Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
harley flack mentoring program
Profs Abroad: Stephanie in Paris (and Other Parts of France)
Alumni Success Stories Explore how our alumni propel their Rowan University education into lasting success, as highlighted through our alumni success series. From Rowan University student to lifelong member of the Rowan University Alumni Association, Rowan Profs thrive at every stage of their journey. Go Profs!
Alumni Success: Stephanie Ibe and How She Became a Teaching Assistant in France
Today we speak with Stephanie Ibe, a 2020 graduate who majored in Biological Sciences with a minor in French and Honors and Pre-med concentrations. Stephanie stayed in Le Havre, France for seven months while working as a teaching assistant through the TAPIF Program. Stephanie comes from Franklin Park, NJ in Somerset County. She was involved […]
Senior Reflects: Anderson Chumpitaz on Mentorship and His Rowan Legacy
Today we feature first-generation college student Anderson Chumpitaz, who will graduate this summer. Anderson majors in Health Promotion and Wellness Management and is from Newark, NJ (Essex County). He gives advice and tells us about his involvement on campus. Do you have any advice for people who are moving to campus for the first time […]
#PROFspective: Public Relations Major Serina Gonzalez
Today, we speak with Serina Gonzalez, a senior Public Relations major and Strategic Communication minor from Little Ferry, NJ (Bergen County) who lives on-campus. Serina 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: Serina Gonzalez
Year: Senior
Major: Public Relations
Minors: Strategic Communication
Hometown: Little Ferry, NJ (Bergen County)
Academic or social clubs: Volunteerism mentor, Animal Advocacy Club and the Dr. Harley Flack Student Mentoring Program
Why did you choose Rowan? After going on a tour of Rowan, I knew it was the school I wanted to attend. It stood out from the other schools I toured because it didn’t feel like anything was forced. People actually seemed genuine. It made me feel comfortable, and I wanted to be a part of that.
Did you ever have a moment of uncertainty within your major? How did you get through the challenge? I honestly never had a moment of uncertainty within my major. I feel like I found a subject that keeps me inspired. I would not have learned my passion for PR if I did not go through other majors’ courses.
What got you interested in your intended field? I began taking all communications courses and realized it wasn’t for me. I definitely needed to find a balance to a communications-oriented career, but allowed more flexibilty. I talked to my advisers who introduced me to public relations. I took Intro to PR and fell in love. I immediately switched my major.
Was there a specific mentor that you would turn to about your degree/field? How did they help you? My academic advisor for the ASCEND program, and everyone in that office, acted as my mentor for years. They helped introduce me to the program.
How has your overall experience been so far? What is your favorite accomplishment? Working in the Office of Volunteerism is really rewarding because it gives me exactly what I’m looking for. Later in life, I plan to be a teacher. Overall, the kids are always so happy and make my sad days so much better. I learn a lot from them … being a kid is a good thing.
What has been the most meaningful experience you’ve had while volunteering so far? One day, I was helping a little girl making cards for old people. While every other kid was working on their third card, she was still on her first. I looked at her card to see why it was taking her so long, and it was because her card was perfect. She’s a true artist.
What knowledge or skills have you developed through this opportunity that you will take with you for future endeavors? In the future, I plan on volunteering on the side. Volunteering taught me how to be a better person, even though it’s not only about being a good person. It’s just something you’re supposed to do.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
Inspiring Change Through Biology and Africana Studies
“Sophomore year, I took an introductory course to Africana Studies as an elective and fell in love with it. It opened my eyes to so many things — politics, race, issues in society. I decided, ‘I have to add this minor!’” she says. Her involvement from there snowballed as she acquired leadership positions in the […]