prof pets

Offbeat Rowan

National Dog Day: August 26 Is a Day For The Dogs

Posted on August 26, 2021August 11, 2021by Natalie DePersia

Rowan Blog contributor, Public Relations major and student athlete Natalie DePersia captures Rowan’s beloved Prof Pets.

As tribute to National Dog Day, we would like to highlight some of the pets of our Rowan students and alumni.

Student Oluwafemi Sonubi with Willow, his Husky. — Computer Science major Oluwafemi Sonubi with Willow, a Siberian husky, on Bunce Green.

National Dog Day is more than just a day to have a bigger incentive to post a cute picture of your furry friend. This national day is a holiday that is also celebrated to bring awareness to the canine population that needs adopting and rescuing. National Dog Day is a day to celebrate every dog breed at every stage and age.

Lacey Lu Shane Feldschneider, (right) a yellow Labrador Retriever, 10 years old with Ellie J. Feldschneider, (left) a Golden Retriever, 1 year old. — Alumna Taylor Feldschneider’s dogs Ellie J. Feldschneider (left), a golden retriever, with Lacey Lu Shane Feldschneider (right), a yellow labrador retriever.

While purchasing an owning purebred dogs in America is common, it is important to be educated on the importance of adopting a dog. There are many shelters around that have purebred adoption options available as well. By adopting a furry friend, you may not only save the life of your dog, you are contributing to breaking the system of pet overpopulation, you will be paying way less than buying a dog from a breeder, and you can be potentially inspiring others to adopt as well.

Dog playing with owner in snow on Rowan Boulevard. — Mini golden doodle puppy Penny playing with owner Julia Neiheiser (not pictured) in the snow on Rowan Boulevard.

Dogs are important because they also provide company and companionship. Whether you are trying to sleep through a windy storm, afraid of the dark, or simply having a bad day, a dog can not only help you feel better, they can relieve stress and anxiety as well. Dogs provide endless positivity; the simplest adventures are viewed as the greatest joy from a dogs point of view.

Dog sitting on Rowan Proud chair. — Theatre and Advertising major Nick Flagg’s corgi Fiona is #RowanProud.

Dogs are also amazing by their ability to help their owners. There are many different types of service dogs ranging from; diabetes assist dogs that can detect low blood sugar levels, autism service dogs that assist those with autism by helping them with everyday tasks, hearing dogs that assist individuals with hearing problems, seizure response dogs who assist their owner during or after a seizure, guide dogs who assist visibly impaired owners, and more.

Katelyn Rapp's graduation photos with her dog. — Recent grad Katelyn Rapp took graduation photos with her pug, Goya.

Dogs truly are amazing and provide so much love and presence in our everyday lives. Whether you have a dog of your own, are looking into adopting a furry friend, or just love these companions from afar, make sure to send some love to a dog today.

Rowan student with her Dachshund puppy. — Economics major Sarah Prosser with her dachshund puppy Slinky.

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Story By:
Natalie DePersia, junior public relations major

International Student Shares Why Rowan

Posted on June 14, 2021June 21, 2021by Caitlyn Dickinson

Oluwafemi Sonubi is a senior international student from Nigeria majoring in Computer Science who became interested in Rowan for swimming.

How did you hear about Rowan’s swim team?

A recruiter from Nigeria was helping me look at schools. I was going to either go to England, Canada or here. I applied to about 30 different schools. Rowan was the second offer I received, and after that I started traveling and looking at all the schools.

I was bullied a lot in high school and so England was out of the question for me because that’s where all my bullies were. I wanted to start fresh, and Rowan has given me the tranquility that I wanted and needed to focus.

How do you like New Jersey?

New Jersey has been an experience. Meeting [my friend] Josh and everyone around me, the culture, the music. The different diversities and generations of history, it’s beautiful. I actually went to the Glass Museum, and it was so fun. World history never used to excite me, but history of regular things does.

Oluwafemi posing in front of Bunce Hall

What are your plans after graduation? Are you graduating now?

No, I’m staying an extra year because I want to add on a business minor. My dad convinced me to because I’m a big numbers person. After graduation I plan on focusing on my music more. Music has been my escape, whether I’m happy or sad or emotional I’ve put it all out through music or art. I produce, draw and DJ.

Do you plan on staying in New Jersey?

I want to stay in New Jersey for a while.

How have you felt supported on campus? How did you acclimate to being in a new country?

The first thing was the African Student Association on campus. That was the first place I found people who understood my background and culture and helped me acclimate out of it and how to get adjusted and be myself.

Willow giving paw to Oluwafemi on Bunce Green

How did you end up with Willow?

My roommate actually. He wanted to get a dog and so one day there was a dog in the house. Because he works so much, I take care of her more. I plan on buying her from him at the end of the year. She runs about 2-3 miles a day.

What’s the worst food you’ve had in New Jersey?

That’s an interesting question because I do go out to eat a lot. I don’t think I’ve had bad food. The best food, I tried the cheesecake milkshake at Wawa. That was an experience for me because I’ve never had it before.

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

Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Exercise Science Major Taylor Fest

Posted on February 2, 2021July 27, 2021by Rachel Rumsby

Today we speak to Taylor Fest, a sophomore Health and Exercise Science major. Taylor is from Cinnaminson, NJ (Burlington County) and transferred from Rowan College of Burlington County. She lives on campus in the Rowan Boulevard Apartments.

Taylor poses in front of a brick wall.

What wakes you up in the morning?

I am very passionate about animals. I have 3 pets of my own. I have a bunny named Cooper, a dog named Krimpet, and a cat named Primrose. I also take care of some of the cats in the neighborhood, and I take care of my neighbor’s four dogs sometimes. I love my pets so much that I decided I want to be an Animal Rehabilitation Therapist.

Taylor's dog, Krimpet. — Taylor’s dog, Krimpet.

Taylor's cat, Primrose. — Taylor’s cat, Primrose.

Taylor's bunny, Cooper. — Taylor’s bunny, Cooper.

Tell us about your transition into Rowan.

I was nervous to be away from home for the first time. I overcame it by finding things to do on campus. I was able to go to events that I found on ProfLink. My brother is here working on his master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, so I was able to see him a lot too.

Share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you.

I was looking through ProfLink for clubs to join, and the Crew Club Team caught my eye. I emailed the president, Kristen Wolfe, and she emailed me back telling me when the next meeting was. I went to the meeting, and everyone was very friendly and welcoming. I made a lot of friends through the club, and one of them is now my roommate.

Taylor with her friends Rachel and Erwin from the Rowan Crew Club team. — Taylor, left, with her friends Rachel, center, and Erwin, right, from the Rowan Crew Club team.

Why did you choose Rowan?

I have a few family members that went here, such as my brother and my cousin. They had wonderful experiences here, and my whole family loves Rowan. Knowing that they had good experiences here made me want to choose Rowan.

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

Header photo and photo of Taylor, Rachel, and Erwin by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Photos of Taylor and Taylor’s pets submitted by:
Taylor Fest, sophomore health and exercise science major

Thank you to New Jersey Digest for recognizing Rowan Blog as one of the best university blogs in the state.

Offbeat Rowan

Cuddle Up, Profs, for National Cuddle Up Day!

Posted on January 6, 2021December 23, 2020by Bianca Torres

To celebrate National Cuddle Up Day, we’re featuring some Profs who are spreading the love and snuggling up with their friends, family and pets!

Matthew Knox hugging his girlfriend while sitting outside on the grass. — Matthew Knox snuggling up with his girlfriend, Gina Mazurkiewicz!

Justice holding a small black and white puppy in front of a Fraternity insignia. — Justice Lateef holding a puppy named Malibu!

Sarah Giron with her family on the Bunce Hall steps.

Helaina and her boyfriend holding each other. — Helaina Parejo giving her boyfriend a hug!

Artaisha holding her daughter, Sage, and smiling. — Artaisha Diggs holding her daughter, Sage!

Two roommates forming a heart with their hands together. — Roommates, Gatha Adhikari and Himani Bhakta, showing some love!

Sarah kissing her dog, Slinky the minitiature Dauschund. — Sarah Prosser giving her dog Slinky some kisses!

Karen hangs out with her friends. — Karen getting comfortable and laying across her pals!

Chris Finnegan hangs out with a friend by Winans Hall. — Chris Finnegan hanging out with his friend.

Alex sitting and hugging with her boyfriend. — Alex snuggling up with her boyfriend!

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major

Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Offbeat Rowan

PROFpets: Sarah Prosser and Slinky The Miniature Dachshund

Posted on October 23, 2020October 16, 2020by Stephanie Batista

Slinky the dachshund sitting outside in grass.

Sarah Prosser talks about the new addition to her family — Slinky, a miniature dachshund. “In general, if you want to get a dog just get it. He brings so much happiness.” – Sarah Prosser Story and photos by: Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: New Routines and Calming Views

Posted on April 18, 2020August 27, 2020by Christina Lynn

Laurence Harbor views as taken by Lauren Repmann

Welcome to our series to give you a glimpse into Rowan University, our campus culture, and the lives of our students, while we’re practicing social distancing to protect society from the spread of COVID-19. Today’s story is from Lauren Repmann, a sophomore relocated to her house in Middlesex County, NJ, for the rest of the semester.

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

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

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

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

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

Laurence Harbor views — Laurence Harbor waterfront

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

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

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Story and photos by:
Lauren Repmann, biomedical engineering sophomore

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- Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: Prof Pups

Posted on April 7, 2020August 28, 2020by Devon Graf

Far away image of person walking dog at a park under a cherry tree.

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 Devon Graf, a senior communications studies major self-distancing from her house in Camden County, NJ. Devon joined the Rowan Blog team to wrap up her remaining internship hours, after her internship with Enchanted Celebrations was cut short prematurely due to COVID-19 affecting business.

Looking for something to liven up your day? I’m here to introduce you to our very special celebs of the week, Prof Pets! During these hard times it may be difficult to find a little positivity … these pets will be sure to brighten your day up.

Professor Dog. Caption says ok class, you all got A's on your papers, because I ate them. — Don’t we wish this was the case! (Hey, Prof Pup, fix that typo!)

Athena – Athena is a two year old mixed pit bull. She was rescued from a shelter in Camden, after she was abused by her previous owners. She, along with her mother and father, brothers and sisters got separated at the pound. Athena found her “fur”ever home with Nikki Schaefer, a senior student at Rowan. Athena likes to play with her friends, cuddle and go for long walks, she is the most loving, gentle dog that just wants to be loved. We love you Athena!
Athena
Heidi – Our Heidi girl coming in famous here! Heidi is my own pup. I love her so much. Heidi is a two and a half year old rambunctious female lab. Boy, is this a crazy dog! I was surprised with Heidi on Christmas Eve by my mom and dad. They adopted her from Lancaster, PA. Heidi is the most fun loving dog around … and FULL of energy. Labs are a very smart breed, and she learns very quickly. Heidi loves to play ball in the backyard, and when you say “dog park” this dog jumps in joy. Heidi loves the dog park, she’s a super sociable dog that will play forever, I notice Heidi loves to steal fruit snacks, eat your left over cereal, and steal your socks.
Heidi
Bella – Bella babe is a super favorite over here. She was rescued from a neighbor back home in Freehold, NJ, by Madelyn. Bella is about two years old and she loves to cuddle and be around people.
Bella
Molly & Carson – Molly is a 9 year old loving dog who love was a rescue. Jenna Broadbent (a Rowan education major) loves to hangout with Molly all the time. Molly has a brother, Carson, who is another rescue who is 3 years old.
Molly and Carson
Next up we have Madelyn Buckingham’s rescue pups! They are both puppy mill rescues and survivors. The furry brown one is the youngest and her favorite thing to do is be held and rocked. The older lab mix has an adorable obsession with gummy bears… (Me too).
Sophie – Sophie was born on December 29, 2018 in Alabama. She’s just over one year old. She enjoys playing fetch and loves healthy snacks like spinach and green beans … (I wish I loved them as much as Sophie!). She also loves the beach and to snuggle. Sophie has her own Instagram for you to follow! @Sophiethebmd
Sophie
Korona – A big shout out to Syndie Kinsler on her cute six year old cattle dog chow mix. She enjoys kayaking, hiking, swimming and being out in the woods with horses. She is a very loyal and loving dog who loves to cuddle!
Korona
Gabriella Snookie – Brandon Clement and his mother chose Gabby from an Amish farm 10 years ago. She was completely black with a brown bottom. She stared at Brandon and his mother and completely fell in love! It was like they were all soulmates. She was the last pup out of the litter. When Gabby turned 8 months they got her to be a service dog and become licensed and fully trained with the state. Amazing! She can sense when Brandon’s mother is suffering from anxiety. She was a god send!
Gabby
Last up, we have Kourtey Clyde’s pup, Baxter. His birthday is April 4, and he was born in Tennessee. He loves carrots and to play fetch. He can’t sleep unless he is laying on his back.
Baxter

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Story and photography by:
Devon Graf, Senior Communication Studies Major

Photography submitted in by Rowan students

North Jersey
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- Pandemic Profs

Pandemic Profs: Bonding with My Dog

Posted on March 24, 2020August 28, 2020by Adeline McDonald

Riley the golden retriever stands in the middle of large yard.

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 Jason Russack, a sophomore isolating in his house in Warren County, NJ. Jason is a civil and environmental engineering major who normally lives in Whitney Apartments during the school year.

Jason and Riley pose for a selfie. Hello Rowan Profs! Normally I’d be in Whitney Apartments, hanging out with friends and going through my engineering homework. However, being stuck at home, I have decided to take some extra time to bond with my beloved golden retriever, Riley!

Riley is 10 years old and doesn’t like the cold much, so she definitely needs to get outside more than ever this spring. I have made it my duty to play with her on every sunny day for at least an hour, even if that means we are just sitting and catching rays in the lawn! It has proven to be very rewarding being that I love nature. Not only has it helped my boredom, it is definitely healthy to soak up vitamin D and breathe fresh air, while physically distancing myself from others. Stay healthy and get outside when possible, it can make your day.

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Story and photography by:
Jason Russack, sophomore civil & environmental engineering major

Offbeat Rowan

PROF Pets: Zazu

Posted on January 31, 2020January 22, 2020by Nicole Cier

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

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- South Jersey

PROF Pets: Salem the Cat

Posted on October 5, 2019December 4, 2019by Justin Borelli

PROF pet Salem the cat, owned by advertising major Justin Borelli.

Meet Salem!

Breed: Black shorthair

Age: 11 months

Owner: Justin Borelli, Advertising major, College of Communication and Creative Arts

Lives in: Pitman, NJ (Gloucester County)

He’s very energetic and playful and loves napping in the sun.

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Story by:
Justin Borelli, advertising senior

North Jersey
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- Offbeat Rowan

PROF Pets: Billie

Posted on September 7, 2019June 11, 2021by Chad Wittmann

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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Story and photography by:
Chad Wittmann, senior journalism major

North Jersey
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- Offbeat Rowan

PROF Pets: Egg, Frankie and Gandalf

Posted on September 1, 2019June 11, 2021by Chad Wittmann

The rats seeing a dog outside of their cage

Egg, the Dumbo Rat Meet Egg, Frankie and Gandalf!

Names: Egg, Frankie (after Frank Ocean) and Gandalf (from Lord of the Rings)

Breed: Dumbo rats, hairless

Age: approximately six months old

Likes: fruit and climbing

Dislikes: baths

Frankie, the Dumbo Hairless Rat

Gandalf, the Dumbo Rat

“I’m grateful that I found an off-campus house so I can have my rats with me at school! They’re actually such sweet pets, and I think people should give them a chance.” — Jenny Hovell, senior Law and Justice Studies/Art double major from Blairstown, NJ (Warren County).

Rowan student Jenny Hovell with two of her pet rats