward to learning about the different clubs and activities to join.”

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First Year Voices: A 4-Year Dream Begins to Launch

Alexis Benitez smiles, sits on a green bench with his bookbag by his side

Incoming freshman Alexis Pacheco Benitez of Bridgeton, NJ (Cumberland County) has waited patiently four years to finally begin his education toward his dream career. “When I was a freshman in high school we had this seminar to find out what you want to do, and ever since then I’ve known that I want to go […]

First Year Voices: Growing Up With Rowan

Silas sits in the driver's seat of a Rowan golf cart with one hand on the wheel, looking off camera

As Silas Alston grew up, he watched Rowan University grow up, too. 

“I remember campus before half these buildings were here,” the incoming freshman says. “Whitney, Holly Pointe, Rowan Boulevard, Barnes & Noble — I remember all of them coming up.”

With many family connections to Rowan, Silas spent much of his childhood visiting campus. Now, as an incoming freshman, he’s beginning to see Rowan through fresh eyes. 

Silas sits with three friends on brightly colored Adirondack chairs on a lawn at Rowan University

This summer Silas earned three college credits through Rowan’s Pre-College Institute (PCI), a six-week academic/residential program to better prepare freshmen for college. 

The New Castle, DE, resident will live on campus in Mullica Hall his freshman year. An exploratory studies major, Silas is looking forward to finding a major and a career he’s interested in. “I’m considering some type of engineering or athletic training,” he says. 

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Engineering Alumnus and Entrepreneur Finds His Dream Job

Peter DAmico at his Rowan graduation in 2013

Meet Peter D’Amico, a 2013 Rowan alumnus from Mays Landing, NJ (Atlantic County). Today he shares his experience in the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering and how far his time at Rowan has taken him. 

“Rowan taught me how to talk to people, be social and gave me the ability to get the job I want.” 

Rowan engineering alumnus Peter D'Amico working for the FAA

After struggling to choose a college, Peter decided to attend Rowan University for its smaller class sizes and more intimate learning experience. Before going away to college, he wasn’t fully set on a career path. The one thing he knew for sure is that he loved to “break things down and figure out how they worked.” 

Eventually, he decided to pursue Electrical and Computer Engineering. Peter noted that he is forever grateful for the College of Engineering, especially Professor John Schmalzel. He recalls spending time in Professor Schmalzel’s office, where they talked about everything under the sun. 

After leaving Rowan, Peter began his career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he worked as an electrical/computer/mechanical engineer. His job was to travel around the country to collect pavement data for the National Airport Pavement Testing Facility. After two years of working as a contractor, he was promoted to a computer engineer position. Now within the test and evaluation branch, he became the first member of the storyboarding team, where his job is to “communicate the complexities of the National Airspace System (NAS).”

Rowan College of Engineering alumnus Peter D'Amico (pictured at right)

“I work directly with the engineers, programmers and human factors experts to tell the story of the NAS. I love the fact that I am on the front lines communicating these elaborate programs to people all over the country,” he said.

Along with being a successful engineer upon graduating, Peter is also a businessman and entrepreneur. A year after graduation, he purchased his first rental property in Glassboro. He has since bought two other properties and provides affordable housing to a number of current Rowan students.

Rowan alumnus Peter D'Amico wearing a T-shirt with his business namePeter also started a YouTube Channel, The Sundae Drive, where he and a fellow Rowan alumnus perform DIY car maintenance tips. This channel currently has more than 5,000 subscribers. On top of all of this, he launched a supplement company, PWR Supplements, with another Rowan alumnus. 

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Story by:
Chad Wittmann, senior journalism major

Photos courtesy of:
Peter D’Amico 

First Year Voices: Civil & Environmental Engineering Major Christian Smith

Rowan Choice orientation outside of WIlson Hall
Christian Smith, future freshman and engineering major, at Rowan Choice orientation

“I’m looking forward to meeting new people, seeing the experiences that college will take me and finding a path that will lead to my future.” — Christian Smith, a Civil & Environmental Engineering major from Lawrenceville, NJ (Mercer County)

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Story and photography by:
Justin Borelli, senior advertising major

Where Is He Now? Rowan Chemical Engineering Alumnus Theodore Cohen

Engineering Hall at Rowan University

Rowan alumnus Theodore Cohen at his office at IPS

Today we feature chemical engineering alumnus Theodore Maxwell Cohen, originally from Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County). Now residing in Gladwyne, PA, he works as a project engineer on the design of pharmaceutical facilities at Integrated Project Services, LLC (IPS). Cohen shares with us how Rowan University helped him figure out what he was truly passionate about.

Before getting his bachelor’s in 2009 and his master’s in 2016 from Rowan, Cohen had to choose what university he wanted to attend. 

“I applied to nine schools and got into all nine of them. I eliminated five of them that were pretty far away. Both of my sisters had gone to college far away, and I saw that it wasn’t all that fun. I filtered it down to Rowan, Rutgers and Udel (University of Delaware),” said Cohen.

After eliminating Rutgers from his list due to the immense campus Rutgers has, it was down to the University of Delaware and Rowan. Cohen visited the University of Delaware and asked, “How are you going to help me succeed?” Cohen said the University of Delaware responded, “We take about 100 chemical engineering majors (ChE’s) every year. We graduate 50 of them as chemical engineers, and the rest we find something for them to do.” He thought, “Huh, those aren’t terribly great odds.”

Cohen then visited Rowan and met with Dr. C. Stewart Slater, professor and founding chair of the chemical engineering department. He asked the same question, and Dr. Slater said: “Well, we take about 30 ChE’s and we graduate around 23 of them as chemical engineers. But if you are willing to work hard, we will help you be successful.”

“At the end of the day, that and my scholarship is why I chose Rowan,” said Profile picture of Rowan alumnus Theodore CohenCohen.

The program has since doubled both its enrollment and full-time faculty, yet still maintains a small faculty-to-student ratio.  

During his time at Rowan, Cohen mentioned that he met some incredible faculty mentors, who really made a positive influence on him.

“I had a couple of great mentors that impacted my life. One of them was Chuck Clerecuzio. He was an adjunct professor who taught a senior level course in biopharmaceutical facility design,” said Cohen. “It was the course that I took that made me realize what I wanted to do in my life. Chuck was my mentor for many years. Unfortunately, Chuck passed away recently.”

Another great mentor who helped Cohen was Dr. Brian Lefebvre. Dr. Lefebvre was a chemical engineering professor at Rowan University from 2004-2008. While completing research for Dr. Lefebvre, Cohen was able to get a paper published as the primary author.

“His specialty was bio process, which is what I really loved. I did three and a half years’ worth of lab work and research for him learning the basics of upstream and downstream bioprocessing. He helped me get a paper published while I was an undergraduate on anion-exchange chromatography,” said Cohen. “We became friends while I was a student, and continued that friendship with him long after I graduated. Brian helped me get my first job out of school at DuPont working on a similar project to his.”

Cohen is currently working at IPS as a project engineer for the design of pharmaceutical facilities. His role is to ensure that the design of the facility is cohesive and meets all of the numerous requirements from both the client perspective as well as regulatory.

His advice for Rowan students is: “Work hard. Try to learn as much as you can. Don’t be so wrapped up in your grades, they’re important but not that important. Learn the information and try to figure out what you love because you will spend the next 40 years working. Do something you enjoy.”

Cohen is thankful for figuring out what he loves. “Brian and Chuck helped me figure out what I was passionate about,” said Cohen.

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Story and photography by: 
Iridian Gonzalez,
 senior journalism major 

Where is He Now? A First-Generation PCI Alumnus

Meet Pre-College Institute (PCI) alumnus Ishraqul Wara, a first-generation student and 2018 graduate from the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. Wara lives in Clementon, NJ (Camden County) and works as a manufacturing engineer for Omega Engineering. Ishraqul will share with us how PCI helped shape his Rowan experience and where he is today.

What inspired you to choose your major? “My grandfather inspired me to be an engineer, so I got it started. [But] my first year here, I was not an engineering major. I got introduced to the engineering [program] and I became friends with many from the department. I started going into the rotation and I just applied. They accepted me, and that was the transition from PCI to an engineering major.”

How did the PCI program help you prepare for Rowan? “Many ways, I don’t think I can count all the things I learned from PCI and all the things it did for me — especially all the relationships it helped me build. It definitely helped me in my studies. [There are] so many ways they supported me throughout my four years here.”

What was it like being a first-generation student in PCI? “I think half ofIshmaqel a mechanical engineer in a navy blue suit us in PCI were first-generation students. So, I didn’t feel alone because we were on the same page. We understood the situation we were in. It was a mixture [in our] group, and that is why PCI is so great, it builds relationships and gives support out for people who need it.”

What are you doing currently? “I’m working at Omega Engineering as a manufacturing engineer.”

What advice would you give to our future freshmen? “Make connections.”

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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major

First Year Voices: Twins Dillon and Chase Weigand

Dillon Weigand and Chase Weigand, new freshmen at Rowan University, pose in a silly way with the Henry Rowan statue

Watch out, world! These incoming freshmen — Chase Weigand (left) and Dillon Weigand (right) of Ocean Gate, NJ (Ocean County) — are ready to start their four years at Rowan in just a few months. We caught up with them today as they visited campus for the first time, ready to put down a deposit with their family. 

Dillon Weigand puts his arm around twin Chase Weigand in front of the Henry Rowan statue at Rowan UniversityFirst-generation college students, Chase will major in biological sciences within the College of Science & Mathematics and Dillon will major in biomedical engineering within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. 

How did they end up at Rowan? “It just kinda happened,” Chase says — which is the case for so many students. The brothers looked at other state schools, but ultimately decided on Rowan. 

They decided not to room together and are actively seeking roommates for the upcoming year. Both share that the biggest thing they’re looking forward to in September is getting to know campus and make new friends. 

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Photography by: Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major

Faculty PROFile: Engineering’s Dr. Cheryl Bodnar

Meet Dr. Cheryl Bodnar, Assistant Professor Experiential Engineering Education (ExEEd) within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering and Assistant Director of Faculty Programs Rowan Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RCIE)

What is your area of expertise?

My research areas focus on game-based learning and engineering entrepreneurship. With both of these research areas, my focus is on how to improve the classroom experience so that engineering students can leave my classes well-rounded and ready to tackle the variety of Dr. Bodnar working with students in her freshmen clinic course.challenges that are integral to the engineering field. More specifically, my work within engineering entrepreneurship focuses on the development of an entrepreneurial mindset.  This doesn’t necessarily mean that students will start their own businesses, but that they will develop an innate curiosity about the world around them, be able to connect ideas and concepts from different classes, and, together, create products and/or services that will provide great value to the community around them.

Share an “a ha!” moment that you’ve had within your discipline that made you feel passionate about your field.

One of my greatest “a ha!” moments was when I could see differences in my students a few years after they had been exposed to the game-based learning techniques that I apply in my classes for developing an entrepreneurial mindset. I knew deep down that these methods of teaching would make a difference in the students and help them develop into individuals who would be prepared to take on the challenges of today’s world. However, when a student came back to me a few years after I taught them to share that they used one of the games they played in class as an example in a job interview, it really brought home that the use of these techniques is leaving a memorable impression on my students. This experience reinforced to me how leveraging teaching methods that actively engage our students and challenge them to work outside their comfort zone can really help in their overall professional development and lead to lasting memories they can draw upon.

Describe for us an experience you’ve had with a student that made you feel excited about educating the next generation in your field.

I have had several great experiences with students in my time at Rowan.  With regards to Engineering Entrepreneurship, I believe one of my most memorable experiences is engaging with students as both a teacher and advisor.  I have one student that I had the fortunate opportunity to teach and then advise as they are moving through the Engineering Entrepreneurship program.  This student brings such a passion to Dr. Cheryl Bodnar flipping through a book in her office at the engineering building.everything that they do and is eager and open to learning whatever is necessary to be successful.  The student often challenges the status quo and looks for opportunities to improve their and other students’ experiences on campus, thus applying an entrepreneurial mindset in and out of the classroom.

Engineering Entrepreneurship focuses on providing students with a technical foundation within engineering while providing students with the necessary business skills to become innovators within existing organizations or start their own businesses.  I think that we too often overlook how essential business skills are to the engineering profession; this degree brings to the forefront that blending these skillsets can lead to new possible career directions that our engineering students may not have considered. 

What is one thing you wish people knew about your academic discipline or your research focus?

I really wish that individuals would realize that Engineering Entrepreneurship is not exclusively for individuals that would like to start a business.  Although this is one potential career pathway, most of the program is really focused around providing students with the technical and business skills necessary to take on critical and essential roles in the engineering industry.  The jobs our students will excel at include business developers and technical sales positions, and other positions that interface directly with customers.  The skillsets taught within this program focus on the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset which means students can recognize opportunities, are comfortable with ambiguity, can persist A portrait of Dr. Bodnar at her desk located in the engineering building.through failure, and can manage risk.  These are skill sets that are so important to today’s society when the economy is constantly changing and individuals are having to pivot their careers.

What’s your favorite thing about being on campus on a typical Tuesday?

My favorite thing about Tuesdays is my chance to interact with junior and senior engineering students through our junior and senior engineering clinic program.  As part of this program, students are grouped into teams that are assigned to work on different faculty projects.  I always enjoy having discussions with my student teams and seeing how their curiosity has led them to new areas of investigation.  Several of these projects are grant funded, which means the students are working towards publications that allow them to showcase their work to regional and national audiences.  The amount of growth I observe in the students over the course of a semester is incredible and although not explicit, I believe that many of these students develop aspects of an entrepreneurial mindset as they start to recognize opportunities for further development, persist through failure, and deal with the ambiguity associated with research.

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Story and photography by: Alyssa Bauer, junior public relations major

Passing the Torch: Engineering Major Shares His Tips

To connect with internships and job opportunities, “attend the Career Fair on campus” through the Office of Career Advancement, says Philadelphia resident and first-generation college graduate Cornelius Middleton, who earned a master’s degree in engineering management through the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. Cornelius served as a graduate coordinator in Mimosa Hall while earning his graduate degree. 

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Story and photography by:
Dean Powers, rising sophomore radio/TV/film major

#PROFspective: International Student Gatha Adhikari

Today, we speak with Gatha Adhikari, a sophomore biomedical engineering major from Begnas Tal, Pokhara (Nepal), who lives at Holly Pointe Commons as a Resident Assistant. Gatha will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be an international Rowan University student and how she’s getting the most out of her college experience as a Rowan Prof.

How is Rowan welcoming to you? During the Flying First Symposium by Rowan’s Flying First Task Force for first generation college students, I was invited to speak on the panel to Gatha Adhikari posing in front of her Resident Assistant sign in Holly Pointe Commons.share my journey. To see the first generation alums and get their support made me feel welcomed and a sense of belonging.

Could you tell us a little bit about being a first generation college student? My family is back home in a small village in Nepal and were supportive to let me come here for my studies. Being first-gen is a point of pride in itself, but is also a big struggle. As a first-gen student, I am able to accomplish the dreams of my parents and inspire my community. I affirm for the young ones that they can live their dreams and achieve immense opportunities. Gatha Adhikari mixing a solution in the Science Hall.

Tell us a little bit about the sacrifice that you and your family has made in order to make college a reality for you.  My family and community have made a big emotional sacrifice to let me come to this foreign land and study while my other friends got married without finishing their education. While my family could have kept me home to assist them with their agriculture, they decided to let me fly away and be independent, which means a lot to me. I have left behind my friends and family who are very close to my heart, my traditions and festivities behind and work days and nights to make college a reality.

How do you feel your family will feel when they watch you walkGatha Adhikari posing in the first floor in Engineering Hall. across that graduation stage? I can imagine the tears of joy in the eyes of both my parents and brother when I finish my degree and graduate. They have dedicated their love and sacrificed so much to make it happen. My parents’ goal in life will be fulfilled when they see my accomplishments. My graduation ceremony will mean a lot.

What organization is most meaningful to you on campus? I work as a Resident Assistant (RA) for the Residential Learning and University Housing which means a lot to me. As a team, we strive to build communities within Rowan’s campus to provide the best possible residential life experience to Rowan students so they can find a home away from home here. The residents I lead are a part of an engineering learning community in Holly Pointe Commons

Gatha Adhikari handing a beaker to her professor in Science Hall.

Tell us about your transition into college and how you pushed through any challenges. Leaving everyone I knew and my home country behind when coming to Rowan has been a challenging journey. I have faced numerous obstacles along the way including financial difficulty, as I don’t get any financial aid for being an international student and it is hard to find scholarships I am eligible to apply for. I still have this problem, but I work hard, work on-campus and apply to every scholarship I can.

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Story and photography by: Alyssa Bauer, junior public relations major

#PROFspective: Mechanical Engineering Major Morgan Dean

Today, we speak with Morgan Dean, a senior mechanical engineering major who rents a house off campus with friends. Morgan 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 Rowan Prof.

Name: Morgan DeanMorgan Dean sitting in Rowan's Engineering building.
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Minors or concentrations: Writing Arts, Mathematics; Bantivoglio Honors College
Year: Senior
Hometown and County: Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County)
Off-Campus resident: Yes, I live in a house on University Boulevard with my five roommates!
Do you work on campus? If so, where/what do you do? I work as a tutor in the Rowan University Writing Center (in Campbell Library)

Morgan Dean sitting in front of the Engineering auditorium. What wakes you up in the morning? The thrill of getting to do and/or learn something new. Also, I love to have my morning coffee while reading!

What is one thing you wish people knew about your academic discipline or research focus? I find that being a girl in engineering, especially one of the five or six in the MechE undergraduate program, is more advantageous than most realize. Additionally, although mechanical engineering tends to be associated with cars/engines/etc., the possibilities of post-undergraduate work are endless. You’re in no way tied down to any one field of work.

What is one thing this field has allowed you to do, that you either Morgan Dean showing Rowan student something on her laptop.dreamed of doing or thought you’d never get to do? Through its interdisciplinary program, mechanical engineering sparked my interest in biomedical engineering. Although I once said I would never take another biology class again, I am now set to be a PhD Biomedical Engineering student come Fall 2019.

Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you? The Rowan Writing Center has provided me with a sense of belonging ever since I began working there. The staff took me in immediately as family and I always feel a sense of peace while in the space.

Morgam Dean posing in front of the pond in back of the Engineering building.Why Rowan?  I have made some incredible student-professor relationships here which have shaped my future by unlocking my potential. Professors Dr. Staehle, and Dr. Merrill and Writing Center Director Celeste DelRusso have exposed me to new areas of research through the engineering clinic curriculum, summer programs, and professional development conferences. Additionally, I would never have been accepted to graduate school if it weren’t for these valuable connections I made.

Like what you see, come visit us!

VISIT CAMPUS​​

Story and photography by: Alyssa Bauer, junior public relations major

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Katherine Villacis

Katherine Villacis sitting in the bridge connecting Rowan's Engineering building.

Meet transfer student Katherine Villacis, a junior civil engineering major  from Beverly, NJ (Burlington County) who is a resident assistant here on campus. Katherine recently served as a student panelist on Rowan’s first-generation college student symposium, hosted by Flying First

Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you?

“One of my first experiences since I transferred was just taking the leap and getting involved. Being an RA helps me know what’s going on around campus and connect me to resources. I’ve met returning and professional staff who want to see me succeed. Flying First, Rowan’s support program for first-generation college students, is also welcoming environment. We recently had a symposium that was open to other schools, with student panelists discussing their first generation experience.”

Why did you choose Rowan?

“I chose Rowan because of convenience. I went to Rowan College at Burlington County and the programs here made it easier for me to transfer. I didn’t know at first where I wanted to go, but heard great things about the engineering program and knew this was something that could work out.”

Like what you see? 
LEARN MORE

Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, junior public relations major

#PROFspective: Civil Engineering Major Joseph Cerasi

Today, we speak with Joseph Cerasi, a junior civil engineering major who rents a house off campus. Joseph 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 Rowan Prof. Name: Joseph Cerasi Major: Civil Engineering Year: Junior […]

#PROFspective: Electrical & Computer Engineering Major DJ Stahlberger

DJ sitting inside electrical lab

Today, we speak with DJ Stahlberger, a junior electrical and computer engineer major from Pittsgrove, NJ (Salem County) who commutes. DJ 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 Rowan Prof. Name: DJ StahlbergerMajor: Electrical and […]

Engineer Furthers Her College Experience

Kelly outside Rowan College of Engineering sign outside

Like a proton, Kelly Yorke has a positive charge, driving her to go above and beyond in her field. The New York state resident, a chemical engineering major, became president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) at Rowan as a sophomore, a remarkable feat, and continued on through her junior year. Heavily involved with […]

Students Unify Rowan through Unified Sports

Kaitlee and Joseph sit on a bench together

 Co-presidents of Unified Sports, seniors Kaitlee Francisco, an elementary education and mathematics major from Washington Township (Gloucester County) and Joseph Egan, a mechanical engineering major from Fairfield (Essex County) contribute to the Rowan and South Jersey communities in ways that go far beyond the classroom.  On Nov. 3, Kaitlee and Joseph were elated to see […]

First Year Voices: Edythe Nepomuseno

student wearing a rowan shirt on bunce green

“I really enjoy the campus. I enjoy the class sizes. I can have one-on-one with my professors and it makes it really easy being able to transition from high school to college. Being able to have that same relationship with your professors as you did in high school is reassuring,” Edythe Nepomuseno. Biomedical engineering major, Blackwood, […]

Sophomore Biomedical Engineering Major Jeremy Decker

Jeremy inside science lab at college of engineering

“We’re creating microfluidic devices to take analytical measurement of biologically significant molecules. Now, I know that sounds confusing…” When I first met with Jeremy, he spoke a language I probably could only follow about 80 percent of the time … but after listening to him explain and talk about his work, I walked away with […]

#PROFspective: Civil Engineering Major Sidney McLeod-Whitener

Sidney in track pose outside the track field at Rowan

Today, we speak with Sidney McLeod-Whitener, a freshman civil engineering major from Philadelphia (Philadelphia County), PA, who lives on campus in Holly Pointe. Sidney 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 Rowan Prof. Name: […]

Sidney, Video Tour Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering at Rowan University

Sidney stands on the outside balcony of the new engineering building at Rowan University

Hey! I’m Sidney, a freshman at the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. Welcome to my College, and to Rowan University. Like what you see? Register for a tour or open house.  Video Created By: Alexander Belli, public relations and advertising double major Vanessa Vause, public relations major Jayce Williams, music industry major

Accepted Students Reception: Engineering Edition

College of engineering students on a campus tour

Future Rowan engineering students and their family members attended the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering  accepted student reception where they were exposed to components of each program and able to get a sense of what it’s like to be an engineering student here at Rowan. The day began with a welcome from the university’s provost, James […]

#PROFspective: Computer Science & Electrical and Computer Engineering Major Josiah Bell

Today, we speak with Josiah Bell, a freshman electrical & computer engineering and computer science double major from Pemberton (Burlington County), NJ, who lives on campus in Holly Pointe Commons. Josiah 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 […]

#PROFspective: Chemical Engineering Major Dylan Regan

Today, we speak with Dylan Regan, a freshman chemical engineering major from Toms River (Ocean County), NJ, who lives on campus in Holly Pointe Commons. Dylan 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 […]

#PROFspective: Mechanical Engineering Major Alexa Aulicino

Alexa standing outside of Engineering building

Today, we speak with Alexa Aulicino, a freshman mechanical engineering major from Cinnaminson (Burlington County), NJ, who lives on campus in Holly Pointe Commons. Alexa 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 Rowan […]

#PROFspective: Philosophy & Religion, Biological Sciences Major Mahaa Ahmed

Mahaa stands in a dress, with arms outstretched

Today, we speak with Mahaa Ahmed, a junior philosophy and religion studies and biological sciences double major from Washington Township (Gloucester County), NJ, who resides on campus in 220 Rowan Boulevard. Mahaa 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 […]

#PROFspective PROS Edition: Civil and Environmental Engineering Major Marissa Ciocco

standing on bridge holding 12 sign

Today, we speak with Marissa Ciocco, a junior civil and environmental engineering major from East Greenwich, NJ, who resides on campus in the Whitney Center. Marissa will give us insight on her career as being a member of Rowan PROS and will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan […]

#PROFspective PROS Edition: Chemical Engineering Major Steven Schwartz

hands up in front of Holly Pointe

Today, we speak with Steven Schwartz, a senior chemical engineering major from Manahawkin, NJ, who resides on campus in Holly Pointe Commons as a resident assistant. Steven will give us insight on his career as being a member of Rowan PROS and will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University […]

#PROFspective PROS Edition: Engineering Entrepreneurship and Music Industry Major Jeff McConnell Jr.

unified sports club

Today, we speak with Jeff McConnell Jr., a sophomore engineering entrepreneurship and music industry double major from Marmora, NJ, who will live on campus in Whitney Center this year. Jeff will give us insight on his career as being a member of Rowan PROS and will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like […]

Roommates Reflect: What It’s Really Like to Live With You, Whitney Center [VIDEO]

brick facade of Whitney Center

What will they say? Whitney Center on Rowan Boulevard roommates Elizabeth Leick (sophomore writing arts and public relations double major), Hanna Dietrich (sophomore biomedical engineering major) and Olivia Grasso (sophomore history and modern languages and linguistics major) dish on what it’s really like to live with roommates at Rowan University. By: Natalia Panfilova, senior public […]

#PROFspective: Chemical Engineering Major Nick Testa

student inside whitney center

Today we speak with Nick Testa, a sophomore chemical engineering major from Hainesport, Burlington County, who lives on campus in Whitney Center. Nick 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 Rowan Prof. Name: Nick Testa Major: Chemical […]

#PROFspective: Electrical and Computer Engineering Major Matthew Sambucci

student works in engineering lab

Today we speak with Matthew Sambucci, a senior electrical and computer engineering major from Mt Laurel, Burlington County, who rents a house off campus with friends. Matthew 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 Rowan […]

4 Rowan Scholarship Awardees Share Their Stories

Back in November I had a pleasure to meet with Steven C. Farney, Ed.D., senior director of administration from the Division of Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM), who shared information every Rowan student needs to know when applying for scholarships. If you had a chance to read that post, then you should be an expert in […]

#PROFspective: Biomedical Engineering Major Amanda Burke

student stands behind a desk

Today we speak with Amanda Burke, a junior biomedical engineering major from Toms River, Ocean County, who rents a house off campus. Amanda 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 Rowan Prof.  Name: […]

#PROFspective: Mechanical Engineering Major Lexi Basantis

Today we speak with Lexi Basantis, a senior mechanical engineering major from Medford Lakes, Burlington County, who lives off campus with friends. Lexi 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 Rowan Prof.  Name: […]

#PROFspective: Chemical Engineering Major John Schneider

Today we speak with John Schneider, a senior chemical engineering major from Glassboro, Gloucester County, who lives on campus in Whitney Center apartments. John 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 Rowan Prof.  […]

#PROFspective: Biomedical Engineering Major Shanna Davidson

Student stands in front of dorms

Today we speak with Shanna Davidson, a junior biomedical engineering major from Pretoria, South Africa, who lives on campus in residence hall Laurel Hall. Shanna 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 Rowan […]

#PROFspective: Biomedical Engineering Major Haley Schappell

biomedical engineering major Haley stands in a workshop lab

Today we speak with Haley Schappell, a sophomore biomedical engineering major from Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, who lives in Whitney Center apartments at Rowan. Haley 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 Rowan Prof.  Name: […]

High Schoolers Catapult Their Way to Pumpkin Chunkin’ Win

high school students engineered tools to throw pumpkins

Hear ye, hear ye! On Friday, Oct. 28, 2016 Rowan University’s South Jersey Tech Park lawn became a battleground of the medieval kind. The university’s chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) hosted the annual Pumpkin Chunkin’, with schools around the region building high-caliber trebuchets to participate in an epic pumpkin-launching competition. This […]