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Brighter Days Ahead: What Rowan Students Are Looking Forward to with Longer Days

Posted on December 21, 2020July 22, 2025by Adeline McDonald

We ask Rowan students what they’re looking forward to after the Winter Solstice!

“I’m looking forward to my bedroom having natural light longer into the day as I find myself more productive with my curtains open and having the sun illuminate my room.” – Tommy Bell, senior, Music Industry major, Brigantine, NJ (Atlantic County)

“I look forward to spending my longer days working and getting in tune with myself. There will include many self-care days, which I highly recommend everyone do. I also plan on spending my days with family and friends that are close to me. This year has been a roller coaster but what I have learned was to appreciate and spend time with the people you love the most, tomorrow is not promised.” – Keianna Williams, sophomore, Law & Justice & Political Science major, first-generation college student, Essex County, NJ

Ashley smiling and posing for a picture wearing a pink sweater.

“With longer days ahead, I am looking forward to having more sunlight. It not only means spring is slowly approaching, but it also symbolizes a new beginning and offers a strand of hope. As we gain a little bit of sun each day, surely the levels of productivity and positivity will also increase.” – Ashley Chan, sophomore, Communication Studies major, West Windsor, NJ (Mercer County)

“I am looking forward to longer days so I can be more productive and be outside more. Longer days means it is starting to be warmer out, which is my favorite time of the year. ” – Sheridan Kapuscinski, senior, Elementary Education and Liberal Studies dual major, Andover, NJ (Sussex County)

Angelica sitting on the giant chair on Rowans Bunce field while wearing a yellow shirt to match.

“What I’m looking forward to with longer days ahead is being able to take a break from school and relaxing with family and friends. This fall semester has been very difficult and stressful, even more so with the pandemic, so it’s nice to be able to take time for myself and focus on bettering my mental health. I’m excited for the holidays that are coming up and being able to spend quality time with my family. I’m looking forward to sleeping in and having my schedule open to doing anything I want.” – Angelica Petroche, sophomore, Advertising major with a Strategic Communication minor, Maplewood, NJ (Essex County)

“I look forward to being around family and friends who support me and push to succeed at my highest potential. ” – Keshawn Porter, sophomore, Law and Justice major with a Psychology minor, first generation college student, Newark, NJ (Essex County)

Teresa posing for a portrait shot outside the Engineering building.

“I’m looking forward to catching up on some sleep and spending more time with my family.” – Teresa Sroczynski, sophomore, Civil Engineering, Bel Air, MD

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Musical Theatre Major Lennon Heitz and Acting Major Shayla Hermann

Posted on December 19, 2020July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today, we speak to Musical Theatre major Lennon Heitz and Acting major Shayla Hermann! These first years both reside on campus in Magnolia Hall and Holly Pointe Commons. Lennon is from Middletown, DE and Shayla is from Pennington, NJ (Mercer County). They tell us a little more about living on campus and why they chose Rowan.

Lennon and Shayla posing together. — Lennon (right) and Shayla (left) hanging out on Rowan Boulevard.

How did you two meet?

Shayla: We met each other through a Theatre Snapchat group chat!

How are your dorms? Have you met your RA?

Lennon: I live in Magnolia! I’ve met my RA and I’ve met a few of the girls, we’ve said “Hi!” The courtyard is super pretty.

Shayla: I live in Holly Pointe. I love it there! AC is great. The dining hall and Starbucks are really convienient too. My roommate and I have met some people in our pod too. One of our friends is on the same floor as us!

Lennon wearing a purple mask. — Lennon on Rowan Boulevard.

Looking to join any clubs?

Shayla: Definitely! I need to look into it some more. I was just waiting to get settled in and stuff, but I definitely want to check it out.

Lennon: I don’t know yet! I haven’t delved into any clubs yet, but I really want to join the musicals.

Why Rowan?

Lennon: Rowan is actually the only school that I visited, and I ended up loving it! I felt like everyone was very friendly. I felt like it had hometown feels. That was a big thing for me.

Shayla: I really loved their theatre program here. Everyone seemed really nice and encouraging and not that sense of competition that I got with other schools. Also, I just fell in love with the campus here. My cousin also went here!

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

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

Arts

Music To Listen To While Studying, According to 7 Music Majors

Posted on December 11, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Study area with earphones, laptop and notebook.

Need some study music recommendations? Let students from Rowan’s music majors give you some suggestions.

I really enjoy listening to NCT and Day6 when I study.

They have both nice songs for background music (ballads calm songs) and songs that are upbeat and fun to keep you awake and feel more energized.

How It Was Discovered: I’ve been listening to the K-Pop genre since 2011 so I knew about NCT since they debuted as a group and Day6 was one of the first groups I listened to when I got into the genre.

– Mia Visconti, Freshman, Music Therapy major, Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County)

The Chopin "Ballade no.1 in g minor Op.23" album cover.

Ballade no.1 in g minor Op. 23 by Chopin

Chopin was an amazing romantic composer and pianist whose pieces are very emotional and well written. It is great background music for studying or doing something important. I use it for tests all the time.

How It Was Discovered: From the movie “The Pianist”

– Anthony Jimenez, Freshman, Music Education and Music Performance major, Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County)

Samuel smiling for a photo on the Bunce Hall steps.

I suggest listening to Aladdin – Not3s.

This song has a very soothing vibe to help you vibe but still focus, with a little bit of Afro-beat tunes to groove to, very nice to study with.

How It Was Discovered: I discovered this song through the music streaming app AudioMack.

– Samuel Poku, Freshman, Music Industry major, Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County)

Plants – Crumb

It’s not too distracting and it’s soothing to listen to even when you aren’t doing homework.

How It Was Discovered: On my recommended songs in Spotify.

– Katie Alvarez, Sophomore, Music Education major, Passaic, NJ (Passaic County)

Darlin’ – Tobi Lou

It’s slow and I like his voice.

How It Was Discovered: From a friend

– Nayyirah Wood, Freshman, Music Education major, Philadelphia, Pa

The single cover for "walk but in the garden" by LLusion.

“walk but in the garden” – LLusion

Off the bat, you can recognize the chord progression remains in a major key. The melody has aspects of suspense and resolution, making it pleasing to the ear. A unique aspect about this song is that the melody and chord progression repeat consistently throughout the piece, easily making it uplifting background noise.

How It Was Discovered: I was editing a Spotify playlist of mine, and this song popped up in the recommended songs section. I find a lot of new music through this feature of Spotify’s playlists.

– Arianna Granda, Freshman, Vocal Music Education major, Bantiviglio Honors Concentration, Rockaway, NJ (Morris County)

Sweetest Somebody I Know – Nelson Rangell

The song just has a really chill vibe to it that you can just listen to in the background while doing other things.

– Tyler O’Shaughnessy, Sophomore, Music Education – Instrumental major, Atco, NJ (Camden County)

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Header photo courtesy of:
Unsplash

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My First Semester as a Transfer: The Adjustment

Posted on December 8, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Stephanie Batista, a sophomore Music Industry major from Toms River, NJ (Ocean County). Stephanie is a first-generation college student who transferred from Ramapo College of New Jersey this semester. She is a digital content contributor for Rowan Blog and is passionate about photography. Why did you choose Rowan? I chose Rowan because […]

Campus Life

Today I am Grateful for…

Posted on December 3, 2020July 27, 2021by Adeline McDonald

With the holiday season upon us, we spoke to Rowan students about what they are thankful and grateful for this year. This is what they had to say.

Jenna Fischer, a senior Public Relations major, says she is thankful for her family who supports her in every phase of her life. She says that no matter what dream and goal she has, she knows they will always stand by her side.

Jenna poses with her family. — Jenna (center) and her family.

Chase Shebey, a junior Marketing major, says that he is grateful for all the opportunities that Rowan University has given him.

Chase poses on the intramural field with a rugby ball.

Jessica Newell, a junior Communication Studies major, is grateful for her roommates who remind her that every accomplishment, no matter how small, is to be celebrated and that every problem can be somewhat improved by ordering pizza.

Jessica poses on the side of 301 High Street building.

Mya Calderon, a junior Journalism major, is grateful that she didn’t have to work on Thanksgiving again this year.

Mya sits next to flowers in front of the student center.

Jasmin Jones, a junior Law and Justice Studies and Sociology double major, is grateful for her loved ones and for all the opportunities she has been given.

Jasmin poses outside of the Rowan Boulevard Apartments.

John McCleery, a sophomore Civil Engineering major, is thankful for his siblings and how close they have become during COVID.

John poses in front of a waterfall wearing a Rowan shirt.

Lianna Johnson, a sophomore Vocal Music Performance major, is thankful to have been able to live on campus so far this semester. She is grateful to see old friends, make some new ones and even have an in-person class!

Lianna poses in front of Mimosa Hall.

Erwin Lopez, a sophomore Health and Exercise Science major, says that he is thankful for his family and the support they give him, especially during these uncertain times. He is also thankful for all of his friends that give him moral support.

Erwin poses in front of some trees.

Nickvens Delva, a freshman Psychology major, is thankful for many things, but he is most thankful for both his family and his health. He says that the most important thing to him is his family, so the health of his family and him during these unusual times is truly the biggest blessing to him.

Nickvens poses in front of Mimosa Hall.

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Story and photos of Chase, Jessica, Mya, Jasmin, Lianna and Nickvens by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major

Photo of Erwin by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Photo of Jenna provided by:
Jenna Fischer, senior public relations major

Photo of John provided by:
John McCleery, sophomore civil engineering major

Header photo courtesy of:
Unsplash

Future Transfer

PA to NJ: 7 Pennsylvanians Share If They’ve Adopted Any “Jersey” Tendencies

Posted on November 23, 2020April 9, 2021by Adeline McDonald

Exterior shot of Kailey Booth sitting on campus.

Today, 7 Pennsylvania native students reveal what New Jersey sayings, mannerisms or other traits — if any — have rubbed off on them.

Delaney posing outside the Campbell Library on campus.

I think I’ve picked up a little bit of the South Jersey accent. I’ve started saying “caw-fee” instead of coffee. Also, I miss being able to order pork roll whenever I go home. – Delaney Molnar, senior Theatre major with concentrations in Musical Theatre and Acting and a Spanish minor from Pittsburgh, PA

Kendall posing for a picture in a green shirt.

I’m originally from Jersey, so I always have it! – Kendall White, senior in Applied Sociology, Lumberton/Burlington, PA

Daniella posing outside Robinson and Wilson Hall on campus.

No way PA wins in this! – Daniella Emrich, sophomore, Elementary Education and History major from West Chester, PA

Brendan posing outside the Engineering building.

I’ve started calling it “pork roll.” – Brendan McGrath, junior Mechanical Engineering major with a concentration in Automotive Engineering from West Chester, PA

Kailey sitting on the Rohrer College of Business outdoor steps.

Pork roll, egg and cheese and cheesesteaks. – Kailey Booth, senior Marketing major from Easton, PA

Lindsay posing outside Holly Pointe Commons.

No, I think the Taylor ham/pork roll debate is as stupid as PA’s Wawa/Sheetz debate! – Lindsay Tobias, junior, Radio/TV/Film and Creative Writing major from Wayne, PA

I’ve gotten a slight accent! – Haley DiMezza, senior, Music Industry major with a specialization in Music Business, transfer from Chestnut Hill College and Des Moines Area Community College, from Montgomery County, PA

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photos not submitted by students taken by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Arts
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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Musical Theatre Majors Ben Helbert and Connor Shields

Posted on October 30, 2020July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today, we speak to freshmen Musical Theatre majors Ben Helbert and Connor Shields! Both out-of-state students, Ben is from Williamsburg, VA and Connor is from Holland, PA. They live on campus in Holly Pointe and Mimosa Hall. Here, they tell us more about their time at Rowan so far and why they like living on campus.

Connor and Ben sitting with each other outside the student center. — Connor (left) sitting with Ben (right) outside of the Student Center

How did you two meet each other?

Ben: My friend Leslie made a Facebook group chat. We got together through that chat but then decided to make a separate Performing Arts Snapchat group chat too.

Connor: So, that’s how a lot of us met each other beforehand through that. Now, here we are!

How do you like campus and New Jersey so far?

Connor: I love it here. I don’t want to go back home!

Ben: New Jersey is different than I expected. The cars are a lot louder here, but other than that, it’s pretty similar!

Connor sitting outside the student center while wearing a Rowan shirt.

How are classes going?

Ben: It’s going great! I had my voice lesson. I got to meet my voice teacher and figure out how I sound. It was good! At the moment my classes are online, but hopefully they will move to Hy-flex soon.

Where are you living on campus, and how do you like it?

Ben: I live in Holly Pointe. I like that Holly Pointe is colder, its so nice and I love the dining hall attached to it! I also love hanging out around Rowan Boulevard.

Connor: I live in Mimosa! I love living there. I like the vibe of it. It’s so nice that it’s right in the middle of campus, so I can just say “It’s a 5 minute walk, let’s go get something!”

Ben sitting and smiling for a photo outside the student center while wearing yellow crocs and Rowan gear.

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

#PROFspective
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- Arts
- Student Activities

#PROFspective: Music Education Major Austin Kurbansade

Posted on October 21, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Austin Kurbansade, a sophomore Vocal Music Education major from Roxbury Township, NJ (Morris County). He is an on-campus resident and is involved in the National Association of Music Education, American Choral Directors Association and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. He tells us today about his student experience and how connected he has felt at Rowan. […]

Campus Life
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- Student Activities

Seniors Share How They Have Grown From Their Freshman Year Mistakes

Posted on October 7, 2020March 19, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Rowan seniors Stephania Bocanegra, Alexander Brown and Aaron Lee reveal how their freshmen year mistakes helped them grow into the student leaders they are today.

Stephania Bocanegra, a Civil and Environmental Engineering major from Cape May, NJ (Cape May County), currently lives on campus as a Resident Assistant at Victoria Apartments. Stephania started off at a community college and transferred to Rowan.

“I wish I kept the work ethic I had as an honors student in high school to my first year of college,” she says. “By the time I transferred, I didn’t feel as prepared because I slacked off a bit in community college. My grades were good, but I didn’t need to work as hard. When I got to Rowan, I needed to start working harder because the classes were very different.”

Stephania quickly got into a groove at Rowan and began to flourish in the college environment. She is the Student Government Association officer for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the United Latinos Association.

Stephania poses with flowers in background. — Stephania Bocanegra

Alexander Brown is a Music Industry Business Major with minors in Africana Studies, Music, and a Vocal Concentration. He is originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica and currently lives on campus as a Resident Assistant in Chestnut Hall. He shared that as a freshman, he didn’t take advantage of all of the extracurricular options that are available at Rowan. “I was more focused on adjusting myself to college life, so I was nervous to try too many new things. As I continued to grow, I tried to join organizations and clubs to put myself out there and get involved to meet new people,” he says.

As a senior, Alex is now the President of Profecy Acapella Club and the Treasurer of music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha.

Alexander Brown stands near Wilson Hall. — Alexander Brown

Aaron Lee is a Chemistry and Public Relations double major from Portsmouth, Virginia. “A mistake I made my freshman year was not tapping into the resources around me,” he says. “Coming out of high school, I thought I had everything figured out, so I didn’t take advantage of a lot of things. Whether that was the tutoring services or even just sitting in the library to do my work instead of my room, I assumed that I could handle things the same way I always did. But college is very different. As I got older, I grew a lot by using what’s available on campus.”

Aaron is now the Assistant Resident Director of Evergreen and Magnolia Halls, an Orientation Leader and the President of both the Anime and Improv Clubs.

Aaron Lee in front of library columns. — Aaron Lee

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

Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Arts
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- Communication
- Hands-On Learning

Beyond The Classroom: Musical Theatre, RTF Double Major Shows Support For the Filipinx Community by Organizing a Talent Showcase For Charity

Posted on October 5, 2020August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Faith sitting and posing on the edge of a fountain.

Today, we speak to Faith Lynn Diccion, a junior Musical Theatre and Radio/ TV/ Film double major from Egg Harbor Township, NJ (Atlantic County). She currently lives on campus in the Rowan Boulevard Apartments. She tells us more about her work this past summer with the nonprofit organization EmbraceRace and how she put together a Filipinx talent showcase for charity.

First, how did you find Rowan?

I found Rowan after being scouted at the NJ Thespian Festival by one of the theatre professors my senior year of high school. I had never really thought about Rowan as a theatre school, but I was instantly captivated by the faculty and campus. So, I was eager to come and audition at the school.

Why did you choose your major?

Growing up, I loved participating in theatre productions and singing. I just found it natural to pursue what I loved as a kid in college. Watching Disney movies when I was younger also left a big impression on me and gave me a push toward a career in performance and art creation.

What is EmbraceRace? How did you get involved?

EmbraceRace is a nonprofit organization that provides resources to parents, teachers and all in order to help raise children in a community based on acceptance, understanding and equity. From March 2016-2020, EmbraceRace has published 170+ articles from many storytellers, 34 Talking Kids & Race webinars with over 9K registrants per session, 30K+ email subscribers and 90K+ Facebook fans, and partnerships with well-known organizations such as The American Psychological Association and The Prejudice and Intergroup Relations Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

I happened to stumble upon EmbraceRace’s website while researching for organizations to donate to for my final project with the DIAL National Fellowship with Metro Arts Nashville under Americans for the Arts.

At the time, I was brainstorming ideas for what causes I was most interested in supporting. In light of the surge in BLM protests and rallies, I wanted to show my support as well. Also, the slogan for EmbraceRace is “Raising a Brave Generation.” It really resonated within me and further strengthened my resolve to donate.

I organized this showcase to show support not only for my Filipinx community and heritage, but also for the BLM movement that paved the way for all of the following minorities to come to America.

How did you go about finding the talent for the showcase?

Finding the talent was super fun. All I had to do was reach out to my network of friends and acquaintances to see who would be interested in participating, and it all just happened to work out somehow. Some of the talents I know very well, and some of them I had never even met before. Still, we are all connected to each other. So it was really uplifting to be able to reach out to these wonderful performers and ask them to share their talents for a special cause.

A social media flyer for the Filipinx Talent Showcase. — Featured performers from the *Sa Bahay* (“At Home”) musical showcase.

What was a typical day like working with EmbraceRace?

Because this was an individual project under my Fellowship, I did not work exclusively with EmbraceRace to accomplish this. When the fundraising timeframe ends, I will personally send the money raised as a one-time donation on the EmbraceRace website. As of [early September], our goal of $500 has been met. But because we are still accepting donations, we are still receiving donations and have exceeded our goal by a substantial amount.

Any advice to students looking to get involved with EmbraceRace or advice in general?

Browsing their official website is a great place to start. They even have volunteer opportunities available for people looking for more active roles in the organization. Also, their donation button has options to either donate as an individual or set-up up a fundraiser. The individual donation option fit the best with my showcase’s structure, so I opted out of creating a fundraiser directly though the organization. All in all, EmbraceRace is a wonderful nonprofit with useful resources and a great community open to discussion, so I highly recommend checking them out!

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photos provided by:
Faith Lynn Diccion, musical theatre and RTF double major

Header photo courtesy of:
Unsplash

Arts
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Sophomore Reflects: Musical Theatre and Public Relations Double Major Erica Gerold

Posted on September 23, 2020July 22, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Erica sitting with friends on the Bunce Steps

Meet sophomore Erica Gerold, a Musical Theatre and Public Relations double major from Philadelphia. She’s also an on-campus resident who resided in Magnolia Hall this past year. Erica tells us more about what she enjoyed most about her first year at Rowan and shares advice for future freshmen.

Erica sitting with friends on the Bunce Hall steps. — Erica sitting with her roommates (from left to right: Mattie Millet, Hannah Kittrell, Erica Gerold and Emilia Weiss).

What did you most enjoy your freshman year at Rowan?

Something I enjoyed most here at Rowan were the amount of on-campus artistic opportunities I was able to have as a freshman! This past year I have been in directing scenes, written/done voiceover work at the art exhibit, “The Sister Chapel,” performed in our annual Holiday Celebration, “The Vagina Monologues,” devised cabaret “(di$) conn3cT*d” and “Urinetown: The Musical.” I have made amazing friends through our college and learned so much through its chances to create. I truly do not think I would be happier anywhere else.

Could you share with us one happy moment you had with friends, professors or other members of the Rowan community that made you realize Rowan felt like “home”?

Among many things I am beyond grateful to have been involved in this school year, the first that made me feel at home was rehearsing “(di$) conn3cT*d.” I was cast within my first month of moving to college when unfamiliarity was around every corner. Right away not only were the cast/creative team eager to hear the ideas of us freshmen, they were eager to make us feel welcome. I became so close with the people involved with that production, including my new best friend Elliot Colahan. The support the people of Rowan (my profs and classmates alike) have for us is nothing like I have seen anywhere else. Especially as a freshman, their care for me and the rest of my peers filled me with motivation and happiness. They make me feel lucky to be a part of this community.

Erica alongside the cast of a production called The Vagina Monologues. — Erica alongside the cast of The Vagina Monologues (directed by Robin Purtell and Chelsea Sharp, 2020).

What advice do you have for future freshmen looking at colleges right now?

Shadow! Leading up to College Decision Day, I actually had my mind set on committing to a different school. Once your choices are narrowed down, seeing a day in the life of your options really puts things into perspective. Once I shadowed my now dear friend Marisa Pelikan, the decision could not have been clearer that Rowan was the right fit for me (note: If you cannot shadow due to COVID-19, research schools to the best of your online abilities. Also, do not be afraid to reach out to their current students/profs!).

What are you most looking forward to next year at Rowan?

I am most looking forward to honing my skills as a double major! I currently combine my passions of PR and theatre as a member of the social media team for RUTD, a publicity officer for our Lab Theatre organization and the creator/writer for my school blog highlighting the Rowan University Department of Theatre & Dance, RUTDInsider. All of that being said, Public Relations students typically do not start taking major-based classes until their sophomore year. This fall I will be taking three of those classes and I am super excited to put all forthcoming knowledge into my current projects. I will be the first to admit learning/creating in the upcoming school year will be difficult due to the coronavirus, but I hope to push forward in making it happen any way I can.

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photos provided by:
Erica Gerold

Arts
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- Future Transfer

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Meet Music Industry Major Stephanie Batista

Posted on September 22, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Stephanie at Wilson Hall with greenery and flowers

Stephanie posing in front of the Campbell library Meet Stephanie Batista (she/her/hers), a transfer Music Industry major from Toms River, New Jersey (Ocean County). She will graduate with the Rowan Class of 2023. She tells us a little more about herself and why she chose Rowan!

What is one goal you have this semester?

To make friends despite difficulties with Covid and online classes.

Why did you choose your major?

I am a Music Industry major with a concentration in Business. It was something I knew I would be very happy doing and it would never feel like work because I love it.

What are you most excited for this semester?

I am most excited for the live shows.

What club/activity do you want to join on campus?

I want to join the Rowan Alternative Music Club!

Why Rowan?

Rowan has a great music scene and is very close to Philadelphia.

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

Arts
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- Hands-On Learning

Junior Major Moments: Theatre Major Caitlin Alvarez on Her Most Memorable Class and an Apprenticeship

Posted on September 1, 2020August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we speak to Caitlin Alvarez, a senior Theatre major from Dallas, TX. Caitlin is an on-campus resident who lived in 114 Victoria during her junior year at Rowan.

Theatre major Caitlin poses at a stadium.

Could you share your favorite moment with a faculty member or a favorite experience in one of your classes?

I’ve had so many amazing moments in my classes, but I think the most memorable overall was my Acting 1 class sophomore year. Professor Michael Dean Morgan is a terrific teacher and mentor, and I’ve learned a lot from him in the two years we’ve worked together.

What is the most amazing or interesting thing you’ve learned in your major this year?

I’m definitely a lot more confident now than I was in my freshman year or even sophomore year. This year I was able to let go of a lot of my insecurities and understand myself and my body much better, and a lot of that came from the classes I took.

Theatre major Caitlin poses with members of her theatre company.

What pre-professional experiences are helping to support your growth?

Last summer, I did an apprenticeship at Barrington Stage Company, which helped me grow tremendously. I got to understudy a role in a professional show and work with lots of professional performers, directors and musicians. It helped me realize not only that a career as a theatre artist was very much tangible, but that I was capable of a lot more than I had previously thought I was.

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

Future First Year

How I Made Friends At Rowan, Bianca’s Experience

Posted on August 25, 2020July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Bianca and friends happily greet a friend on Rowan Boulevard.

Hi! My name is Bianca Torres. I’m a senior Music Industry major with a minor in Marketing from Morris County, NJ who has lived on campus all four years. Going to college has helped me get out of my comfort zone and has helped me become a much more well-rounded individual! I know that adjusting to college can be tough – especially when it comes to meeting new people.

Going to Rowan was an easy decision for me. My sister had gone here before me so I already knew a lot about the school. It’s about two hours away from where I live so it was the perfect distance for me, and Rowan has a really great Music Industry program. So I was pretty confident in my decision to go there.

The one thing that I was a little nervous about: meeting new people. I was excited about being independent and on my own for the first time in college. However, it was hard for me at first to find people who I really enjoyed being with. I quickly realized that I was going to have to put myself out there more. Here’s what I did to make some new friends.

Reached Out to People I Already Knew.

My first friend in college is actually someone I went to high school with! Although we never talked in high school, I figured it would be a good start to talk to someone I related with at least a little bit! I came up to him one day in the Holly Pointe dining hall and we started eating together almost every day! We instantly became friends. Then he introduced me to Racquetball Club.

Joined Clubs and Sports Teams.

Through Racquetball Club, I’ve found a sport that I’ve never tried but ended up really liking and found some of my best friends! Being a part of a team is a great way to meet people with the same interests and makes you feel like you are a part of something. Without Racquetball, I would have never found my friends.

Marcella and I at my surprise 21st birthday party

Talked to My Classmates.

One of my best friends is someone who was sitting right next to me in class. The first day of classes is nerve wracking enough for a lot of us and finding the right seat is crucial. When I first walked in, I found a seat that I thought would be a good spot in the classroom. I never thought I would have ended up sitting next to my now best friend and roommate! We started doing class projects together, and I realized that we liked the same things and had the same sense of humor. Finally, I decided to ask if she wanted to get lunch with me one day. The rest is history.

Got To Know My Co-Workers.

I made some great friends through my on-campus job for the Rowan Blog! The great thing about on-campus jobs is that your co-workers are also usually students too. From going on shoots together, talking in the office, and getting lunch in between, it’s almost hard to not know a lot about the people I work with! I’m so grateful for the Rowan Blog and for all the great friends that I’ve made from the blog too.

There are so many ways to get involved on campus and to put yourself out there. It’s difficult adjusting to an entirely new environment and situation but one of the best things about going to a university is meeting all kinds of different and exciting people! Luckily, I found my people at Rowan!

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Story and Photos by:
Bianca Torres senior music industry major

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Musical Theatre Major Lexie Miller

Posted on August 21, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Meet Musical Theatre major Lexie Miller from Hampton, NJ (Hunterdon County). Lexie is looking forward to meeting new people and living on campus this fall!

A photo of Lexie in front of the owl statue on Rowan's campus.

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

I’m looking forward to living on campus and getting to meet new people! There are so many exciting things to do on campus, I can’t wait to start in the fall!

What is one activity, club, sport, or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue at Rowan?

I would like to play in a club women’s soccer team. I’ve played soccer since I was seven up until my sophomore year of high school and I’d like to pick it back up for fun!

How or why did you choose your major?

I chose my major, Musical Theatre, because I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I love performing and telling stories, which is why I also want to minor in Creative Writing. When I researched Rowan’s theatre program and auditioned in January, it automatically felt like home and the place I’d want to spend the next four years.

How did you get to know campus?

When I came to campus in January to audition for the Theatre program, it was the first time I saw anything about the campus. I was taken by surprise how much like home the campus felt just by riding through in my car. After I got accepted to the school and program, I took a tour and fell even more in love with the school and all it has to offer!

What music do you like?

I have a wide range of music I like, from Queen to Billie Eilish to Bruno Mars. I’m pretty much down to listen to any music!

Night owl or morning person?

I’m definitely a night owl, I can stay up late and feel fine, but if I have to wake up early It’s a struggle!

Why Rowan?

Rowan is and was my first choice because as soon as I stepped foot on campus I got a feeling that this was the place I wanted to be. It’s so welcoming and has so much to offer from the amazing programs to the fun atmosphere of Rowan Boulevard. I can’t wait for my freshman year to start and to begin my journey as a Rowan student!

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Story by:
Melanie Sbaraglio, public relations and advertising graduate

Photos by:
Lexie Miller

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- Commuter

Junior Major Moments: Theatre Major Julia R Stays Active on the Rowan Arts Scene

Posted on August 17, 2020September 2, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Theatre major Julia R from Waldorf, Maryland (Charles County). Julia also has a concentration in Pre-Teaching and is currently pursing her Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) in Theatre Education while commuting to campus.

Could you share your favorite moment with a faculty member or a favorite experience in one of your classes?

Some of my favorite faculty moments include being in the Theatre and Dance office with Caitlin Reed and Dr. Elisabeth Hostetter the past three years. I always have wonderful conversations with them about the professional world and they always seem to be able to guide me in the right direction when I need them. Being an out-of-state student, you truly want someplace to feel at home, and with Caitlin and Dr. Liz I never feel homesick.

Photo of Julia wearing a black shirt and glasses — Julia Rivenburg (right)

What is the most amazing or interesting thing you’ve learned in your major this year?

This year, the most interesting thing I learned was probably everything that goes into being a director. I waited very patiently to be able to take Directing with Lane Savadove and was so excited to be able to learn about how to apply viewpoints to your directing and being able to execute a point of view.

What pre-professional experiences are helping to support your growth?

Photo of Julia in front of Bunce Hall. — Julia fields calls on the steps of Bunce Hall.

As far as pre-professional opportunities, I am very fortunate have been a stage manager for multiple Lab Theatre and Mainstage Productions at Rowan, an executive board member for USITT (co-president 2019-2020, senator 2017-2019) and Rowan Lab Theatre (box office coordinator and co-publicity manager), and to currently be the resident house manager over in Bunce Hall’s Tohill Theatre, as well one of the student event coordinators for the Mid-Atlantic Regional College Auditions. Each of these opportunities has furthered my growth in the theatre management field and are titles that I wear proudly.

On top of all of the opportunities I have had the last three years, I am also pleased to announce that next year I will be assistant directing both the musical theatre Cabaret and Heathers alongside Dr. Christopher Marlowe Roche as well as directing The Love Song of J. Robert Oppenheimer in the Lab Theatre.

Header photo courtesy of:
Rowan Theatre Department Flickr

Arts
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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: From First Open House, Rowan Felt Like Home For Music Education Major Morgan Blake

Posted on August 7, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Meet Music Education major Morgan Blake from Riverside, NJ (Burlington County). Morgan is excited for new experiences and to be living on campus this coming fall.

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

I’m looking forward to meeting new friends and trying out new clubs! I would love to step away from my comfort zone and join something I never would have thought of!

Morgan pictured in Rowan apparel with her admissions acceptance packet

What is one activity, club, sport, or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue at Rowan?

I’ve participated in Drama Club all four years of high school, and I’m looking forward to auditioning for Rowan’s plays and musicals!

How did you choose your major?

Freshman year I found my passion for music and performing. I wish I had realized this when I was younger, so naturally I decided to become a music education major.

My goal is to have the impact on upcoming generations to be true to who they are and what they love.

How did you get to know campus?

I visited a Rowan open house my junior year.

What music do you like?

I’m a huge Grateful Dead fan! I also love Broadway soundtracks and even have a taste in classical music.

Night owl or morning person?

I am definitely a morning person. I hate waking up late, so I usually go to bed quite early.

Why Rowan?

After my first open house, I realized Rowan’s community made me feel like I’m at home!

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Header image courtesy of:
Pixabay

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Beyond the Classroom: Music Education Major Mike Massaro Directs Two Local High School Bands

Posted on July 29, 2020August 27, 2025by Adeline McDonald

stock image of a trumpet player against a red background

Meet Mike Massaro, a recent Music Education graduate and commuter from Swedesboro, NJ (Gloucester County). He had the great opportunity to take his musical skills outside of the classroom and was able to direct the jazz band and marching band at a local high school. He tells us more about his experience and his passion for music education.

Four years ago, every single person I knew was telling me, “All of the opportunities and resources are there, you just have to choose to use them.” Genuinely, it probably took me until my 7th semester to truly understand what that meant. However, I had been surfing the opportunities of Rowan University since the first day I stepped on the campus.

Music Education is considered a double major at RU — music and education. Because of this, my program involves being a student of both the College of Performing Arts and College of Education (two degrees, two commencement ceremonies, etc).

The most amazing aspect of this has been being able to learn from and collaborate with my student colleagues and the incomparable faculty from both colleges. Being around other people who want to see you learn is what truly can put your college education to the next level.

I’m going to be very real here: more than likely, you will graduate. You will get the paper. At the end of the day, many will earn that paper, but the paper isn’t what matters in the end. It’s the education that went INTO the paper. What can YOU do to make what is very likely to be your most enriching 4+ years of education as educational as possible for YOU?

As an educator, my belief on this is very firm and was inspired by one of our CPA adjunct professors, Mr. Gerry DeLoach. The passion for what it is that you are teaching is what will drive you forward as an educator. Your knowledge and ability in your specific subject or field is what makes you tick. It is so important to keep that flare to learn alive. What you do in your field sets your ability for what you can do as a teacher. How tall will you let that ceiling be?

Mike Massaro playing trumpet with a high school band on the bleachers.

Here’s a short story. I was offered a very rare opportunity to direct a marching band and jazz band at a local school, Woodstown High School, while still completing my undergrad. By my sophomore year I was directing the jazz band, and junior year I was directing the marching band. It was a dream come true come early — teaching real students.

The program showed success very quickly. One of my beliefs when it comes to teaching is that the best way to learn how to teach is to teach. I wanted to do as much as I could for this school’s music program. It seemed like every day I was at Rowan, speaking to my professors about teaching strategies, learning more about music, and sharing and listening to stories; then in the evening, I would go put it all into practice when I taught for real. One of my biggest focuses through my undergrad was on making this program grow, because I knew that the more I was able to learn as a musician and a teacher, the more I would be able to teach these students. I think it is very important as a teacher to learn from your students, as they can teach us far more than we can teach them. I certainly learned so much from them.

Rowan let me learn from these students.

If it wasn’t for the education that I received every day, the conversations and performing experiences that I had, I would have never had anything fresh to offer my students. I’ve had professors come out to Woodstown on their own time to give clinics to the bands and watch me teach. What the faculty has to offer is truly unmatched. Rowan is a growing school that still has a small school feel where it matters the most — in the classroom.

The professors here care for you and want to watch YOU learn. We don’t have massive educational lectures. We have conversations about the real world and how you can make it better. In my teaching, I can directly categorize aspects of individual professors that have molded so many aspects of my musicianship and teaching.

Mike Massaro sitting with a trumpet

Thanks for making it to the bottom of my text blob. I have one more blurb. My trumpet professor, Dr. Bryan Appleby-Wineberg, once said, “You can’t change the whole world at once, but you can start by changing your corner of it.” Dr. AW’s belief about education is one that should resonate with all of us. Educators are at the center of any community. The educators teach the students, the students graduate, the students get jobs, contribute to our workforce, grow the economy — the students become the doctors, entertainers, designers, chefs, researchers who allow our community to grow. It all starts at the educator.

The educators are the students. The students are the educators. Be the best one you can be and take the opportunity. We are profs. Eruditio spes mundi — education, hope of the world.

If I knew my last time riding back from the student center on my skateboard holding my box of hot pulled pork with a piece of cornbread and a cup of red Gatorade would be my last time, I probably would have done it again. Remember that when you get nervous, it’s because you care.

Arts
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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Musical Theatre Major Anthony Finke

Posted on July 8, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Photo of Anthony with his hands stretched out wearing a black t-shirt

Meet Musical Theatre major Anthony Finke. Anthony, from Wood-Ridge, NJ (Bergen County), is excited to live on campus this fall!

Black and white headshot of Anthony.

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

I am looking forward to meeting so many new people and getting to perform in the shows at Rowan!!! I’m also looking forward to getting to work with professionals in the field that I want to go into as a full-time job.

What is one activity, club, sport, or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue at Rowan?

One activity that I did in high school that I’d love to continue in college is definitely the theater department but also [one of the ] choirs.

How did you choose your major?

Collage of Anthony in Rowan apparel.

I chose musical theater because I’ve been doing theater since the fifth grade and it is something I want to do when I get older.

How did you get to know campus?

I knew about the campus because I took an on-campus tour which was so cool to take a look at where I’m going to be living for the next four years!

What music do you like?

I like pop music and a lot of Broadway albums.

Night owl or morning person?

I am definitely a night owl.

Why Rowan?

I chose Rowan because I really like the school and the campus. The theater program is absolutely amazing, and the staff and students are incredibly talented and so easy to work with/talk to!

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Pandemic Profs

Cook with Me: Brioche French Toast

Posted on June 28, 2020August 20, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Printed plate with French toast and bananas

https://youtu.be/63c7iGmEpho

Welcome to our new 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 video is from Bianca Torres, a senior Music Industry major isolating from her home in Long Valley, NJ (Morris County).

Step into Bianca’s kitchen as she whips up a delicious breakfast treat, Brioche French Toast, from home.

Video and music by:
Bianca Torres, music industry major

Header photo courtesy of:
Unsplash

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Senior Reflects: From Military to Music Industry, Travis Keiser Thanks Faculty, Family, Friends

Posted on June 7, 2020August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Travis Keiser, a Music Industry: Technology major from Washington, NJ (Warren County). He transferred and was commuting to Rowan before COVID-19 shut down campus.

Could you please tell us about your favorite moment with a faculty member or a favorite experience in one of your classes?

One of my favorite moments was when my professor Barb Adams told me that I looked exhausted and I joked saying, “It must be from all the exhaustion I’ve been getting.” We both chuckled. She pulled me aside after and asked if I was okay and was genuinely concerned about my lack of sleep due to school. It’s that level of caring that is truly amazing.

What was your favorite or most meaningful personal moment at Rowan?

During Public Speaking, I was giving my first speech and completely froze up in the middle of my speech. Instead of the class quietly giggling, I was greeted with “You’ve got this” and “It’s all good dude!” [There was] a lot of positivity that I was not used to.

What are your career aspirations and how did the people or programs at Rowan help to support you with those aspirations?

I would love to work in post-production for a music/movie studio, as well as become a movie/tv show score composer. The Music Industry department faculty have really given me the expertise and knowledge that I need to pursue these careers.

Do you want to give a thank you shout out to your family, friends, advisors or mentors?

I want to give a huge thank you to Beth and Connie at the Military Service office for all of their help during my time at Rowan. Transitioning from military to college life was difficult, but they made it easy. They seriously are the best and deserve a raise!

Also a HUUUUUUGE thank you to Jeff Hiatt, Barb Adams, Jeff Otto, and Mat Gendreau for all of their mentoring and teaching. And one last shoutout to Matt, Emma, Stella, Mike, my mom, sister and my girlfriend Katie for all of their amazing support and love throughout this journey!

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- Future First Year

Meet Rowan #2024: Theatre Major Looks Forward to Acting and Dancing on Campus

Posted on June 5, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

students dancing in a bright room with windows.

Today we feature Shayla Moon, an incoming theatre major with a concentration in acting and a minor in communication studies, from Pennington, NJ (Mercer County).

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?

“I did dance, and I would love to continue that at Rowan. I’m possibly looking into trying out for the dance team and taking dance classes.”

How and why did you choose your major?

“I chose acting because I have always had a passion for theatre, and I know that that is what I want to do with my life, whether it’s teaching, being onstage or being a part of a company.”

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

“I am looking forward to meeting new friends and experiencing college life in general. I also hope to join clubs and possibly rush!”

Why did you choose Rowan?

“I chose Rowan because I loved the theatre program and the school in general. I came for an open house and just fell in love with the vibe at Rowan!”

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- Future First Year

Meet Rowan #2024: Student Prepares to Thrive in Double Major for Music

Posted on June 1, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Antonietta DiDonato, an incoming Music Education major who plans on adding a Music Performance major to her studies. Antonietta is from New Egypt, NJ (Ocean County), and although neither of her parents went to college, she is “excited to follow in [her] older sister’s footsteps.”

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?

“In high school, I was the drum major of our school’s marching band, in addition to being a member of the South Jersey Regional and All-State bands; I will be continuing my musical career at Rowan.”

How and why did you choose your major?

“I chose my major because I have always looked up to the music educators in my life. I want to give my students a positive outlet and be the educator that makes the difference.”

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

“Next year, I’m looking forward to being involved with new ensembles, learning more music theory, and of course, making new friends.”

Why did you choose Rowan?

“I chose Rowan because I felt like everyone I spoke to was very genuine, helpful, and wanted the best for their students. Rowan University also supported my plans for a double major, which will be advantageous to my future career.”

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Music Education Major Christopher C

Posted on May 29, 2020August 19, 2025by Adeline McDonald

A close-up photo of Christopher playing the trumpet in an orchestral band.

Today, we speak to incoming freshman Christopher C, a Music Education major from Little Egg Harbor, NJ (Ocean County). He will be an on-campus resident and is looking forward to starting his college experience at Rowan University and spending time on campus.

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan?
“I look forward to the social aspect of meeting new people and playing with amazing musicians.”

How or why did you choose your major?
“I chose my major Music Education based on my love of music, helping others, and performing.”

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?)
“I’m not exactly sure, but I’m excited to see what new things Rowan will have to offer!”

Why Rowan?
“I chose Rowan for the outstanding performing arts program. It is an honor to study under Bryan Appleby-Wineberg. I am confident a degree from Rowan will get me prepared for a carer in music education.”

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Photos courtesy of:
Christopher C
Unsplash

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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Juleigh VanDyke Reflects & Looks Forward to Sophomore Year

Posted on May 27, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today’s (FRESH)man Voices features Juliegh VanDyke, a Theatre Arts major from Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County), who commutes from home.

What did you most enjoy your freshman year at Rowan? I think the one thing I enjoyed most about my freshman year was getting to know the people I have become close with and finding my place on campus. I am surround by such a great community of people at Rowan and they have made me feel so welcomed and loved.

Could you share with one happy moment you had with friends, professors, or other members of the Rowan community that made you realize Rowan felt like “home”? I do live only 15 minutes away from campus so I commute. It was hard making friends the first semester I won’t lie about that, but after I found my place on campus I was never home. I was always out hanging with friends, grabbing food, doing homework with people, and kept busy on campus. I even would sometimes stay on campus with my friends when I just didn’t want to be at home! Also commuting will not stop you from finding your home on campus.

What clubs or activities are you involved in on campus? I am a theatre arts major so I help out with the shows a lot and maybe next season I’ll be in one who knows! So I really enjoy doing that, but this semester I rushed for a Sorority and got a bid for Alpha Sigma Tau. Being a part of Greek Life has definitely made my college experience ten times better. I love all my sisters to death and I am in such an amazing community on campus. They are all so loving and supporting, I couldn’t imagine not being apart of Greek Life. It does suck a little because corona had postponed our initiation until the fall, but we all stay very close in touch and are so excited for next semester. We Zoom a lot too.

What advice do you have for future freshmen looking at colleges right now? Looking at colleges is going to be really hard right now due to everything going on in the world. It’s hard to visit campus’s and get a tour, I also know that it matters to you. Don’t stress about where you’re going too hard, I know that it is a very stressful process. I say keep your options open because you never know, you could fall in love with a school you didn’t even give a second thought. I can say this from my stand point of being a commuter, It’s so close to my house I didn’t even want to go here until I gave it a chance. I got into my #1 school and still chose Rowan because I ended up falling in love with it. Don’t be scared if you plan on commuting either, it won’t stop you from doing anything! Just keep up the grades you having going for you now and focus on what you’re looking for. The process is worth it I promise.

What are you most looking forward to next year at Rowan? The biggest thing I am looking forward to next year is definitely seeing all my friends again and having them come back home to Rowan. I miss them so much and online classes kind of suck but the world is going through a tough time right now. I also cannot wait for my classes in the fall! I am taking some cool classes like Singing for the Actor and Fundamentals of Tap. I cannot wait to learn to tap dance. I also am so excited for fall and spring recruitment, I can’t wait to be apart of that. Next semester can’t come any sooner.

Juliegh and her friend.

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan 2024: Future Music Educator Anthony D

Posted on May 27, 2020August 19, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Music Education major and incoming freshman Anthony D poses with his acceptance letter.

Today, we speak to incoming freshman Anthony D, a Music Education major from Jackson, NJ (Ocean County). He will be an on-campus resident and is looking forward to starting his college experience at Rowan University and spending time on campus.

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan?

“Next year, I am looking forward to starting my college career and further studying my major as well as making new friends.”

How or why did you choose your major?

“I chose my major because it was the place I excelled the most and I felt the most compelled to pursue.”

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?)

“I definitely want to be in the Rowan Jazz Band as this was one of my favorite activities in high school, and I can’t wait to go to the college level.”

Why Rowan?

“Rowan is a perfect match for me, it is close and well suited for my major.”

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Header photo courtesy of:
Unsplash

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Music Industry Major Ryan W

Posted on May 26, 2020August 19, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Exterior photo of Wilson Hall on Rowan's campus

Today, we speak to incoming Freshman Ryan W, a Music Industry major from Clifton, NJ (Passaic County). He will be an on-campus resident and is looking forward to starting his college experience at Rowan University and spending time on campus.

What is something you’re looking forward to at Rowan?

“I can’t wait to live on campus and begin the full college experience!”

How or why did you choose your major??

“I am a Music Industry major. I’m passionate about music and plan to become a music producer one day.”

Why did you choose a university relatively close to home?

“Even though Rowan is “in state” it actually feels out-of-state to me. I live 11 miles west of New York City, and Rowan feels completely different from where I grew up. I’m excited to live in a part of New Jersey I have never been to before.”

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?)

“I was always a competitive swimmer so I would like to join some sort of club swimming or at least keep swimming as a form of physical fitness. I’m open to trying anything new that sparks my interest once I start college life.”

Why Rowan?

“I spent my last summer at Rowan in a Music Industry program and was so impressed with the professors and students. I also love how the campus is enclosed and mapped out. Rowan feels like a classic college campus with a close knit community. I can’t wait to start my college journey at Rowan!”

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: From VA to NJ, Musical Theatre Major Benjamin Helbert

Posted on May 25, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature incoming freshman and Musical Theatre major Benjamin Helbert from Williamsburg, Virginia, who will live on campus.

What is one activity, club, sport, or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?

While in high school I participated in our theatre productions as well as being a part of our choir department. I will for sure be pursuing the theatrical aspects since it is my major but I also want to see if I can do some choral activities. I also want to see if I can pick up some tennis while at Rowan.

How or why did you choose your major?

I chose my major because it is something that interests me and something that I am good at. Musical theatre has been a very recent dream of mine but performing has always been something I wanted to partake in.

Benjamin on stage in a play.

What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?

I’m really excited to meet my new friends that I have met through a performing arts Snapchat group and I am thrilled to hopefully experience Hollybash. Benjamin and one of his friends.

Why did you choose a university that is out-of-state or out-of-country for you?

I decided that I wanted to go out of state because I had felt I exhausted all of Virginia. I had experienced basically all of it and wanted to explore new, foreign places to me. I also felt that I would get a better education in theatre outside of Virginia.

Why Rowan?

At first I wasn’t even planning to apply to Rowan because I had not heard of it. All I knew was that my friend was in the musical theatre program. While at a theatre conference I did college auditions and I got contacted by Rowan. After looking into the school I got excited and decided to apply. After going through all of my rejections and acceptances I looked through all of my options and decided that Rowan was the best choice for me and would give me the ability to learn with other artists but also grow as a performer.

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Senior Reflects: Aspiring Music Educator Kayode Gloster

Posted on May 8, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

A wide shot of one of Rowans concert halls.

Meet Kayode G, a graduating senior majoring in vocal music education who lives on campus on Rowan Boulevard. Kayode commuted to Rowan during his last semester, from his home in Pine Hill, NJ (Camden County). Kayode shares his favorite memories as president of the Table Tennis Club and as a performing arts student.

Favorite Memory with a Professor:
My favorite moment with a faculty member was when Professor Art McKenzie, my high school and Rowan men’s choir director, asked me to choreograph/stage one of the men’s choir concerts. He had a brilliant vision and he believed in me to help bring it to life.

We had many creative meetings on the order of the music for the program, lighting & staging ideas, transitions, and choreography. He allowed me to have a voice in the process, and he didn’t have to. He is one of the most selfless, egoless, and talented people I have ever met. I learned so much from this experience. I felt honored to be able to work on this huge project with one of my inspirations.

Favorite Rowan Memory:
My personal favorite moment at Rowan was when I was the President of the Table Tennis Club. My goal for the club was to get the history of the club to 100 members on Proflink. When I was elected president, there were about 40 students in the history, and by the end of my term, the club had over 100 members! That was a very ambitious goal, but I exceeded that goal. This accomplishment stands out for me because this club allowed me to meet and connect with many great students on campus.

My motto for the club was: It’s more about collaboration than it is competition!

What are Your Career Aspirations:
I aspire to be a music educator and work in all areas of performing arts. I love to sing, dance/choreograph, play the piano, write music & poetry, and of course teach and inspire others to get involved in music. I have had many opportunities to teach and showcase my gifts whether it was front stage (singing solo/duets, piano recital) or behind the scenes (choreographing, staging and lighting). I thank all of the teachers who allowed me to share my love of music in a variety of ways.

Shout outs! I would love to say thank you to my family and friends who have been there during this long journey. All of the love, laughter, support, and meaningful moments have truly kept me alive.

Thank you to my table tennis friends. You will never truly understand how much this group has helped me through some of the hardest times at Rowan.

Huge thank you to Mr. McKenzie for all of your love and support! Thanks to Dr. Christopher Thomas and the choir who sang at my mother’s funeral. I will never forget that moment. Lastly, a huge shout out to Professor Karen Brager!!!!!! You truly mean so much to me! You are a huge reason why I made it to graduation. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Much love to you all.

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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Hannah Catherine Kittrell Reflects

Posted on May 6, 2020July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Hannah and friend sit outside on-campus.

Today’s (FRESH)man Voices features Hannah Catherine Kittrell, a theatre arts major from Williamsburg, VA, who lived in Holly Pointe Commons until COVID-19 shut down the campus.

What did you most enjoy your freshman year at Rowan? My first semester was challenging, and I often doubted my talent and strength, but this semester I can already see some growth in my artistry. It makes me really excited for the next three years.

Could you share with one happy moment you had with friends, professors or other members of the Rowan community that made you realize Rowan felt like “home”? My birthday is in November. I was really missing my friends and family. My new friend at Rowan, Mattie Millet, had helped plan a surprise dinner with all of my closest peers at Rowan and my best friend from home. I felt incredibly cared for and supported within this community that was so new to me.

What advice do you have for future freshmen looking at colleges right now? I would tell incoming freshmen to look for schools where both the students and professors’ beliefs can coalesce with your own. I decided on Rowan because I felt really comfortable shadowing. The students spoke like me, we had a shared sense of humor etc. It sounds cliche but it really felt like home.

What are you most looking forward to next year at Rowan? I’m looking forward to rooming with three other talented, empowered women that I’m proud to call my friends, and I’m really excited for Rowan’s upcoming main stage season.

Hannah poses with her friends.

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: PA Resident To Jersey Guy

Posted on May 2, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we feature Connor Shields, an incoming freshman from Holland, Pennsylvania, who will live on campus. Connor will major in theatre, with a concentration in music theatre, and he will add the pre-teaching concentration once the school year starts.

Why Rowan?
Well, it was tied with West Chester for my number one spot, so I decided to shadow both schools to see if that could help me make a decision. Once I got to do my shadow day at Rowan and started experiencing a class, I just told myself that I want to go here! Plus the opportunity to explore both musical theatre and education was a very big plus for Rowan, as there are many schools that, if you’re going for musical theatre, you’re stuck in that program and unable to double major.

Connor shows off his new Rowan hoodie.
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?)
One activity I’m excited to continue doing is theatre, of course! That’s why I’m majoring in it. I do really want to try to learn ASL, so that’s something I’d want to try and learn while at Rowan.

How or why did you choose your major?
The reason why I chose theatre with a concentration in musical theatre and adding ore-teaching is because I love performing and want to see if I can possibly make a career out of it, while also giving me the chance to explore teaching. Teaching is something I’ve always wanted to do, and I thought why not try to go to college for both?

What are a few things you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan
I’m really looking forward to the campus life at Rowan. For the few times I’ve been on campus, I’ve just loved every second of it. I love the vibe and I can’t wait to be a part of it in the fall.

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- Commuter
- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Rowan “Feels Like Home” for Music Therapy Major Maia Morales

Posted on May 1, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Exterior shot of Wilson Hall on Glassboro campus

Today we feature Maia Morales, an incoming freshman from Millville, NJ (Cumberland County). Maia will major in Music Therapy and plans to commute to campus.

How or why did you choose your major? 
I chose my major in music therapy because not only do I love music, but I love helping others. To have the opportunity to do the two things I love all in one is so special to me!

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?
One thing I am looking forward to at Rowan next year is to partake in the many of the music programs that are offered, and hopefully also make some new friends while I am at it too!

Maia proudly displays her #Rowan2024 acceptance package from Rowan University. — Maia proudly displays her #Rowan2024 acceptance letter.

Why Rowan? 
I chose Rowan because not only is it close to where I live, being on campus feels like home and I love the atmosphere of it all. Knowing I do have the opportunity to commute back to home does mean a lot, as it makes life financially better!

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan? 
I definitely would like to partake in Rowan’s Performing Arts program and audition for their plays and musicals! All the way through high school I participated in theater, so I would love to be a part of it hopefully at Rowan!

Why did you choose a university that is close to home? 
Rowan is not only [like I said] a place that feels like home for me, but hearing from my brother who is graduating from Rowan say how much he loved it only made me love it more. Meeting others who attend Rowan and just hearing them talk so highly about the campus and their classes and professors just makes me so excited to start working hard and begin a new chapter in my life!

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- Future First Year

Meet #Rowan2024: Music Industry Major Sam Poku

Posted on May 1, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Stock image of music industry technology.

Today we feature incoming music industry major freshman Sam Poku, who is from Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County) and will live on campus.

Why Rowan?
Choosing Rowan was probably the best decision for me particularly because of how great the overall Rowan environment is, staff, and education of my intended major. But, there was just a unique “feeling” deep down that had sat with me, that it was the right place to go. Knowing that picking Rowan will help me reach my greatest goals in years to come.

A side view of Sam singing into a microphone.

What are a few things you are looking forward to next year at Rowan?
As a freshman at Rowan University I’m really looking forward to meeting a lot of people, networking with different talents in my major, and spreading positive energy/wisdom across campus.

How or why did you choose your major?
I chose the Rowan Music Industry program as my major because of my passion and creativity towards music in general, and wanting to leave a mark in the field of A&R someday on the big business of the music industry as well as Rowan’s Music Industry program.

Why did you choose a university that is close to home?
Choosing a university close to home was very beneficial in a way considering finances, and being near family as well.

What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?
An activity I would love to continue with at Rowan University from high school is the overall art of band and playing in musical ensembles.

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- Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: Helping out at the Family’s Coffee Business

Posted on April 26, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Labels from House Cup Coffee, Sarah Niles' father's business

Author Sarah Niles and her father, Brian — Sarah and her father, Brian

Welcome to Rowan at Home, our new series to give you a glimpse into Rowan University, our campus culture, and the lives of our students, while practicing social distancing to protect society from the spread of coronavirus. Today’s story is from Sarah, a junior isolating from her home in Pennsylvania.

Hi! My name is Sarah Niles.

I am a junior Leadership & Social Innovation major, with a concentration in Access, Success and Equity in Education Innovation, Dance minor, and Adventure Education Leadership Certificate of Undergraduate Study (CUGS).

My hometown was Haddonfield, NJ in Camden County, although I currently live in Havertown, PA in Delaware County.

I am working at my dad’s coffee roasting company, House Cup Coffee Roasters, while on break. He roasts and sells coffee direct to customers in the town we live in (right outside of Philadelphia), and he also serves as a wholesale coffee distributor for restaurants.

He recently just opened a cafe called House Cup Cafe, although it is currently closed due to the pandemic.

I’ve been bagging, grinding and delivering coffee and it’s a lot of fun (plus it smells great!).

He has lots of different kinds of coffee. He sources beans from different countries all over the world wherever coffee is grown.

“Somewhere” is the house blend, which is a secret mix of different beans, and is by far the most popular.

The kinds range from lightest to darkest roasts, like Ethiopia, Columbia, Brazil, Nicaragua, and Sumatra, which coincidentally, are named from where the beans of that roast are from.

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Story and photos by:
Sarah Niles, junior leadership & social innovation major

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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Theatre Major Lydia R

Posted on April 24, 2020August 18, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Drone view of Holly Pointe curved building with trees in the horizon.

Today’s (FRESH)man Voices features Lydia R, a theatre major from Swedesboro, NJ (Gloucester County) who lived in Holly Pointe Commons until COVID-19 shut down the campus.

Lydia has a sunkissed face and windblown hair in this selfie.

What did you most enjoy your freshman year at Rowan?

What I enjoyed most about my freshman year was all of the welcome events in the beginning of the year. With all of the food truck festivals and little events at Holly Pointe, I was able to meet some great people really fast!

Could you share with one happy moment you had with friends, professors or other members of the Rowan community that made you realize Rowan felt like “home”?

One of the happiest moments this year was when I decided to switch my major to theatre. I was nervous, but everyone in the department was super welcoming and really helped me feel like Rowan was my home.

Large group of theatre majors pose together in front of Bunce Hall. — My new home away from home, fellow theatre majors at Rowan.

What advice do you have for future freshmen looking at colleges right now?

Advice I have for future freshmen is: be yourself and stay optimistic. Go in to college with a positive view, it makes it much easier to enjoy the transition and make friends.

What are you most looking forward to next year at Rowan?

Even though my first year was cut short, I’m looking forward to seeing all of my friends again and having even more fun at Rowan next year!

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- Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: Reconnecting with Family & Nature

Posted on April 22, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Flowering teardrop plant Bianca discovered on her nature walks

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 Bianca Torres, a junior isolating from her house in Morris County, NJ. Bianca is a Music Industry major with a minor in Marketing who normally lives in the Whitney Center on Rowan Boulevard.

I’m a very social and extroverted person, so when I realized that I really couldn’t go anywhere or see my friends, I was really upset. However, this whole experience has taught me something important and something that I’ve forgotten about — the importance of family and nature.

I have never been one to go on runs or walks outside. Whenever I wanted to get exercise into my day, I would just go to the gym. Now that the gyms are temporarily closed, I don’t have that option anymore. I’ll admit, I started to panic at first because I didn’t know what I would do to pass my time. I’m not a homebody either, so I really did not want to be stuck in my house for so long.

So, my immediate thought was that I would start to go outside more often. I’m very glad I made that decision because it has completely changed my perspective.

Luckily, I live in a pretty rural area of NJ so there are a lot of open spaces, trails and parks to go to. I make it a point to go outside at least once a day, weather permitting, and go for a walk or run. Now that we have some nice weather, the flowers and trees are starting to bloom and it makes everything so pretty!

Bianca's father looking into a river on the side of the trail. He is wearing jeans, a tan jacket and a white snapback hat. — My dad looking to the river on the trail we walk on.

These walks have also helped me reconnect with my family. Both of my parents work long days and usually, I would be working too. We were all never on the same schedule or had much time to spend a lot of quality time together. However, my whole family is in the house now and we only have each other. Now my family will come on these walks with me too!

Being in isolation has made me appreciate being lucky enough to be with my family during these crazy times. Being in nature has made me appreciate the environment and how good it feels to be outside.

This whole experience has really made me come back to the idea that the world keeps turning even though our lives change.

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Story and photography by:
Bianca Torres, junior music industry major

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- Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: Being Productive When Working from Home

Posted on April 13, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Welcome to our new series to give you a glimpse into Rowan University, our campus culture, and the lives of our students, while practicing social distancing to protect society from the spread of coronavirus. Today’s story is from Don DeWitt, a senior isolating from his house in Gloucester County, NJ. Don, a Music Industry major, lives off campus.

With the official stay-at-home order from Governor Murphy, all Rowan students are adjusting to online class instruction and the unique challenges that come with it. Additionally, some students who have never worked from home before are continuing jobs and internships at home.

Suddenly working from home is the new standard for many Rowan students and staff alike, and some members of the Rowan community may be quickly realizing the challenges of working entirely from home. I am one of those students who finds myself not only taking all my courses online, but also working two jobs remotely. It is also likely for many Rowan students and staff that their family members are either working or taking classes online from home as well.

Because of this unprecedented time, I made the following guide of simple tips and advice for staying productive, focused and sane when transitioning to working from home. Please be aware that these tips come from my own experience working from home with my family in the past few weeks and may not work for everyone; however, if you are having difficulty taking care of business at home, then this advice is worth a shot!

Get dressed. Yes, I mean what we have all been fearing the most after this is all over with: Put on pants! If you have trouble focusing and working as efficiently as you would in the classroom or office, try putting on some jeans and a T-shirt in the morning (or whatever your normal, everyday, going out in public outfit is). This could put you in a more awake, alert, ready-to-get-things-done mood.
Keep a schedule. Try to make a schedule that keeps you on track to take care of your responsibilities and meet the goals you had before the lockdown as closely as possible. I get up at 8 a.m. on weekdays to start working for my remote IT job at 8. I don’t prefer eating breakfast as soon as I wake up, so a benefit of working from home is having access to my kitchen around 10 when my stomach realizes I am actually hungry! The flexibility of working from home allows us to set times to take care of specific responsibilities while also doing things on our own time. After I stop working at noon I work through my list of responsibilities and make sure I have time to do everything that needs to be done during the day. It is also important to go sleep around the same time every night so your body gets used to waking up at the same time in the morning.
Make lists. Lists can be used to organize and prioritize your goals, assignments and projects, while making it easy to keep track of what you have already completed and what still needs to be done. Lists are flexible and can be as specific or general as you want. Every few days I make a list of what assignments, projects and chores I have for the days ahead. I combine my responsibilities for work, school and home all on the same list because it helps me see what is more important to work on and where I can fit each responsibility into my schedule. Before the lockdown, my lists were more separate and only pertained to specific topics like work or school, but my schedule has become more fluid except for planned Zoom and WebEx meetings. I use old-fashioned pen-and-paper, but you could use an app to keep track of your lists. It is all about what best helps keep track of the ever-growing pile of responsibilities during this chaotic time in our lives.

A cement walkway on Rowan's campus with lamp posts, green grass, and trees during sunset. — Going for a walk while practicing social distancing is a safe way to take a break from the computer screen.

Take breaks. With almost all work being done on a computer, it is important to step away from the screen once in a while. If you find yourself clicking through tabs in circles (the modern-day equivalent to reading the same paragraph in a book three times), it may be time for a quick 5 to 15 minute break. During this short break you can go on a walk (social distance!), eat a snack or have a conversation or phone call with friends or family (again, social distance!). You will come back to the computer screen with a refreshed mind, ready to get things done.
Have fun! Working at home can be just as stressful as working in a classroom or office but now we have the freedom to do the things we like to do while we work without bothering others, like listening to music. Put on the radio or make a playlist of your favorite uplifting tunes. If you are looking for a motivating work song I recommend Taking Care of Business by Bachmann Turner Overdrive. Additionally you can make your video conferences just a bit more fun using a cool program called ChromaCam. ChromaCam takes your video during web calls and replaces the background with any image you want. You can also use this to hide a messy room with a faux office to appear more professional!

Hopefully you will find some of the ideas in this article useful and can adapt them to your routine. If you have any useful ideas for being productive while working at home please share them in a comment. We will get through the lockdown by coming together while in isolation.

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Story by:
Don DeWitt, music industry senior

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- Hands-On Learning

Three Things I Love About My Major

Posted on April 4, 2020August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Bianca stands in front of a Music Industry bulletin board.

Hi! My name is Bianca Torres. I’m from Morris County, NJ (North Jersey). I am a junior Music Industry major with a minor in Marketing here at Rowan University and I love my major!

Bianca sits at a desk, arms folded, in front of a laptop and a keyboard. Back in high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do in the future or where I wanted to go for school. I knew that I wanted to go in the direction of music because I love it so much but I didn’t know what I could do with that. Then through my choir class, I met a friend who was a senior in high school at the time who had told me they were going to school for Music Business. Once she told me more about it, I instantly knew that music industry is where I needed to be.

After looking at a couple options, I came to the conclusion that Rowan definitely had the best program for the affordable price I was looking for. When I found out that I had gotten into the Music Industry program, I was extremely excited! Now that I’m a junior in the major, I can definitely say that I have no regrets about the program and I’ve had so many opportunities as well.

The faculty and students are amazing!

The professors are very down-to earth and are willing to help with anything you might need. They are also extremely highly regarded in their careers and have so many connections into the industry. They’re honest and very accepting of all the different areas and backgrounds of the music industry! The program offers students the option between two concentrations; the business side of the music industry, the tech side, or there is even the option of both! The professors, no matter what “side” they are on, are very knowledgeable of all aspects of the Music Industry and it clearly shows.

I’ve also made so many connections and close friends through this program. We can all bond over the love of music and the strengths we all have in different areas of music. Everyone is extremely talented. I’m so happy that I’ve found a community within my major.

2. The hands-on experiences.

Another great thing about the program is all of the hands-on experiences they offer to their students. Within our department, we have a student-run record label called Rowan Music Group (RMG). Through that label, we are able to sign, assist, and create Rowan student music and help them further their artistic careers.

Within our department, we also have our own studios in which students can create, produce, and mix their songs, whether it be for a class or project.

A group of approximately 20 Rowan students grouped together inside a concert venue. — My class and I at the Trocadero in Philadelphia

Through our Touring and Concert Promotion class, we find talented artists, book them, and then host our very own show. Most recently, my class has hosted one of the last shows at the legendary Trocadero Theatre in Philadelphia.

Through these experiences, there are so many ways to network and connect to people in the industry that could be of great use to students in the future.

The program has also been able to send students and student-artists SXSW in Austin, TX.

3. They offer so many opportunities for Internships and jobs!

Lastly, one of the best things about my major is all of the internship and job opportunities the department notifies us about. Looking for an internship/job is already a hard and stressful task that many college students struggle with. I can proudly say because of the Rowan Music Industry program, I have already completed one internship and am currently working at another internship right now at the Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore, PA! Whether it be for smaller labels, venues, or paid-sound engineering opportunities in the Philadelphia area or even bigger record labels and venues, all the way from New York to Nashville, TN, the Music Industry program will always help out and let their students know. This is a great help for any students looking for internships or paid-jobs once their time at Rowan comes to a close.

The Rowan Music Industry program has made me a more well-rounded and hardworking individual. I’ve met so many amazing, talented, and inspiring people through this program that have helped me through tough-times and have supported me through good times. In my opinion, music is a universal language that can bring different people from different cultures and backgrounds together through one shared experience.

For me to have the opportunity to be apart of that experience through Rowan’s program, is life changing!

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Written Story by: Bianca Torres, junior music industry major
Photography by: Nicole Cier and Jen Green

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- Offbeat Rowan

Pre-Quarantine 20 Questions with Faith Diccion [VIDEO]

Posted on April 4, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Faith poses for a photo outside on a spring day.

https://youtu.be/1IaI7GBb_4c

Welcome to Rowan at Home, our new 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 features Faith Diccion, a sophomore isolating in her house in Atlantic County, NJ. A double major in Theatre and Radio/TV/Film Faith shares what it’s really like to be a Rowan Prof while answering 20 questions strolling on Rowan Boulevard. Rowan Blog captured this footage pre-quarantine.

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Video by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major

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- Arts

Music Education Grad Shares His Insight & Advice

Posted on April 4, 2020October 1, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Sean Clancy music teacher

Welcome to Rowan at Home, our new 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 features alumnus Sean Clancy, and was captured by senior Iridian Gonzalez, journalism, before quarantine.

Meet Sean Clancy, a 2014 graduate from the College of Performing Arts. Sean earned his bachelor’s in music education and a minor in dance studies. He teaches general music to elementary students, while singing professionally around the country as well. Today he will share with us his journey in becoming a music teacher and what he learned throughout the process.

How did you know you wanted to pursue a career in music and education?

“In high school I did New Jersey All-State and Regional chorus, it was just really inspiring. I was inspired by the people who conducted it and I always knew I wanted to get into education I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I noticed how it [music] affects your grade. It gives you a sense of responsibility and time management. And you’re always working in a team, it’s not a one-person thing, it’s about everyone succeeding.”

How did you like Rowan’s music and education departments?

“It was amazing, they have one of the best education departments in the country. I feel like we got so much experience with kids. From my freshman year we were working with kids and watching teachers. That’s what I like, the moment you are here you’re in the game.”

Sean said he liked how his first courses for music education all started at 8 a.m. because he said that if you can’t handle waking up that early to go to class then how are you going to wake up that early to teach.

“I have to be at work at 7:30, which means I’m up at 6. So, if you can’t handle getting to class by 8 you can’t handle being a teacher.” Sean Clancy music teacher

What does a typical day at work look for you?

“Now with my elementary job my day starts at 10 and ends at 3. I have a one in a half hour lunch break and that’s it. I have duty at 8:20 and I am on duty until 8:50. Then from 8:50 to 10 I either have a meeting with my team or have prep time. Right now, we are in the spring concert mode, so we are learning the spring concert music and I love doing music from different languages, because that’s what I learned here [Rowan]. My third graders are doing a song in Japanese and my second graders are doing Nigerian. I find that kids are connecting. They might not like all the songs, but even if they like one part of one song then they will be in it for that.”

Any advice for students wanting to major in music education?

“They always tell you to take the job you get, if you get it just be grateful, Sean Clancy music teacher but they don’t tell you get the job your supposed to be in. My first job I got it at the wrong place. I left it mid-year; I didn’t like it. It was my first interview after college, and I got the job. I was like ‘dream job amazing’ but I had no support and I was doing too much, I was 22 teaching high school. I took the job, but that job wasn’t right for me, but of course I don’t regret it because I learned a lot and learned about myself. Learned how to get right up when you hit rock bottom. A year later I started working a part-time job in Belmawr, my hometown, trying to revive their chorus program and through that process I learned that I am a good teacher and that I could make an impact in kids and that I was just in the wrong place. Since then I’ve been a full-time teacher.”

Sean said that when you’re a musician your teachers become like your parents; they guide you through on how to make your instrument the best it can be.

“There’s such a special connection.”

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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major

Photos courtesy of:
Sean Clancy/Jamie Jung Photography

University Housing

Jalen Shares 3 Things He Likes about Living in Mimosa Hall

Posted on March 16, 2020March 20, 2020by Adeline McDonald

students at mimosa lounge

Meet Jalen Rushton, a freshman Music Industry major from the College of Performing Arts. Jalen grew up in Columbus, Ohio but moved to Middletown, Delaware (New Castle County). He may be far from home, but Mimosa Hall has made his experience at Rowan University much more comforting. Today, he will share with us his three favorite things about living in Mimosa Hall.

1. The Community in Mimosa

“I love how everyone is really accepting of each other, it’s like a small community. I’ve gotten used to the people here.”

Jalen has made many friends throughout his freshman year while staying at Mimosa. He mentioned that everyone on his floor knows each other and that they all help each other when the help is needed.

2. The Lounge Area

The lounge area in Mimosa has become one of Jalen’s favorite spots to hang around with his friends.

“Sometimes I do homework, sometimes we play ping pong and sometimes I play the broken piano.”

3. The Location

“Mimosa is in the middle of campus, so if you don’t want to be at Mimosa you can go to the Rec Center or the Student Center or the Campbell Library, they are all literally next to us. The courts, the fields are right there too, I think Mimosa has the best location.”

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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major
Rachel Rumsby, freshman public relations major

Arts
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- Future First Year

It’s OK to be Scared

Posted on March 6, 2020March 13, 2020by Adeline McDonald

cassidy stands in front of a brick wall.

Moving away from home is scary. I’m not going to sit here and lie Cassidy posing for a portrait on train tracks and say that the transition from high school to college was easy for me. I’m sure other people had smooth transitions and would love to share their stories, but for the people who are scared to move away, I want to let you know that you’re not alone.

The longest I had been away from my parents before moving to college was on a school trip to Europe that was a week long, and by the end of the week, I called my parents crying.

Believe it or not, I was excited to move into college. Buying all the things I needed for my dorm was exciting, but there was always a voice in the back of my mind that said, “What if I’m making a mistake?” My boyfriend who lived close to me was commuting, so why was I going to live on campus? I pushed those thoughts out of my head and told myself I wanted the “full college experience.”

Cassidy holding a sunflower umbrella by red foliage. I moved in a day before move-in day because I had a late orientation date. I had talked to my roommate before I moved in and we decided to live together because we were both Theatre majors. My family moved me in, we had dinner, and then they left. Then I was alone in a place I was not familiar with. I had no idea where anything was and I felt alone. I decided to reach out to my friends from home and we hung out all night. I felt a little more comfortable. The next night, my roommate Faith invited me to hang out with some people from the department. Little did I know that I would make a ton of friends that would help me through this rough transition.

Cassidy and her sister on her first move in day. During my first week of classes, I met professors who made sure I was comfortable and taking care of myself. I quickly learned that everyone cared about me and I wasn’t alone. I joined clubs, performed in shows and made friends along the way who have changed my life for the better.

If you are scared or anxious about moving away from home, I want to let you know that it’s OK. Once you get to college, you will quickly realize that everyone here wants to help you and they want to see you succeed. So don’t be afraid, call your parents every day, and don’t forget that if you’re having a really tough time, just reach out.

Story by:
Cassidy Anderson, sophomore public relations and theatre major

Photos by:
Scott Anderson

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Offbeat Rowan

PROF Pets: Zazu

Posted on January 31, 2020January 22, 2020by Adeline McDonald

Rowan Owl statue, near where Ben and Zazu's photos were taken

Piano Performance major Ben holds Zazu, a golden retriever puppy, in his lap outside Meet Zazu!

Name: Zazu

Breed: Golden Retriever

Age: 1 year old

Likes: rolling in dirt and mud, being pet and cuddled, playing with other pups, and taking naps!

Dislikes: when people fly by on skateboards — too loud!

Piano Performance major Ben holds Zazu, a golden retriever puppy, in his lap outside “Zazu is a Seeing Eye puppy, and I’m in the Seeing Eye organization of Gloucester County. I’m taking him out for a walk right now while my friend is in class, but I’ve raised a Seeing Eye puppy before on my own, and it was an awesome experience. I definitely recommend getting involved!” – Ben Graham, Piano Performance major from Mullica Hill, NJ (Gloucester County).

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Story and photography by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major

Arts
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- Student Activities

4333 Collective Holiday Show [VIDEO]

Posted on January 27, 2020July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

https://youtu.be/78DoBDkuddc

Jayce Williams, a senior Music Industry major from 4333, a student-run music collective, tells us about his fundraising holiday show featuring Tigers Jaw, Oso Oso, Twentythreenineteen, Sweetpill and Typopro. The show raised more than 400 cans of food for the Glassboro Food Bank.

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

Alumni
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Higher Education Master’s Program Sounds Like Sweet Success For Rowan Music Alum Ben W

Posted on January 22, 2020October 1, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Future college students will be fortunate to have Ben W as their academic advisor.

The Gloucester County native and aspiring academic counselor, who will complete his master’s degree in the College of Education’s Higher Education track this spring, didn’t initially set his sights on the program until his own interaction with an advisor.

“He’s been nothing but a huge help during the undergraduate process,” Ben says. “I want to give back because of my experiences in the undergraduate setting.”

Ben W on the first floor of James Hall Ben graduated magna cum laude from Rowan’s highly competitive Music program after what he revealed was a difficult transition to college life as a student with disabilities. He’s now empowered to “inspire students with disabilities to stay in college, so they can break obstacles to get where they need to go in the college setting because I’ve broken every obstacle up until this point,” Ben explains.

Ben says he wouldn’t be in college without a love of music, for which he’s a triple threat in voice, guitar and piano. He had just graduated from high school to pursue music at Rowan when the overwhelm set in.

“I overcame it that first semester, and my entire undergraduate years I got help when I needed it and asked for assistance for the resources I need to obtain, like the Disability Resources office [also called the Academic Success Center] or academic coaching or my professors,” Ben says. “I always say to have connections with your professors. I feel like this transition showed me that it’s a lot different.”

After his first semester, Ben, working with the Academic Success Center, met regularly with his academic coach, who he says honed his writing, editing and organizational skills.

He also registered with the Testing Center, which he says helped him with both test-taking and studying. The Testing Center was “welcoming and allowed me to do my tests and quizzes in a quieter space,” Ben adds.

Ben W standing on the third floor of James Hall Ben’s academic career flourished after that first semester. He joined the Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society and Sigma Alpha Lambda, a national leadership honor society. He presented at Rowan’s College Prep Transition Conference, which offers workshops and tools to support students with disabilities and their families as they head toward college life.

His own advising experience, along with the guidance he received through the Academic Success Center, pivoted Ben’s career path from music to counseling. He’s applying his graduate coursework to an internship this year with the Academic Success Center, working with students who may be struggling as he once was — which speaks to why he’s so passionate about his future career:

“I really was inspired by how much I have learned in the college setting, the resources I used to succeed in the college environment,” Ben says. He hopes to “help students advocate for themselves, making sure they do what they need to do to succeed. It’s not easy, but they’ve got to take one day at a time to break those obstacles.

“I’d like to help those students to keep going and never give up. Every student, no matter their differences are.”

Wide shot of Ben W on the first floor of James Hall

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First Generation
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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Music Industry Student’s Journey from Delaware to New Jersey

Posted on January 7, 2020August 8, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Freshman Music Industry major Devin Saienni sits on a bench on campus

“If you’re into music, this school is awesome!” says Devin S, a freshman Music Industry major with a concentration in Music Technology from Wilmington, Delaware (New Castle County). He currently lives in Mimosa Hall and is a first-generation college student.

Freshman Music Industry major Devin S sits on a bench on campus Devin says he came to Rowan specifically for the music program, and he heavily credits his humble experiences here so far to his professors.

When asked about his shift from living in Delaware to New Jersey, he said the people here make him feel right at home. He also wasn’t nervous at all coming into college because he knew a few people already.

His best advice to future students is to “tour your schools” and “really put your full focus on really finding out what school fits you.”

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Story and photography by:
Enzo Ronchi, senior public relations major

Uncategorized

4 Juniors Who Are Reppin’ North Jersey

Posted on January 4, 2020August 8, 2025by Adeline McDonald

We spoke with juniors Shirley C.L, Jackie C, Julia M and Liz K about making the change from living in North to South Jersey. Their answers varied slightly except for one collective opinion: it’s different here in Gloucester County!

Shirley C.L poses wearing a denim jacket while smiling on a yellow bench. — “I’ve never seen a lot of farmland until I came here. North Jersey and South Jersey are really, really different. I didn’t really expect to be 20 minutes away from farm lands and a lot of vineyards. And then the accents, too.” – Shirley C.L, junior, first-generation college student and dual major in Anthropology / Modern Language & Linguistics from Newark, NJ (Essex County)

Jackie C smiles standing in front of the prof statue. — “It’s very spread out. I don’t know a lot about South Jersey, but it’s a little more quiet out here. I don’t go home that much just because it’s so hard to focus on school work when I’m home and it’s just kind of a separation of work.” – Jackie C, junior Civil Engineering major from Boonton, NJ (Morris County)

Julia smiles while wearing black in front of some green trees. — I didn’t think there would be this much emptiness, it’s so spread out here unlike North Jersey. [At home] we’re literally like 20 minutes from New York City. Even though Philly’s so close, the vibe here is just so different. I feel like it’s so important to get a sense of change, that’s when you can figure out what’s good for you and maybe what doesn’t work for you. I think it’s nice to get away from home. Obviously it works for some people and doesn’t work for others, but it’s important to be able to adapt to change. – Julia M, junior Theatre & Dance major from Montville, NJ (Morris County)

Liz K poses on a cement bench in front of some green trees. — “I think the culture of South Jersey is really cool and I think that’s because Philly is right there. It is so much fun to be able to explore the city life there and also come back. It feels like a completely separate state. I feel like they have their own culture down here. It’s got a little bit of a southern twist to it [with] the beach towns down here and the Philly culture on the side.” – Liz Kenla, junior Studio Art major from Verona, NJ (Essex County)

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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major

Photos by:

Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Quintin Stinney, sophomore Radio/TV/Film major

#PROFspective
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- Arts

#PROFspective: Music Industry Major Jeff McConnell

Posted on December 27, 2019January 10, 2020by Adeline McDonald

Music Industry major Jeff McConnell stands outside Wilson Hall

Name: Jeff McConnell

Major: Music Industry

Year: Senior

Hometown and County: Marmora, NJ (Cape May County)

Commuter: Off-campus

Social clubs you are a part of: E-board member for Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship

Do you work on campus? Director of Live Events for the Student University Programmers (SUP) and Building Manager at Rowan Rec Center

Share an “aha!” moment you’ve had within your major that made you feel passionate about your intended field. The first class I took for my major was Business of Music 1, and as soon as the class started and we got into the course material I knew I had made the right choice.

We started learning about the “ins and outs” of the music industry, and all of my professors experiences while working in the music industry with some of the biggest names in music. Once this class started in addition to the other classes I was taking once I transferred into this major, nothing felt like homework anymore and I just wanted to know more about everything we were learning. Ever since then, I have loved every class I have taken and each one has made me more excited to get a job and start doing everything my professors have been telling me about the past three years.

Describe an on-campus experience (academic or non-academic) in which you felt that your future goals are supported. I think getting my job as the Director of Live Events for the Student University Programmers really helped support my goals. I’ve had the opportunity to plan and execute events, concerts, comedy events and committee meetings.

Jeff McConnell (left) discussing future SUP plans with his coworkers.

In addition to that, I’ve been able to work with so many graduate students and professional staff members who have helped me so much on my path with encouragement and insight. Lastly, this position has afforded me the opportunity to work with outside companies for my events and I have made so many good on-campus and off-campus connections that I will definitely keep up, even after graduation.

Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you? Honestly, as cliché as it may sound, I think I have always felt welcome and as if Rowan was a home for me. With being involved in so many clubs in my time here, as well as working many different jobs on campus, I feel like I have always had a space to feel at home and a group of people that I know Music Industry major Jeff McConnell stands in front of a hallway display are always going to be there for me. I think one club that has really done this for me above any other has been Chi Alpha. I have been a part of Chi Alpha for the past four years and it has given me so many lifelong friends and amazing memories and experiences. I will be forever grateful for the people that are in my life now that I met through my undergraduate time in Chi Alpha.

And lastly, why Rowan? My freshman orientation leaders were the ones who told me that college was going to be what you make of it: “You will get out what you put in,” they told me. Since then, I took that and ran with it, working in three different offices in my undergraduate time, as well as being a part of about 10 clubs. Rowan had so much to offer and I really think I took advantage of it.

As a senior headed into my last semester, I look back so fondly on my time at Rowan and am so grateful for a school that has so much to offer. I have loved my time here and made so many friendships with students and professional staff members and it makes me sad to think about leaving. But I am so grateful for everything I have learned and truly feel as though Rowan has prepared me well to be successful in whatever I decide to pursue post graduation.

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

Arts

Rowan Sessions – Baby, It’s Cold Outside feat. Gabe Georges, Rocco Fiorentino, Rachel Martin [VIDEO]

Posted on December 23, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

rowan students making music in the studio

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nazPxFHlyDM

Music Industry major and guitarist Gabe Georges, brings vocalist Rachel Martin and pianist Rocco Fiorentino into Rowan’s studio to record a cover of Baby, It’s Cold Outside for the holiday season.

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Video by:
Noel Waldron, senior public relations major
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major

Arts
...
- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Mattie Ballard-Millet

Posted on December 17, 2019July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Mattie and her friend chatting outside on a grassy lawn.

Name: Mattie Ballard-Millet
Year: Freshman
Major: Theatre, Musical Theatre Concentration within the College of Performing Arts
Hometown: Biloxi, Mississippi
Where do you live? On-campus, Holly Pointe Commons

What first surprised you about Rowan?
“I think how nice everyone is, because they say that northerners aren’t always the nicest. It’s a stereotype, but that’s not true. Everyone, especially within the Theatre and Dance Department, has been really sweet and encouraging.”

How is New Jersey different from Mississippi?
“Everybody here is very into what they are doing. It’s a very dedicated space for theatre. In high school, there are so many people that do theatre who are just doing it for the credit, and now it’s so nice to be surrounded by people who are just as passionate about theatre as I am. Students care so much.

“I guess there’s an energy that’s different, where everyone’s got something to do.
Whereas in the south, everyone’s kind of like content with living in their hometown forever and staying put. I feel like up north there’s kind of a ‘go-getter attitude,’ where everyone’s like ‘Let me go make a career for myself’ or ‘Let me shape my own path.’ Yeah, it is more fast-paced, and it’s very refreshing.

“Also, my teachers are more chill and laid back. There is a respect thing — where it could just be like a college thing or a north vs. south kind of thing. But it’s like the teachers understand that we’re people, and it’s not like ‘I’m your elder, so you have to respect me.’ Oh, and people don’t say ‘yes, m’am’ or ‘yes, sir.’ It’s such a weird feeling because I’m so used to saying those things.

“In the south, there’s an expectation for younger generations to speak that way to older generations. But here, there’s just a general respect for everyone. And Rowan is very progressive, so it made me super happy to see that people were using pronouns to introduce themselves and address each other. It just felt new and right.”

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Story and photography by:
Faith Lynn Diccion, sophomore theatre & radio/TV/film double major

Hands-On Learning

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

Posted on November 1, 2019August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

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 composition Ryan 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 Engineering been 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

Family
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- Student Wellness
- University College

Success For All: Support Systems at Rowan and Where to Find Them

Posted on September 20, 2019April 11, 2025by Adeline McDonald

If your student has a documented disability, sending them to college without an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may feel downright scary.

Lisa Wilner, parent of a College of Education graduate student in the Higher Education program, wants to flip the script.

“[Parents] need to understand that universities are not abandoning the IEP resources that your child had,” she said. “Your job is to teach your child to use the resources that exist and to find the proper university for your major that has the resources. Rowan has them.”

Lisa is a featured speaker for the Academic Success Center’s College Prep Transition Conference and a parent network member with Rowan’s Autism PATH program, which aims to strengthen employment outcomes and networking opportunities for neurodiverse students and alumni.

Lisa’s tips, gleaned from five years at Rowan with her son, Ben — who also earned his undergraduate degree in Music from the College of Performing Arts — offer a parent’s take into the university’s academic and wellness resources.

“If you have a student with a disability, you should register them with the Academic Success Center, even if you don’t think they’ll need it. If they think they can get extra test-taking time at the Testing Center, and they didn’t register and they ask the professor, they’re still going to have to take that test. It’s not like they can change it instantly. To register with the Academic Success Center, they need their senior year or [most recent] documentation of disability.”
“I highly recommend the College Compass [transition to college] program. Students come in early, before the rest of freshmen students, and they get familiar with the school. They get comfortable, before everything starts to happen. And whether your student is on the [autism] spectrum, has ADD, has emotional issues, no matter what challenges, it gives them a comfort zone within the school.”
“Register with Academic Success Center to work with an academic coach. I look at it as an insurance policy. If they never use it, that’s wonderful. But if they need it and you didn’t register them, you’re going to have issues because you can’t go backwards.”
“This is for all students — drop-in and math tutoring and writing labs, all students have [access to] those. We just have to teach our children to utilize the services.”
“[Students] have to build relationship with professors. Meet your professors. They have to know who you are by name. They have to go to their office hours. Get their email. When your student gets their accommodation letter, give it to the professor on day one, trust your student to do that.”
“Your student needs to utilize Blackboard and check their email. I get more calls from parents saying my son’s crashing because he never checked his email. Some students are really good about that, others aren’t. A lot of professors [also] communicate through smartphones.”
“The first two weeks of the semester and right before finals, your student will be freaking out. They will be a stress mess. So whatever their stress relief is, tell them to do it … it could be the gym or to just breathe. Rowan has something that is very unique — they have one counselor [at the Wellness Center] who specializes with working with students on the [autism] spectrum, ADD and such.”

Lisa Ann Wilner with son Ben Wilner at home — Lisa Ann Wilner with son Ben (left) at home.

Lisa’s final tips: “Your student knows more than you think they know. You just have to get them to advocate for themselves. At this point, we’re letting the student go. We’re their emotional support and their encouragement. Rowan is their scholastic support.”

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VISIT CAMPUS

Family

Family Fun While Visiting Your Rowan Student

Posted on September 15, 2019September 13, 2019by Adeline McDonald

Blonde female student takes a selfie at a sunflower field near Rowan University

Dr. Heidi L. Newell, parent of a Rowan sophomore, shares her insight on how to make fun family memories while visiting your Rowan University student on campus.

You moved them in, now what do you do for a little fun and bonding time? These are some on-campus or local activities my family has tried that are worthwhile. Note: some of these events require an admission fee or even a reservation.

Take a tour of the Hollybush mansion on campus. It was the site of the historic 1967 summit meeting between President Lyndon B. Johnson and Soviet Premier Alexei Kosygin, and it was also the home for Rowan University presidents until about 20 years ago.

Line of people wait to enter the historic brick Hollybush Mansion at Rowan University

Feeling sporty? Take a Rec Center class with your student. This summer I took a spin class with my daughter and survived! If you’d like to get into some school spirit, attend an athletics event where you might run into our mascot, Whoo RU!

Attend a College of Performing Arts event. I recommend the annual Jazz Festival Concert. There are many amazing student and faculty productions such as theatre, art shows and concerts. 7 women wearing purple dresses on stage raise their arms at a production held at Rowan University

Sit back and relax in our own Edelman Planetarium and learn about what your student sees in the sky above campus.

a row of student sit at the Rowan University planetarium, looking up at a presentation

Want to get your hands dirty and find out what roamed the campus long before your student did? Try the Edelman Fossil Park and bring home your very own fossil.

5 people work independently to dig in the mud at the Rowan University Fossil Park

Rowan has a terrific program called Rowan After Hours (RAH) that offers an alternative to off-campus parties. My daughter and I attended a “Stranger Things” event with many cool activities inspired by one of our favorite shows.

Just off campus is the Heritage Glass Museum where you can learn more about the origin of the Glassboro name.

Glassboro is our second home and we’ve attended many ‘boro events. Some of our favorites happen right off campus such as the annual tree lighting or live free music nights with food trucks on the green.

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Offbeat Rowan

PROF Pets: Billie

Posted on September 7, 2019June 11, 2021by Adeline McDonald

Billie smiling outside in her backyard Meet Billie!

Name: Billie (after Billie Holiday)

Breed: Rescue (unknown)

Age: 1 year old

Owner: Jayce Williams, senior Music Industry major from Newton, NJ (Sussex County)

Likes: walks, toys and cheese

Dislikes: loud noises

“I love walking her on campus! It’s a great way to get her to socialize with people and sometimes other dogs.” — Jayce

Billie and her owner Jayce Williams

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VISIT CAMPUS

Story and photography by:
Chad Wittmann, senior journalism major

Arts
...
- Hands-On Learning

Beyond the Classroom: Jesse Panico, an Act for Theatre Arts

Posted on August 25, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Rowan Music Performance major Jesse Panico next to the Henry Rowan statue

Meet Jesse Panico, a junior Music Performance major with a specialization in Voice from Magnolia, NJ (Camden County). He is also the senior student technician for Rowan’s Theatre Arts Management.

Rowan offers many flexible job opportunities for its students. After meeting his (now) supervisors at Theatre Arts Management through other networking, Jesse asked them for a job, filled out some paperwork “and since then it’s been wonderful!” Jesse said.

Jesse helps runs events in both Pfleeger Concert Hall and Boyd Recital Hall.

“It greatly benefits me working there because I’m always there and the bookings are often from my own peers. Being able to work a recital (in Boyd Hall) and the person working it is someone you know and trust really takes the pressure off of the person performing,” he said. The work he does in Pfleeger Hall is little bit of everything, from ushering to lighting.

His behind-the-scenes knowledge with Theatre Arts has helped him with his own student work as well.

Rowan Music Performance major Jesse Panico in the Rowan Opera

“Knowing everything off-hand helps me plan as a student. When I was planning my Junior Recital, I knew how far to plan in advance, what works and what doesn’t,” Jesse said.

“Rowan best prepared me by giving me to opportunity work with the technical side of what I want to do. I love to perform. It is very near and dear to my heart. It gives me insight on how to do certain things on stage — such as, many people think to stand right in the middle of the spotlight. But you actually should stand in front of the spotlight so you don’t have the lower half of your body cut off,” he said.

Jesse noted that Theatre Arts Management tries to emphasize working all parts of the theatre so you get a better understanding of what goes into everything.

“I have developed a lot of people skills from starting as a house manager, which deals with the public saying ‘No ma’am, you can’t bring food in.’ A lot of the training was learning as I go. The high-stress environment helped me to learn quickly. I’ve learned everything from lights and rigging to building the sets.

“I feel at home in Pfleeger Concert Hall,” Jesse said.

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VISIT CAMPUS

Story and photography by:
Justin Borelli, senior advertising major

Arts
...
- Future First Year

Pre-College Institute Holds Elements of Dance Finale [VIDEO]

Posted on August 14, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

wide shot of students in their Elements of Dance class

https://youtu.be/46FOrGeEjLA

This summer students earned three college credits through Rowan’s Pre-College Institute (PCI), a six-week academic/residential program to better prepare freshmen for college. Here, we showcase their Elements of Dance class finale, where students performed in a recital organized by Professor Paule Turner of the Dance department within the College of Performing Arts.

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VISIT CAMPUS

Story and video by: Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music provided by: JoySpace

Arts

My Favorite Class: Elements of Dance

Posted on July 27, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Three students by the ballet bar in a session of Elements of Dance

This story is a part of the “My Favorite Class” series.

Rowan student Giovanni Rodriguez striking a dance pose in the dance studio

Meet Giovanni Rodriguez, an Athletic Training major from Woodbury, NJ (Gloucester County).

Giovanni is seen here in Elements of Dance, one of the courses he’s taking as part of the Pre-College Institute (PCI), a summer orientation program designed to prepare students for their transition to Rowan in the fall.

“[Elements of Dance] is one of my favorite classes that the PCI program offers. I love everything about it, and our professor Paule Turner is very open, kind and patient,” says Giovanni. “I’m happy that I’m living in Mullica Hall and that it’s so close to the dance studio in Memorial Hall.”

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Future First Year
...
- University College

First Year Voices: Rowan Choice Orientation

Posted on July 22, 2019April 11, 2025by Adeline McDonald

A group photo of three freshmen outside Wilson Hall

Three Rowan Choice students standing together in the Wilson Hall Courtyard.

Meet Ariana, Connor and Kayla, three Rowan Choice freshmen who met at orientation this summer.

“I’m so excited for the new adventure here on campus,” says Ariana Trabucco, an incoming Marketing major from Wayne, NJ (Passaic County).

“I’m most looking forward to being on a such a diverse campus. Rowan is a cultural mixing pot, and I’m excited to meet all sorts of new people,” says Connor Stevenson, an incoming Theatre Arts major from Haddonfield, NJ (Camden County).

“I can’t wait to meet new friends from different areas and new places. Since nobody knows me yet, it feels like a fresh new start with all new friends,” says Kayla Szymanski, an incoming Early Childhood Education major from Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County).

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VISIT CAMPUS

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

Alumni
...
- Arts

How My Theatre Degree Opened Up Many Doors

Posted on July 13, 2019October 1, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Rowan alumna Vanessa Vause in a performance of "The Little Mermaid"

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!

Arts
...
- Student Activities

Music Industry Students put on “Summer Kick Off” show at the Trocadero Theatre in Philadelphia

Posted on July 1, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Touring and Concert Promotion class at Rowan

At the end of the spring semester, Rowan Music Industry students created their very own touring and booking company and put on one of the last shows at the legendary Trocadero Theatre in Philadelphia.

The students of Rowan’s Music Industry program must take a “Touring and Concert Promotion” class. In this class, students have the opportunity to get hands-on experience with choosing/booking venues for music artists and handling all of the financials, marketing, merchandise and production of the show. This past year, the students were able to get their show at the Trocadero Theatre right before its final days as the venue is closing down for good. They decided to call their booking company “856 Touring” named after the local area code.

The show was named “Summer Kickoff” as it was toward the end of the school year and summer was fast approaching. The show consisted of four acts, which were all local. Guitarist performing at the Trocadero as part of Rowan's "Summer Kickoff" show.

The acts were Rec Philly acoustic soul artist Scarlet Cimillo, local rappers MCtheRockstar and OnlyJahmez, and New Jersey based band Ocean Heights as the headliner for the night.

Overall, the fun-filled night was full of different styles of music, people, and overall a fantastic turnout for the Touring and Concert promotion class!

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Story and photography by:
Bianca Torres, sophomore music industry major

Arts
...

Passing the Torch: Music Industry, First-Generation Student Gives Advice

Posted on May 22, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Three Rowan graduates standing together outside Robinson Hall

“The best way to connect with internships and job opportunities was through the Rowan Music Group and speaking to your professors,” says first-generation college student Emilio Del Hierro, an international student from Ecuador and a recent music industry graduate from the College of Performing Arts. Emilio rented an off-campus apartment and commuted to Rowan.

To manage your time effectively, make sure to “write everything down and keep an agenda!”

Like what you see? Come visit us!

VISIT CAMPUS

Story by:
Chad Wittman, rising senior journalism major

Photography by:
DeanPowers, rising sophomore radio/TV/film major

Arts
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- Hands-On Learning

Music Industry Major Works With Dream Company

Posted on March 23, 2019August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

During the summer of 2018, Devon interned with Sponsorships, then Premium Seat Sales in the fall. She anticipated challenges going into her sales position, but overcame issues faced with sales by integrating a different personality needed for the job. Her hard work paid off because she now works for Live Nation as a Scheduling Coordinator […]

Arts

Faculty PROFile: Joseph Higgins [VIDEO]

Posted on March 17, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Professor Higgins conducting the ensemble on stage in Pfleeger Hall

Meet Professor Joseph Higgins, a professor and musician who strives to inspire curiosity, creativity, and understanding through art.

In 2015, Professor Higgins joined Rowan’s faculty with the College of Performing Arts. He conducts the student wind ensembles, teaches courses in conducting and trains students who hope to be future music teachers.

“For the young musicians who love creating new things, who crave the power and connection of ensemble performance, who want to use their art to be a positive influence in their communities, this is exactly where they should be.”

Like what you see, come visit us!

VISIT CAMPUS

Video by: Vanessa Vause, senior public relations and theatre double major

Arts
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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Isabel Newell

Posted on March 14, 2019July 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Student Isabel wearing a prop hat inside the rehearsal room

Like what you see? Come visit us! VISIT CAMPUS Enter for a chance to win a Rowan t-shirt! Email RowanBlog [at] rowan.edu with the date and time of your upcoming campus tour … we may just email you that we’re going to surprise you while you’re visiting! Story and photography by: Vanessa Vause, senior public […]

Arts
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- Communication
- Future Transfer

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Robert Fanelli Jr.

Posted on March 12, 2019July 22, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Robert stands in his doorway of Holly Pointe at Rowan University wearing a black jacket and staring at the camera

Meet Robert Fanelli Jr., a senior double major in radio/TV/film and sound communication, from Hillsborough,NJ (Somerset County) who lives on campus at 220 Rowan Boulevard Apartments. Robert transferred here from Raritan Valley Community College after his freshman year. “I know most people go to community college for two years but I really was excited about […]

Arts
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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Niambi Fetlow

Posted on March 8, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Bambi sitting on a chair in the rehearsal room in Bunce

“I love the Theatre and Dance Department here because everyone makes me feel at home no matter how many times I fall down. I know I have a huge group of people here supporting me and helping me in any way that they can.

The people here are just a reminder of a quote from Maya Angelou that I live by, ‘People will forget what you said, they will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'”

Niambi (Bambi) Fetlow, theatre major (musical theatre concentration) from Pennsauken, NJ (Camden County) who lives in Rowan Boulevard Apartments.

Like what you see? Come visit us!

VISIT CAMPUS

Story and photography by: Vanessa Vause, senior public relations and theatre major

Arts
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- Future First Year
- University Housing

First Year Voices: Cassidy Anderson

Posted on March 2, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Cassidy sitting in front of window inside Rowan

“A major perk of living on campus as a freshman is always being close to my new friends. Rowan excites me about my major by giving me amazing professors who support me tremendously and provide me with great advice and by giving me many different opportunities to perform,” Cassidy Anderson, theatre (musical theatre concentration) & […]

Arts
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- First Generation
- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Salma Elwy

Posted on February 24, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Salma sitting at the piano in the practice room in Bunce

“I’m very lucky to be studying acting at Rowan because the sense of community here is so strong. In just one semester, I’ve made friends who I already feel so comfortable around and professors who are so willing to help me grow in my field. The small class sizes make it easy to learn and to make friends without the intimidation of a huge lecture class. I’m so excited to see what the next three and a half years have in store for me!” Salma Elwy, freshmen theatre major and Arabic minor from Sicklerville, NJ (Camden County). (First generation American college student).

Like what you see? Come visit us!

VISIT CAMPUS

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

Photography by: Vanessa Vause, senior public relations, advertising and theatre major

Arts
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- Student Activities

Kerry’s Home Away From Home: Blackbox Theater [VIDEO]

Posted on February 22, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Kerry and cast on the stage in the blackbox theater at rehearsal

Meet Kerry Jules, senior theatre major and advertising minor from Union, NJ (Union County), directing an original musical conceived by Matthew Vesely, senior theatre and writing arts major from Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County). Lights went up for the world premier of “Trigger Warning: A Melancholy Musical” on March 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm, and […]

Arts
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- Hands-On Learning

Music Industry Student Gains Hands-On Experience Through Live Performances

Posted on February 17, 2019August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Claire sits at a table with a Mac computer and microphone to work on a song in Wilson Hall's private recording studio.

Claire Jesseman, a senior Music Industry and Spanish double major from Ewing, NJ (Mercer County) may have discovered her favorite sound: the “ding” of a new email notification! Through opportunities sent out to Music Industry students by her professors and program coordinators, her Rowan education is actively filled with traveling, networking, and experiencing her field […]

Arts
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- Communication
- Future Transfer

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Hannah Marcellina

Posted on February 12, 2019July 22, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Meet transfer student Hannah Marcellina, a junior radio/TV/film and theatre major who commutes from Williamstown, New Jersey (Gloucester County). What wakes you up in the morning? There is a great sense of community and support at Rowan. It is such a good feeling knowing that not only do I have friends here that genuinely want me to succeed, […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts

#PROFspective: Nutrition and Dance Major Haley Migeot

Posted on February 11, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Haley outside Rowan Gym in Dance Team shirt

Today, we speak with Haley Migeot, a senior nutrition and dance double major who lives on campus in 220 Rowan Boulevard. 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: Haley Migeot […]

#PROFspective
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#PROFspective: Music Industry major Luis Vera

Posted on February 4, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today, we speak with Luis Vera, a junior Music Industry major from Bridgeton, NJ (Cumberland County) who commutes. Luis 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: Luis Vera Major: Music Industry Minor […]

Arts
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- Future First Year
- Student Activities

Joshua’s Home Away From Home: Wilson Practice Rooms [VIDEO]

Posted on January 31, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Young, white male student with yellow Rowan University standing in foreground with brick building blurred out in background

An environmental studies freshman from Nutley, NJ (Essex County), Joshua Masucci has continued with his love for playing music and has found a welcoming home away from home within the College of Performing Arts’ Wilson Hall’s practice rooms. Like what you see? Come visit us! VISIT CAMPUS Produced by: Alexander Belli, senior public relations and advertising […]

Arts
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- Commuter
- Student Activities

Don’s Home Away From Home: Studio 1 [VIDEO]

Posted on January 20, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Young male student playing electric guitar inside a music production student while sitting down in a chair

Watch Don DeWitt, junior music industry major and commuter from Monroeville, NJ (Gloucester County) in his home-away-from-home at Rowan, Studio 1 in Wilson Hall. Like what you see? Register for a tour or open house. VISIT CAMPUS Enter for a chance to win a Rowan t-shirt! Email RowanBlog [at] rowan.edu with the date and time […]

Arts
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- Future Transfer

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Luis Vera

Posted on January 15, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Meet Luis (on left), a junior music industry tech major from Bridgeton, NJ (Cumberland County.) Why did you choose to come to Rowan? “I chose Rowan because out of all the programs in New Jersey I applied for, Rowan’s seemed spunky and new and was in the growing phase. It was also a lot cheaper […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts

#PROFspective: Classical Performance Major Luke Altman

Posted on January 9, 2019July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Luke outfront of Wilson Hall with his guitar and amp outfront Rowan University sign

Today, we speak with Luke Altman, a sophomore classical performance major from Westfield, N.J. (Union County) who lives on campus in 230 Victoria Street. Luke will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how he gets the most out of his college experience as a Rowan Prof. […]

Arts
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- Future Transfer

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Joseph Murphy

Posted on December 25, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

close up of fingers making peace sign with two hands

Meet Joseph Murphy, a junior music industry major who commutes from Woolwich, NJ (Gloucester County). Why did you choose to come to Rowan? “I chose Rowan because they offered a program tailored to my interests [music industry] and it was the most affordable option for me.” What is one piece of advice you have for […]

Arts

Emily’s Home Away From Home: Costume Shop [VIDEO]

Posted on December 24, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Get a glimpse into the home away from home at Rowan University for Emily Stansbury of Marlton, NJ (Burlington County) … the Department of Theatre and Dance Costume Shop! Like what you see, come visit us! VISIT CAMPUS Enter for a chance to win a Rowan t-shirt! Email RowanBlog [at] rowan.edu with the date and time […]

Arts

Faculty PROFile: Costume Shop’s Jamie Grace-Duff

Posted on December 3, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Meet Jamie Grace-Duff, costume lecturer and costume shop supervisor within the Department of Theatre and Dance, who earned her MFA in Costume Design/Technology from Temple University in 2012 and a BS in Fashion Design from Drexel University in 2002. What is your area of expertise? My focus is on pattern making, tailoring, and construction of […]

Offbeat Rowan

Prof Style: Jordan Taylor

Posted on October 13, 2018February 28, 2019by Adeline McDonald

Rowan University student with blue hair wearing a silver silk jacket standing outside Robo

“I’ve wanted to do blue hair for a long time. I eventually want to go neon green. I got this jacket at Urban Outfitters, on sale for 20 bucks!” Jordan Taylor, a sophomore music industry major from Marlton, N.J. (Burlington County). VISIT CAMPUS Enter for a chance to win a Rowan t-shirt! Email RowanBlog [at] […]

Arts
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- Offbeat Rowan

What Profs are Listening to: Sydney Atkinson

Posted on October 12, 2018April 4, 2019by Adeline McDonald

“I like Ed Sheeran because all he needs is a loop pedal, a guitar and a microphone. It’s cool to see just one guy doing something on his own that a whole band usually does.” Sydney Atkinson, a sophomore Music Industry major from Flemington, N.J. (Hunterdon County). Like what you see? Come visit us! VISIT […]

Arts

Rowan University Student with Spondylo-Epi-Metaphyseal Dysplasia (SEMD) Shares Her Campus Experience

Posted on October 8, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Mackenzie Trust outside Rowan University Bunce Hall

Two years ago, Rowan University student Mackenzie Trush shared her experience with Spondylo-Epi-Metaphyseal Dysplasia (SEMD), an extremely rare form of dwarfism (less than 100 known cases exist). After the previous article, “Dominating the Stage at 3 ft tall,” Mackenzie received an overwhelming amount of support from readers all over the world. In honor of Dwarfism […]

Arts
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- First Generation
- Hands-On Learning

Seth Jackson: Previous #PROFspective’s Vision Comes to Life

Posted on October 3, 2018August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Featured in 2017 on Rowan’s #PROFspective, Seth Jackson, a first generation college student junior from Baltimore, MD, spoke of proposing his original show, The Blurred Perspectives, to Lab Theatre, a student-run organization producing and performing many varieties of art. You can even find a picture of his original script in his #PROFspective! Fast forward to September […]

Arts
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Senior Artist Creates Original Work in Both Writing and Performing Arts

Posted on September 26, 2018August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Senior writing arts and theatre double major Matthew Vesely of Williamstown (Gloucester County) uses his creative juices in any outlet he can get his hands on. From conceptualizing and writing his own original musical, to coming up with blog stories and social media posts for his internship, you’ll find Matt taking what he’s learning from his […]

Arts
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- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Aidan Williams

Posted on September 21, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

rowan university evergreen hall with greenery

“I love the campus a lot … it’s very green. I’m big on landscaping for some reason, and it’s real nice. I just really love how it feels like home but only an hour and thirty minutes away,” Aidan Williams. Music Composition Major, Felton, DE (Kent County). Like what you see, come visit us! VISIT […]

Arts
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- Education
- Future First Year

First Year Voices: Timothy Stathokostas

Posted on September 12, 2018July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Rowan University Wilson Hall with Rowan Banner in springtime

“I like my private single Chestnut dorm a lot and exploring the Student Center with my friends is fun and always gives us something to do,” Timothy Stathokostas. Jazz Studies and Music Education major, Woodstown, NJ (Salem County). Like what you see, come visit us! VISIT CAMPUS Enter for a chance to win a Rowan […]

Arts
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- Student Activities

Rowan Lab Theatre Takes the Stage

Posted on October 5, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Over the past few weeks, Lab Theatre e-Board (executive board) members have built up their name and reputation through social media with their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat @RowanLabTheatre. I personally have received follows from all accounts, so great job with the publicity, team! Rowan Lab Theatre, a student-run, student government club, serves as a student-elected, […]

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

Posted on September 27, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

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
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- Arts
- Engineering

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

Posted on July 18, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

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 […]

#PROFspective
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#PROFspective Liberal Studies Sequence Business and Sociology Major Tiara Nock

Posted on April 10, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we speak with Tiara Nock, a senior liberal studies: sequence business and sociology major from Franklinville, Gloucester County, who rents an apartment off campus. She 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: […]

Arts
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- Hands-On Learning
- Student Activities

Rare Opportunity for Student to Light Up the Stage

Posted on April 3, 2017August 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

student lighting director sits at a computer working

Inside Tohill Theater, it is nearly pitch black except for the glow of two computer screens. Behind the screens sit a team of magicians, creating a story on stage – not with acting, but with light. Onstage is the classic horror story of Carrie, made famous by the 1970’s film featuring a bloody prom, and […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts
- Future Transfer

#PROFspective: Music Major Dean A.A. Mason

Posted on March 10, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we speak with Dean A.A. Mason, a senior music major from Vineland, Cumberland County, who rents an apartment off campus and commutes to Rowan. Dean 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: […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts

#PROFspective: Music Major Steve Solkela [VIDEO]

Posted on March 3, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Steve looks out the window at the Glassboro water tower while playing accordian

Normally, our #PROFspective series highlights a day in the life of a major here at Rowan University, through the written word of the student. With sophomore music major Steve Solkela, however, we felt it best for him to tell part of his story in his own voice. A Minnesota native, the one-man-band will share his […]

Arts
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- Hands-On Learning
- Student Activities

Esteemed Actor Joins Cast, Teaches Students

Posted on February 17, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Actor Brian Anthony Wilson stares upward during a production

Feature photo courtesy of David Cimetta Philadelphia’s own professional actor Brian Anthony Wilson joins Rowan theatre students to perform the audacious role of Titus in Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus. The 6′ 3” thespian is most known for his work in Creed (2015), Limitless (2011), and as his character Vernon Holley in the HBO series “The Wire.” This is […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts
- First Generation

#PROFspective: Theatre Arts Major Seth Jackson

Posted on February 6, 2017July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we speak with Seth Jackson, a sophomore Theatre Arts major from Baltimore, Maryland, who lives on campus in Rowan Blvd. Apartments (Robo.) Seth 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: Seth Jackson […]

#PROFspective
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- Arts

#PROFspective: Music Industry Major, Ricardo

Posted on December 25, 2016August 28, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Today we speak with Ricardo O., a sophomore music industry major originally from Caracas, Venezuela, who now calls Randolph, Morris County, home when he’s not living in Edgewood Apartments at Rowan. Ricardo 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 […]

Arts
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- Student Activities

Dominating the Stage at 3 Feet Tall

Posted on December 8, 2016July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Mackenzie Trush smiles from behind a wall filled with mosaic art

Don’t let her size fool you; Mackenzie Trush is a force to be reckoned with. A sophomore at Rowan University originally from Franklinville, Gloucester County, Mackenzie Trush is making history on Tohill Stage as the first little person to star in a mainstage show. Standing at 36 inches tall, she was born with one of […]

Arts
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- Student Activities

Theatre Life:
Coffins, Gravestones, and Vampires, Oh My!

Posted on October 31, 2016July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

student performers practice Dracula on stage as tech students look on

Get with the spooky spirit of Halloween with “Dracula” the play! With help from directors Elisabeth Hostetter and Tom Fusco, Rowan students take on “Dracula” a theatre production telling the tale of the dramatic vampire adventure. This fast-paced adaptation is one of the most extensive and dynamic performances tackled by students on campus. The stage […]

Arts

Timothy Schwarz: Musician, Performer & Professor

Posted on October 20, 2016July 21, 2025by Adeline McDonald

Timothy Schwarz, MM, DMA, is an accomplished musician, elite violinist and inspiring educator at Rowan University. At just 9 years old he won a competition to play solo with the Philadelphia Orchestra. He toured the world as an Artistic Ambassador on behalf of the U.S. State Department playing places like Syria, Egypt, Israel and Sri Lanka. […]