Rowan University students share their volunteer and leadership experience with Fresh For All, an on-campus initiative spearheaded by Philabundance that brings free, fresh fruits and vegetables to campus every week.
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Student Created:
Adam Clark, senior Radio/TV/Film major
Louis Testa III, senior music composition major
According to its website, Rowan University Hillel is a club for students, by students, that shares Jewish cultural and spiritual values in a social setting. Club President Rachel Levy and Vice President Alex Herschman share their experiences as part of this community.
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Video by:
Max Morgan, senior Radio/TV/Film major
Music by:
Dan Ledden, graduate advertising major
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 […]
Today we speak with William Hendrixson, a fifth-year senior from Egg Harbor Township (Atlantic County) who is currently on track to complete a dual major in Management Information Systems and Computing and Informatics. He also has a leadership role with the volunteer program Fresh For All. Learn more about William and his strong passion for helping the community.
William Hendrixson is the top coordinator in charge of Fresh For All, a food distribution program on campus with the goal of getting fresh produce to the campus and surrounding communities.
Will explains: “Fresh For All is a program where we work with a couple of different organizations to get fresh vegetables, fruit and sometimes dairy, to students and local community members who need it.”
The program is set up every Friday from 10-11 a.m. in parking lot D by the Engineering building. The food comes from an outside organization called Philabundance, which goes out to farmer’s markets and grocery stores seeking donations.
When asked who is eligible for free food, he says anyone at all. “You don’t need ID, you don’t need proof of need, or anything. We distribute every Friday, year round,” he adds.
According to Will, Fresh for All serves on average 150 families a week.
“Our highest is around 170,” he says.
In terms of the ratio of students to families, he explains, “It’s definitely more families. More from the local communities. I would say it can be up to about a quarter students, but the majority is definitely locals [who] need it.”
Will works with the Office of Volunteerism at Rowan, which put him in charge of the Fresh for All program. He says his individual responsibility on Fridays during distribution is to “make sure the event goes smoothly.”
Fresh For All has given William the opportunity to to go out and help people. Even though it has nothing to do with his majors or career, he still just enjoys the feeling of putting a smile on someone’s face.
When asked if this was something that he sees in his future, William responds: “Not necessarily as a career, because as I mentioned I’m kind of more from a tech background. But I want to be successful enough where I can give back to the community.”
Will’s favorite thing about Fresh For All is the genuine difference that it makes. He says, “You can kind of see on people’s faces that it really helps and that’s definitely it, just knowing that you’re making a difference in someone’s week.”
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Story and photography by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major
Photos by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
Today, we speak to Jenna Fischer, a senior Public Relations major with a Strategic Communications minor who transferred from Middlesex County College. Jenna is studying remotely from her home in East Brunswick, NJ (Middlesex County) in light of COVID-19. She tells us more about how she’s staying involved on campus while living at home.
“I chose Rowan because I saw that [the school] had a lot of opportunities to grow within my major. They were one of the few colleges in the state that had my major and had other options to go along with it,” says PR major Jenna Fischer, who initially chose Rowan because she knew a degree at Rowan would help her get her foot in the door with a job before she graduates.
At Middlesex County College, Jenna initially didn’t know what major would be the right one for her. She decided to talk to her advisor and everything suddenly came together.
“I needed to talk to someone about picking classes, and I didn’t know what to pick. She told me, ‘Well, you seem like you would be good in public relations.’ I didn’t even know what that was! She started explaining it more, and I realized that it would be a good fit for me. So, I looked into it some more and ended up falling in love with it,” she explains.
Jenna’s senior year has been a little different than the rest of her years at Rowan because of the COVID-19 pandemic. She admits there have been some challenges with taking online courses and staying at home in East Brunswick, NJ.
“Honestly, one of the most challenging parts is I feel like I have a lot more work! I also have been going a little stir-crazy. I’m a very introverted person so I like being home … but this is a new level!”
However, even though she’s off-campus, Jenna is still staying hopeful and active on-campus through her e-board position as Communications Director with Rowan’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America. She had her doubts about being able to work with the club remotely, but she found that she still enjoys her work with the club.
“I was kind of worried because I was thinking what am I going to do because I’m not on campus but it was a lot easier than I thought,” Jenna says. “I’m always reaching out to the advisors of the club to just make sure I’m on the right track of things.”
Jenna also shares that her club meetings give her a sense of community even when she’s away. She says PRSSA has been very accommodating and she feels more connected to everyone on campus.
“Our e-board meetings definitely keep me informed with what’s going on. Everyone’s also super understanding. We did do an in-person picnic, but we also had a virtual option so I think its beneficial for a club to incorporate both options. I actually did end up going to campus because I was itching to go! Get involved in some kind of club because that’s the main reason why I’m in contact with everyone on campus. Everyone in the club are mainly my friends on campus too.”
When asked about the pros and cons of staying remote this semester, Jenna says:
“The main reason why I didn’t want to come back to campus was because I was scared that I was going to catch something and bring it back home. I also didn’t feel the need to be back on campus if I was doing my classes online. So I feel a little safer being home. A con for me would be that I don’t get to see my friends in person very much. One way I do try to stay involved is that I FaceTime them a lot, which I highly recommend everyone do! I’m not a big fan of talking on the phone but it’s good to be able to talk and see your friends that way.”
Quarantine hasn’t been all bad for Jenna. She even found an internship opportunity within her field!
“I was so ready to give up on applying because I wouldn’t hear back or I wouldn’t get them. I was getting so frustrated because a lot of my friends were still getting internships! So, I was scrolling through social media and this one company I was kind of eyeing put out a post saying ‘Hey we’re going to have summer interns.’
“So I applied immediately and ended up getting it! It was so much fun and all-remote. I was a social media marketing intern. I was skeptical about it at first because I wasn’t sure if I was going to get the same experience. It was so fun!”
Jenna shares a piece of advice for those struggling to connect with Rowan’s campus while being remote.
“Definitely reach out to professors if you want to get involved in any kind of club. I know professors who are also advisors who will usually plug in clubs at the end of class. PRSSA is looking for general members! It’s not scary, we have a speaker of the week talk to the club and you can participate if you want! I really do think it’s helpful. Just participating in any kind of Zoom club or event — I really recommend!”
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Photos courtesy of:
Jenna Fischer
Today we feature Marc Castrillon, a Rowan Global student pursuing his master’s degree in business administration (MBA). Here, Marc talks about his Rowan experience and how completing the Business Certificate of Graduate Study launched him into the MBA program and, soon, a dream career.
Marc Castrillon didn’t envision himself in a Rowan MBA cohort when he first entered the Rohrer College of Business as an undergraduate just five short years ago. Yet by this spring, he will have amassed three degrees, one certificate of graduate study, two field experiences and numerous professional connections through a student leadership role.
He’s now confidently on his way to a career in human resources management. “If I knew what I know now, two years ago, or a year ago, I would have had even less hesitation and been even more excited for the graduate program,” he says.
Marc’s graduate journey began with a major change as a business undergrad. He arrived to the Rowan as a Marketing major. In speaking with his sister, whose career is in human resources, and others in the profession, Marc discovered he was interested in the same line of work. After taking HR-intensive courses, Marc added the Human Resources Management major to his undergraduate degree in Management.
With a path in motion, Marc initially researched human resources advanced degrees to build upon his knowledge base; but he discovered other area HR master’s programs were “three or four times the price and a lot of extra requirements.”
Casting a wider net, Marc found an option with Rowan Global’s Business Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS), which checked off a few boxes. He took the required five courses and, upon admittance into the MBA, transferred the credits into its larger, broader business degree. The accelerated pace of just 15 credits also meant Marc could complete the program quickly, which he says he felt compelled to do soon after graduation.
“At the time, I was already on a roll with school, and I was performing at a really high pace and getting good grades. I didn’t want to go and work for a few years and then come back and lose that momentum,” he says.
Through the COGS program, students who apply and are accepted into Rowan’s MBA may enter without a standardized test requirement — an admissions component Marc also appreciated. “I knew that if I went through the COGS program, and I performed as well as I had been doing in my undergraduate, I wouldn’t have to take the GMAT. And I did not want to take off three to six or … however many months it would take for me to prepare for that test. So that was a major factor in me deciding to go straight into my graduate program,” he explains.
Marc’s choice to pursue the broader Rowan MBA paid off in other ways as well; he’s taken classes outside his human resources track and notes faculty are quick to deliver on new courses based on student feedback he may not have had access to in a more narrow program.
“I think how wide the scale the classes are in the MBA program really shows how much the school cares about its students,” he says. “They recently added entrepreneurship courses that were not previously available — and they became available because a lot of students have been asking for entrepreneurship-type courses.”
The College of Business has tapped Marc to serve as the inaugural Director of Community and Membership for the Rohrer Graduate Student and Alumni Advisory Board. According to its website, “Members are actively engaged in academics and shared community connections that elevate the student experience and the reputation of Rohrer Graduate Programs.”
In this new role, Marc has leveraged his business skills to lead recruiting, outreach and engagement efforts. He also co-manages a lively LinkedIn account for MBA and M.S. in Finance students and alumni. He enjoys his new position as it closely aligns with his future goals.
“It’s really good for someone who is working within human resources recruiting and retaining membership,” Marc says. “That’s a big component of it — networking events. For now we’re trying to work on online networking events. But I would [also] love the opportunity to create a networking event in person.”
A pandemic has not slowed down Marc’s year-long internship experience with the healthcare company LabCorp, where he is learning to determine executive and sales compensation for employees at the vice president level or above both domestically and abroad.
“I don’t know if I want to stay in compensation; there are other parts of human resources that I want to get into. So following my MBA, I want to get SHRM [Society of Human Resource Management] certification,” Marc says.
Zeroing in on his future, Marc is acutely aware of the importance networking and professional connections have played in his academic life. Until entering the graduate program, he says: “I didn’t realize how much farther [faculty] are willing to go with you to make sure that you succeed.
“Even if it’s outside of their office hours, they will sit with you after class and they’ll explain a problem to you. And they make everybody feel welcome … the whole graduate program feels very inclusive, which to my understanding with my friends who are in other graduate programs, I don’t know if they can say the same.”
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College isn’t complete without getting involved to make campus feel like home. Here are 5 ways Loredonna Fiore, a junior Public Relations and Advertising major, did it.
1. Joining Residential Learning and University Housing (RLUH).
As a commuter during my freshman year, I didn’t know how to feel more connected to campus. A friend of mine who was an RA asked me to go to an information session to look further into the position. I applied, interviewed and thankfully got the RA position. As a sophomore, I found where I belonged on campus. I got to work with amazing student leaders, supportive professional staff and got to connect with wonderful freshman residents (shoutout to Chestnut Hall Class of 2023). I am now the Assistant Resident Director of Mimosa Hall, and I am learning and growing in this new role alongside my awesome team. RLUH has taught me the power of impact and how each of us can make a difference, big or small.
2. Being an admissions ambassador.
When I applied to be an admissions ambassador, I learned so many things about Rowan that made me love it even more. Getting to learn about Rowan’s history, all of the resources we offer and working with the professional staff was an awesome experience. I loved helping prospective students and giving them a glimpse of Rowan.
3. Becoming an Orientation Leader.
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, I wasn’t able to put all that I learned in PROS training to the test. I am looking forward to doing so next summer (hopefully). From what I did get to experience, I know that I am excited to go back to it. During training, I enjoyed learning about my staff and how we would operate as a team. I can’t wait to get to work with and help freshmen students.
4. Interning with Rowan Blog.
I was able to apply for my internship because of my Introduction to Public Relations professor. Professor Farney would always talk about real-life examples from her work with Rowan Admissions. I reached out to her in the summer to see if there were spaces available on her team, and she welcomed me with open arms. This is an awesome way to get involved on campus — using the connections you form in your classes and seeing them through to opportunities. Now, I get to meet so many great students and faculty members and expand my portfolio every week. Take advantage of these opportunities.
5. Attending Events.
Throughout my college experience so far, I have been able to attend events that make Rown feel like home. I love watching Rowan men’s soccer games and attending the live shows at the Bunce Black Box theatre. I also love going to the events put on by Rowan After Hours and the Student University Programmers. Some of my favorites are the Tuesday movie nights, $10,000 bingo and the food truck festival. You can meet people and have fun with your friend at these free Rowan events.
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
Today, we speak to Alex Rossen, an International Studies major with Jewish Studies and Sociology minors from Westfield, NJ (Union County). Now a senior, Alex is also an on-campus resident who lives in the Townhouses. He tells us more about his junior year and his favorite Rowan moments.
Could you share your favorite moment with a faculty member or a favorite experience in one of your classes?
My favorite memory with a faculty member would have to be with Professor Manning. I first met him my freshman year when I started as an intern working for him, and he’s been a huge mentor for me ever since.
In summer 2019, Dr. Manning led the Rowan Study Abroad trip on Holocaust Memory, which I was on. One day, Dr. Manning was chatting with me and a couple of other students on the trip, and he jokingly said, “Just so you all know, Alex is my favorite student.”
What is the most amazing or interesting thing you’ve learned in your major this year?
I guess I would have to say the most amazing thing I’ve learned this year was meeting [Canadian military officer] General Romeo Dallaire when he came to give the annual CHSS Lecture. I was volunteering to help set up the event and got the chance to meet him before his speech. I really admired his work as a peacekeeping leader in Rwanda and as an advocate for human rights.
When I asked him how he handled all the indifference, ignorance and extremism he’d seen throughout his career, his answer was pretty simple, but also very powerful. He just said, “Don’t blink, stand your ground, young man.”
What pre-professional experiences are helping to support your growth?
I think my time interning for the Rowan Center for the Study of Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights (RCHGHR) was one of the greatest experiences in pre-professional growth I’ve been lucky to have. I applied and got accepted into this internship through the CHSSMatch program. In addition to that internship, I serve as treasurer for the RCHGHR Student Association and am now also starting out as Secretary for the College Democrats at Rowan and Multimedia Editor for The Whit.
All these experiences have helped me work toward personal and professional goals that I feel passionate about in areas like photography and human rights awareness. They’ve also helped me develop as a leader and build valuable professional skills.
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Photos courtesy of:
Alex Rossen
Third-year Psychology major and Urban Studies minor Jeremiah Garcia recently spoke with Rowan Blog about his freshman year experience. Today, the first-generation college student from Camden, NJ (Camden County) residence assistant (RA) offers his tips to new students.
1. When you come to Rowan, make mistakes and learn from them.
2. Recognize that you’re not alone. You get to meet new people with the same goals but different purposes.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when things are hard. During my freshman year, I felt like nobody was there, especially as a first-generation college student, and I blocked myself into a box. I realized there are resources but I was afraid to ask for help. I had a rough start, and I thought that I needed to learn everything myself. Know that it is okay not to be perfect. There are always people with knowledge that you don’t have, and they can help you. The resources Rowan has helped physically and mentally, not just academically. The Wellness Center and Rec Center are great resources too.
4. Step outside of your comfort zone and be the best version of yourself. Being involved helped me to step outside of my comfort zone. Getting involved helped me built confidence and leadership.
5. Don’t beat yourself up if your major isn’t right for you. I wanted to go into the medical field, but I wasn’t passionate about it. I took other opportunities and decided to switch my major to Psychology. Take other opportunities, explore and see what’s right for you.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos contributed by:
Jeremiah Garcia
Looking for a safe space or ways to connect with others on campus? Here are some clubs and organizations available at Rowan to check out!
1. Queer People of Color
Queer People of Color (or QPOC) is a “multi-cultural, LGBTQ+ social group that works to promote well-being, inclusion and diversity to students of all backgrounds,” according to its website.
The club “[aims] to build community and relationships, as well as educate each other about cultural and LGBTQ+ issues. Allies of all walks of life welcome and inclusive to all races, sexual orientations, gender identities, etc.”
To learn more about QPOC and its president, Jahnaya Peyton, watch this video produced by Rowan Blog.
2. Women in Business
According to their website, the Women in Business Club is “a network of professionals committed to empowering, supporting, and guiding the men, and especially women, of Rowan University to achieve success in their future business endeavors.
“With the understanding that women face unique challenges, we strive to inspire learning and communication. Our inclusive programs are dedicated to personal and professional growth through discussions, speakers, and conferences.”
3. Men of Color Alliance
The Men of Color Alliance (MOCA) is a club that aims “to create a safe place,” according to its site.
“As an organization we strive to help educate and change the negative stereotypes placed upon minority men,” says MOCA Director of Outreach Chair Naledge Brown.
“We as an organization give men an outlet to be themselves as well as help provide them tools to function at a high level in today’s world. We also help educate young minority boys on higher education, trade schools, and credit. While also providing them with a ‘big brother,’ they can just talk about anything with (life, sports, etc.),” adds Naledge.
To learn more about MOCA, watch this video produced by Rowan Blog.
4. True Colors at Rowan University
As stated by their site, True Colors is a safer space organization recognized by the Office of Social Justice, Inclusion, and Conflict Resolution. They welcome any and all students from the LGBTQIAAPPD community and its allies. They promote self-care, self-acceptance, and self-expression while providing a safe space for Rowan’s LGBTQ+ community to hang out, discuss issues and meet other community members and allies.
5. Unified Sports Club
According to its Campus Labs page, Rowan United Sports is “where Rowan students (Unified Partners) and Special Olympics athletes come together to play on the same team for soccer in the fall and basketball in the spring.
“The goal of the Rowan Unified Sports Club is to promote friendship and inclusion through sports while still keeping a competitive atmosphere.”
The club offers opportunities to play, coach or volunteer. They “encourage all no matter what walk of life or athletic ability to join us in our Unified family.”
In 2018, ESPN visited Rowan to nationally recognize the Unified Sports Club; watch this special event here.
6. Phi Sigma Pi
“Phi Sigma Pi is a national, gender-inclusive fraternity dedicated to promoting life-long learning, cultivating lasting relationships and offering various leadership opportunities through our core values of Scholarship, Leadership, Fellowship, and Service,” says Eta Mu Chapter President Christina Gentile.
“It is our organization’s mission and personal motto to ‘Improve Humanity with Honor.’ We are an opportunity to meet a diverse group of students on Rowan’s campus that you may not meet otherwise, gain life-long friendships and make memories that you will happily remember long past graduation,” adds Christina.
“We are very passionate about staying involved on campus, fundraising for a variety of organizations, and supporting current events such as our philanthropies, Habitat for Humanity and HOBY, CHOP, the Black Lives Matter movement, and The SHOP on Rowan’s campus.”
7. United Latinos Association
ULA, according to its page, “[is] all about providing a space for people of different cultural backgrounds to celebrate their culture while learning about others. They also work to educate others about issues that the Latino community faces.”
8. South Asian Students Association
A newer organization on campus, the South Asian Students Association (SASA) aims to” foster a community” among South Asian students.
SASA plans to host networking opportunities, formals and service events all centered around “[having] fun while celebrating and spreading our culture.” The organization’s goal is to “be an inclusive community to anyone interested in or a part of South Asian culture.”
9. Prism
“Prism is Rowan’s LGBTQ+ activism organization,” says Prism President Ella Emmer.
“In addition to educating, advocating, and supporting our members, we also provide a safe space for our members to hang out and have fun. Our overarching goal is to create a reality of chosen family between our community, while creating change at the same time,” adds Ella.
To learn more about Ella and Prism, watch this video produced by Rowan Blog.
10. American Sign Language Club
According to its site, the Rowan ASL Club is a unique, fun and interesting club to get involved with! The club “[focuses] on learning some ASL, learning about Deaf culture, helping in the Deaf community, and having a blast doing all of the above!” You do not need prior knowledge of or experience with ASL to join.
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Story by:
Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
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.
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
Today we feature rising sophomore Monica A. Torres. Monica is a Computer Science major with a concentration in Software Engineering from Jersey City, NJ (Hudson County). Monica is an on-campus resident. She lived in Evergreen Hall during her freshman year, and now will be living in the Edgewood Park Apartments for her sophomore year. Monica is a first-generation college student.
What did you most enjoy during your freshman year at Rowan?
The thing I enjoyed the most was getting a feel for everything. There are a lot of activities set up for freshmen not only for them to have fun, but for them to get a feel for the campus. One, for example, is Welcome Week, where many students from all grades come together to enjoy each other’s company and welcome the freshman and new transfer students to campus. I enjoyed meeting new people and seeing that Rowan is very diverse.
Could you share a happy moment you had with friends, professors, or other members of the Rowan community that made you realize Rowan felt like home?
One of my favorite memories was getting to know my roommate. We were familiar with each other through PCI (Pre-College Institute), aka EOF (Educational Opportunity Fund), over the summer, but we didn’t really talk. However, once I got to know her, we had a lot in common, and exploring campus with her was fun. I’m from Jersey City, so to have someone who is from South Jersey as a close friend is great, because we get to compare North Jersey and South Jersey.
What advice do you have for future freshmen looking at colleges right now?
My advice to future freshmen is that it isn’t about getting a good grade, it’s about understanding the material for your major. In addition, it’s okay to not know what you wanna study right off the bat because that is what advisors are for. They are there to help you explore and find a major that suits you.
What are you most looking forward to next year at Rowan?
I can’t wait for some of my friends from home to come to Rowan. I can show them around and help them get around. Plus, it means the friend group on campus gets bigger. It will be nice to have a few familiar faces from home on campus, to be honest, because I won’t be as homesick.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, rising sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Today we feature Michael Camacho, a Biological Sciences major with a minor in Psychology. He is a first-generation college student who commutes from his home in Pine Hill, NJ (Camden County).
What is your favorite moment with a faculty member or favorite experience in one of your classes? 
My favorite part was going to my Microbiology class and learning from Dr. Elizabeth Brooks. She taught her lectures in such a manner that not only excited me to learn, but also intrigued me. She has over 30 years of experience in her field and still has this spark of passion in her that is truly remarkable and inspiring to me. One day I hope to walk in her footsteps and become the passionate, caring, professional, and inspiring person that she is.
What is the most amazing or interesting thing you’ve learned in your major this year?
I’d say the most amazing and interesting thing I’ve learned in my major is that the human body truly is amazing in that the physiology protects us every day.
What pre-professional experiences are helping to support your growth? 
Some of my pre-professional experiences include the Minority Association of Premedical Students (MAPS) and Rowan’s Biology Club. Though, the one organization that has truly supported my growth is Alpha Phi Omega (APO).
We are an organization that strives by our principles of being a leader, being a friend, and being of service. Being surrounded by these individuals has truly made it feel like a second home and seeing the passion in each of us to be of service to our community is one of the many reasons why I enjoy APO so much.
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Welcome to our new “Rowan Commuter” series, where we take an inside look at the lives and experiences of Rowan University commuters and how their overall college experience is without living on campus.
In this video, Edelman College of Communication and Creative Arts double-major Kayla Santiago talks about how she balances a busy schedule with being a commuter student here at Rowan.
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Video by:
Tom Copsetta, radio/TV/film graduate
Today’s story is from Devon Graf, a recent Communications Studies graduate from 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.
Some incoming college students may wonder: How am I going to make friends? It’s one of the highest worries around. Incoming students may be used to having all of their home town friends that they went to school with for many years, and now everyone is splitting up to go away to different universities.
My incoming freshman year I joined a Rowan Students Facebook group. I think that was my best decision. After going to Rowan’s open house and being put into groups that we did activities with, I met a couple of students, and we switched telephone numbers. After that, they added me to this Facebook group that had hundreds of incoming freshman. By reaching out and posting in this page and connecting on different social media platforms, I was able to get into touch and build relationships even before the semester started.
Well, it didn’t end there! Once the semester progressed I joined a lot of clubs. Rowan offers a numerous amount of clubs where you can team bond, socialize and participate in different activities. My favorite club I joined was Volunteer Club. With doing this, I ended up being a tutor at South Woods State Prison and met a couple of friends I still have close friendships with today.
Rowan After Hours was also a great opportunity to make friends. The wonderful thing about that would be going with the friends I had, and meeting new ones! So the group friendship expanded. RAH would hold fun nights such as BINGO night or movie night. So my college experience didn’t always have to be about going out to parties every night and trying to socialize that way.
Although, going out was also a fun way to make friends. Rush sorority events were a great way to socialize, meet new people and personalities. I remember meeting girls from towns over, and states over. I met my roommates from doing this.
Whether you’re worried about meeting friends, or nervous to go out and socialize, don’t be. You’re not the only one in the same boat. I was nervous myself, and so were the girls I’m best friends with today. It just takes a little courage and a positive attitude.
Be yourself! Join groups and clubs, participate in activities at Rowan, and you will have a great time meeting your friend group.
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Story and photos by:
Devon Graf, communication studies graduate
School is out and summer vacation is in! What sweet treat goes hand-in-hand with the summer time? Ice cream! Hanging out in the Glassboro area? Check out these ice cream shops that are within 20 miles from campus!
Whether you’re looking for a meal or just a sweet treat, Alaura’s is the place to stop in downtown Pitman. They change their menu weekly, so there’s tons of flavors to choose from, even dietary options! The Belgian fries are a must.
The best homemade ice cream in town! Dippy’s is great and has a variety of flavors to choose from! Their blueberry flavor is a jersey iconic. Blueberry will make your mouth water with delight and feel reminiscent of the South Jersey native fruit.
3. Scoopy’s Ice Cream and Water Ice, Sewell, NJ
Looking for your carnival favorites? Scoopy’s offers more than just your classic scoop. From Dole Whip to their arctic swirl to a classic sundae, you won’t be disappointed!
4. Cono’s Pizza and Ice Cream, Glassboro, NJ
Walking back from class? Grab a slice and scoop on your way back! Located behind Rowan Boulevard, this shop will have you visiting every day! And did we mention their pizzas come in cones?
5. Yogo Factory, Glassboro, NJ
Not completely feeling ice cream today? Stop by the Yogo Factory for some sweet frozen yogurt on Rowan Boulevard. Add your own toppings and pay with your Rowan Bucks! Yogo Factory is definitely a Prof’s favorite!
6. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Sewell, NJ
Bruster’s is the place to hang out with your friends where everyone can get what they want! Their ice cream pies are truly one of a kind and to die for!
7. Reggina Gelato and Espresso Bar, Mullica Hill, NJ
Reggina’s is the best place to stop for some Italian sweets. They have all your favorites, gelato, cannolis and more! Make sure you try their strawberry lemonade and mascarpone!
8. Stio’s Water Ice and Ice Cream, Washington Township, NJ
Who doesn’t love family owned businesses? You’ll feel a part of the family after the first bite! Skip the line and order online! You’ll need to take your time picking from their delicious hand dipped flavors!
9. Twin Kiss Drive In, Clayton, NJ
Looking for both salty and sweet? Stop by Twin Kiss to grab a pretzel and some ice cream! You’ll love their outdoor seating area!
10. Mueller’s Ice Cream and Fruit Freezz, Deptford Township, NJ
You’ll feel transported to the Jersey shore boardwalk the second you lay eyes on the menu. Order funnel cake, ice cream floats, and choose from 24 flavors of soft serve. They’re known for their Fruit Freezz drinks. They are formulated with fresh fruit juice and the pulp will definitely get stuck in your teeth in the best way possible.
Due to COVID-19, these shops are all currently available for take-out only. Got more suggestions? Share a picture of your favorite place using #IceCreamforRowan!
Story by:
Camryn Hadley, junior
Kailey Bertelsen, senior
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Today’s story is from Devon Graf, a recent communications studies graduate 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.
Volunteering at Rowan University has been such a wonderful and rewarding experience. Are you looking to make friends? Help out the community? Feel good about yourself? I would recommend joining the Volunteer Club at Rowan.
It’s also important in other ways. Volunteering is important as it offers essential help to worthwhile causes, people in need and the wider community. Indeed, many organizations and charities rely on the generosity of volunteers as often they’re only partially-funded through government or local councils and cannot afford to pay salaries for all their staff. In fact, many companies depend almost solely upon teams of volunteers (like you!) to help them thrive and do their work.
If you’re feeling bored, isolated or simply want to widen your social circle, volunteering for Rowan is an important – and often fun – way to meet new people. In fact, one of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to commit to a shared activity together, and volunteering lets you do just that.
What kind of volunteer options does Rowan offer? Many! Some of my favorites have been playing bingo at our local senior citizens center, helping out the local ASPCA animal shelter, and even taking a bus over to Camden to help serve food to the homeless and less fortunate at Cathedral Soup Kitchen. I even volunteered to be a tutor at South Woods State Prison.
Every volunteer event is meaningful and impacted my life positively. The look on the senior citizens’ faces to have someone young sitting next to them to play bingo is priceless. The animals I got to walk for a couple hours at the animal shelter felt loved. The prisoners I got to teach mathematics to and socialize with felt important. The greatest reward I have ever felt is donating at the soup kitchen and passing out hot cooked meals to families in need.
Doing good for others and our community helps to create a sense of accomplishment. And working as a volunteer can also gave me a sense of pride and identity, helping to boost my self-confidence further by taking me out of my natural comfort zone and environment. It was also an escape from the typical school day. I was able to wake up and volunteer in the mornings for a couple of hours and then go to my classes. The volunteer event schedule has numerous days and times to apply yourself. I noticed that volunteering boosted my mental health simply because it made me happier: the so-called “helper’s high.”
So next semester, try it out. Volunteering is a win-win situation all around. Reach out to the Volunteer Club and Rowan University if you have any questions or would like to learn more.
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Story by:
Devon Graf, Communication Studies graduate
Rowan University Volunteer Website
Today we feature sophomore Health Promotion & Wellness Management major Hajah Carpenter. She is a first-generation college student from Somerdale, NJ (Camden County). Before campus closed due to COVID-19, Hajah lived in the Rowan Boulevard Apartments.
How are you getting the most out of your college experience?
I’m getting the most out of my experience at Rowan by trying to participate, get involved and take walks on beautiful days. I really appreciate Rowan’s campus and how beautiful it is.
What are you learning socially and academically about yourself?
I am learning about how much I love to work and communicate with people! I love to help others, whether it’s with schoolwork or being someone to talk to!
How have you grown as a person since coming to Rowan?
Rowan has helped prepare me for the outside world and has made me very excited for my future! My ideas for the future have grown and I’m excited to continue in my education! My major has inspired me to hopefully open up my own gym one day!
What experiences have you enjoyed the most at Rowan?
I love all the events Rowan runs in the Student Center!
How do you get involved on campus?
I get involved by attending events on campus, and being a part of the Club Lacrosse team!
How have you made friends and continue to make friends?
I have many many friends at Rowan who I love dearly. I have met some friends from Willow Hall, where I lived my freshman year! I also like to keep in contact with people I have done group projects or been in classes with! I have made a good amount of my friends in study groups I join for my classes too.
How do you create that “away” at school experience while close to home?
My friends have become my family here at Rowan, so I feel at home here.
Why Rowan?
Rowan has always had a good reputation while I was growing up! My family is from Glassboro, and watching the ‘boro be built up to what it is now has been amazing!
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, rising sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Recent grad Julia McAleavey shares guidance through this advice column for incoming students. A student with well-rounded experience, Julia earned a bachelor’s in advertising. She transferred to Rowan her sophomore year, after another school wasn’t a great fit. While at Rowan she started as an exploratory studies major, unsure of what to major in. She’s lived both on campus and off campus, held student worker jobs and internships, and participated in clubs and sports.
There are a lot of things about starting college that can be absolutely terrifying. One of those things is worrying about finding friends. I’ve got some good news for you: you are not the only person anxious about this. Every college first year or new transfer is worried about not making any friends. Here are some ways to help you come out of your comfort zone and break that fear of never finding friends.
Get out of your room.
When first moving in, you might not know what to really do with yourself besides sit in your room and watch television. Or, if you commute, you might just drive to campus and back home after class. I know this is a crazy time for you and it’s so easy to get stuck inside, but do not do this! Friends are not just going to magically appear at your door. Sure, you might have been friends with your roommate already, but you both need other friends so you do not get sick of living with each other.
A good start would be to go to the events that your resident assistant sets up at the beginning of the semester, or make a point to go to the September organization fair, where there are tons of tables of people representing their clubs and organizations. This way, you get out of your room (or car), and get to know some of the people.
Go to first-year student events.
At the beginning of the semester, there will be some events to attend for new students to get to know each other. Rowan After Hours (RAH) has a lot of fun, late-night events to get students to interact with one another. They might sound lame at first, but don’t let that keep you from going. You might even meet your best friends there. Plus, there is usually free food of some kind, and it’s hard to say no to that, right?
Two words: Get. Involved.
This is HUGE! Many first year and new transfers go into college not wanting to get involved because they are afraid they will fall behind on school work or won’t fit in. Yes, it is true you are at Rowan for a degree, but getting involved in something will help you to make friends and professional connections. I joined the Swim Club and it introduced me to my best friends.
There are a lot of activity fairs at the beginning of each semester to share information about different clubs and organizations. Look out for these dates so you can find the perfect fit for you.
I’m going to be completely honest with you — college can sometimes feel like a lonely place. You might feel sad and overwhelmed and might even just want to go home. But once you find a great group of friends everything will fall into place.
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Story by:
Julia McAleavey, advertising graduate
Today we feature incoming freshman Alex Micharski, a Computer Science major with a Math minor from Hamilton, 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? Or something new you’d like to try?
I spent a lot of my time in high school in FIRST Robotics and spent four years on the football team: two years as a player, and due to academic constraints and an internship in my junior and senior years, I became a student manager on the football team, filming games and occasionally calling plays. Although I wasn’t too happy when I had to step down from being a player, I will be graduating high school with 61 college credits with the decision that I made. While I was at the STEM Academy, I had a debut on the morning announcements starting from my freshman year lasting until my junior year, where I cracked jokes over the loudspeaker and laughed harder at my jokes than anybody else.
How/why did you choose your major?
I chose Computer Science to be my major because I have been into programming and information technology since I was 11 years old.
What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?
Next year at Rowan, I am looking forward to doing many new things. This might surprise you, but I am a boater. My family just bought a new boat and we named it “Unsinkable II.” The best thing about Unsinkable II is the glass bottom, which allows us to see Unsinkable I every time we’re out on the water. I am also hoping to try out some intramural sports like football and lacrosse (I also played lacrosse in high school for a year and spent more time in the penalty box and on the bench for slashes than I did playing). Another thing that I am looking forward to doing at Rowan is looking to run a morning podcast where I talk about life, Rowan events, and stuff going on around us. I also heard about open mic nights on campus, and I might give one a shot.
Why did you choose Rowan?
I chose Rowan University for a few reasons. The first reason is the low tuition. The second reason is because their Computer Science program is about to explode in size. The third reason is because of its location. Rowan is far enough where I can live on my own, but also not too far where if something happened, I could go back home without a problem. And the last reason, which is certainly not the least, is because it’s close to Philadelphia, which is where the Eagles play (sorry Giants fans). I am hoping to meet a lot of new people, learn new things, and see where life takes me.
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Photos courtesy of:
Alex Micharski
Pexels
Today’s story is from Melanie Sbaraglio, a senior public relations and advertising double major social-distancing from her house in Nutley, NJ (Essex County). Melanie joined the Rowan Blog team to wrap up her remaining internship hours, after her internship with Ace Screen Printing in Glassboro was cut short due to COVID-19 affecting business.
Many people recognize Greek life for its social aspects however, coming from experience there is a lot more to it. Gaining professional skills is a very valuable thing that Greek life provides. For instance, having a position within your sorority or fraternity, such as being on the executive board, can teach you a lot. There are also a lot of positions across the organization that are very important.
I was the merchandise chair for my sorority, Alpha Sigma Tau, this semester. My role was to design and place orders for apparel that represented our sorority during events. This position taught me a lot because I was able to practice time management, staying organized, and working with other people. A lot of the positions within Greek life relate back to your major as well. Someone interested in accounting could become the financial chair and keep track of the budget. There is also a public relations chair who runs our sorority’s social media. Any of these positions can be great to put on a resume in the future to show a potential employer you have experience.
Even if you don’t have a position within your organization you are still learning skills just by participating in events and meetings. Weekly chapter meetings are basically business meetings to discuss and plan for future events.
Sorority recruitment also taught me a lot because I experienced both sides of it, as a recipient and as an organizer. It teaches you networking skills and gives you the confidence to be able to go into a room and start up a conversation with anyone. Gaining that kind of confidence will help you in the future with things like job interviews and working with new people.
I would recommend Greek life to anyone because it is definitely something great to be a part of while also getting the benefits of learning professional skills along the way.
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Story and photographs by:
Melanie Sbaraglio, senior public relations and advertising major
Rowan Blog produced this video pre-quarantine.
Join us as we visit a meeting of the student-run Rowan University Anime Club.
You don’t even have to watch anime to join Anime Club, which its members describe as “inclusive,” “open” and “accepting.” Students with little to advanced anime knowledge will find a community here.
Anime Club meets in Robinson Hall.
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Video by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
Tom Copsetta, senior radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Bianca Torres, junior music industry major
Welcome to our 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 COVID-19. Today’s story is from Devon Graf, a senior Communication Studies major isolating from her home in Gloucester County, NJ.
Currently with too much time on some of our hands at home, we may not know where to begin. I’m here to give you some top Netflix shows around. While being at home, this can be a great time to sit around with family and start a new series! Let’s get to it!!
1. Dexter
2. Black Mirror
3. When They See Us
4. Dead To Me
5. The Umbrella Academy
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Story by:
Devon Graf, senior communication studies major
Header photo courtesy of:
Pixabay
Rowan Blog produced this video pre-quarantine.
Join us as we visit a local, student-run Super Smash Brothers tournament.
Super Smash Bros is a fighting game made by Nintendo featuring a plethora of classic Nintendo characters that can be fun for everyone. Although it isn’t a school event, the tournament takes place every Friday afternoon in James Hall, Room 2096.
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Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Noel Waldron, senior advertising major
Music by:
Tommy Bell, senior music industry major
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 Camryn Hadley, a junior isolating in her house in Somerset County, NJ. As we walk through the Student Center into the Student Government Association office, Camryn answers questions about her major, jobs on-campus, and leadership positions. Rowan Blog captured this footage pre-quarantine.
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Video by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
Brad Johnson is a Chemical Engineering alumnus from the Class of 2016, from Langhorne, PA (Bucks County). Brad was part of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society, University Orchestra, String Ensemble and Republican Club. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate for the Department of Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.
What inspired you to choose Chemical Engineering?
“In high school I was interested in chemistry and, in particular, physics. I was drawn to engineering in general because of its hands-on nature and emphasis on applying scientific principles to improve the world.”
What would you share with a future student interested in Chemical Engineering?
“Chemical engineering unit operations and processes are pretty cool. There are so many inventive ways to transport, transform, separate and combine different materials.”
How does your field impact the world? What impact would you like to have on the world in your field?
“Chemical engineers have a hand in developing and producing almost anything you can imagine: energy, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food and advanced materials to name a few. We excel at process modeling, utilizing math, chemistry and physics to create products in a safe and economical fashion.
“My sub-field is process systems engineering. We develop and apply rigorous mathematical optimization and modeling methods to improve the design, operation and control of chemical engineering processes.”
Can you share a current research project you’re working on?
“I’m currently developing computationally efficient dynamic models for powder flow in pharmaceutical drug product continuous manufacturing. For example, one model leverages our knowledge of powder properties to predict how fast a powder can be fed through different screw feeders and under different process conditions. Predictive models can speed up a new drug’s time to market by reducing the need for experimental data to begin process development.”
What is your biggest academic/career accomplishment so far?
“Successfully proposing my thesis, ‘Theory and Application in Best Subset Selection and Constrained Regression,’ last September.”
Tell us about your transition into graduate school and how you pushed through any challenges.
“The biggest difference between undergraduate coursework and graduate research is the switch from solving curated, self-contained problems with well-tested methods to having to pose your own problems and solutions with no guarantee they will work. This difference, in part, made it challenging to transition my strong undergraduate work ethic into my graduate work. To combat this, I’ve scheduled a period of time each day to focus on meeting small research goals. This helps me keep momentum even when unexpected challenges arise.”
Do you have any plans after graduation?
“I don’t have firm plans for after graduation. In the future, I hope to continue developing technical software and algorithms. I’d also like to help teach the next generation of engineers.”
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Story by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
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
Rowan Reset is our self-care series of laid-back videos to view as you go about your day — play as you study, nap, practice self-care or just veg out.
Meet the adorable, sleepy cats of one Rowan Prof’s household.
Harrison (white/tabby), Simon (skinnier gray), Priya (fluffy), Jingle (not-so-skinny gray) and Gouda (jet black) enjoy their mid-day sunny nap. Interested in a furry companion? Local rescues are in need of fosters during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out to your local organizations to temporarily take in a cat. Most rescues/shelters cover all expenses — food, litter, veterinary — you just supply the space and the love!
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Through Rowan University’s Office of Volunteerism, students mingle and make new furry friends while volunteering at the Salem County Humane Society. Volunteer tasks include cleaning cages, setting out food and water, and socializing the animals.
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Video by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
Music by:
Louis Testa III, junior music composition major
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1IHUltuWrI
Sophomore computer science major Jehu Ananoria feels most at home at Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship. As a resident of Sussex County, NJ, Jehu moved nearly three hours away from home to come to Rowan.
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Video by:
Peter Planamente & Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism majors
After completing two years at Atlantic Cape Community College, I decided to transfer over to Rowan University to get my bachelor’s in Journalism. Transferring over to a new school can be both exciting and intimidating. You’ll get to create new memories, meet new people and experience new opportunities.
At community college I was involved in many extracurricular activities, like being part of the communication club and assistant editor for the Atlantic Cape Review. For me, getting involved has always been important. It improves leadership and interpersonal skills, but most importantly, it gives students practical experience.
When I first transferred to Rowan, I did not know anyone, but I immediately felt welcomed by all my professors and classmates. I knew I wanted to get involved and create new memories, just like I did at my community college.
I started asking other students what they were involved in, and I checked Rowan’s Student Organization Services page, where I found clubs and organizations that caught my attention. There are many ways to get involved — you’ve just got to be open to new experiences and opportunities.
Here are three ways I’ve gotten involved as a transfer student and commuter.
These are just three ways how I have gotten involved here at Rowan, but there are so many other ways to get involved. It’s all about being open to new experiences and being OK with getting out of your comfort zone.
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Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major
Rowan Reset is our Self-Care Sunday series of laid-back videos you can view as you go about your day — play as you study, nap, practice self-care or just veg out. Choose. Play. Reset.
Noel deep cleans her plants every January, but this time she is helped by a cat!
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Video by:
Noel Waldron, senior advertising major
Music by:
Gabe Georges, music industry alumnus
Rowan Reset is our Self-Care Sunday series of laid-back videos you can view as you go about your day — play as you study, nap, practice self-care or just veg out. Choose. Play. Reset.
Noel and Gabe go for a winter hike with the very good boy, Rain.
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Video by:
Noel Waldron, senior advertising major
Rowan Reset is our Self-Care Sunday series of laid-back videos you can view as you go about your day — play as you study, nap, practice self-care or just veg out. Choose. Play. Reset.
Just some good boys hangin’ out in the good boy park!
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Video by:
Noel Waldron, senior advertising major
Music by:
Joseph Murphy, senior music industry major
Noel Waldron walks you through her process of making lavender coffee in the morning, featuring her roommate’s cat, Cthulhu.
The Rowan PROS (Peer Referral and Orientation Staff) share their favorite things about our campus and tips for starting out at Rowan. From socializing tips to where to eat on campus, the PROS have it all.
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Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Destiny Sheard, a senior Marketing major from Jackson, NJ (Ocean County) and a first-generation college student, feels most at home at the barn with the Equestrian Club.
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Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Jayce Williams, senior music industry major
Meet Matthew Penn, a junior at Rowan who majors in Advertising 
and says video games have played an important role in his life since he was very young.
By the time I was in third grade, I was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, a form of autism that primarily affects an individual’s social skills, from poor eye contact to social isolation.
Since I was very young I have always had an interest in video games and they’ve always been my comfort. For the longest time I never really wanted to leave my house until I started to meet friends who shared similar interests in video games just like me. Since coming to Rowan University I’ve never felt more comfortable. The Game Room in the Student Center is such an amazing place for me to go, where I can be myself or play video games with so many people.
When I’m at the Game Room, I forget that I even have Asperger syndrome and I believe that the Game Room is perfect for anyone looking to make some new friends.
The Game Room offers all students many great games to play — not just video games, but plenty of regular games as well, including billiards, shuffleboard, ping pong, foosball, darts and plenty of board games. There are approximately six video game consoles: two Nintendo Switches, two Xbox Ones and two Playstation 4s. There are plenty of choices for video games to play and plenty of people to talk to and possibly play a couple games with.
The overall design of the Game Room is very inviting. When a you first enter, you see a great mural on the wall signifying this is the room for anyone looking to play some games and have some fun. The first section of the room is comprised of billiards tables and a mini shuffleboard table. After that you will be greeted with a large selection of video games. You’re more than likely to see a group of students playing a video game, and any student is more than welcome to ask any group of students if they can join in. However, if video games aren’t quite your thing, there are plenty of board games and tabletop games such as foosball, ping pong and air hockey.
Things are very upbeat and exciting here with plenty of events and tournaments. Tournaments range from multiple genres of video games, including fighting games, first-person shooters and sports games. However, it’s not limited to just video game tournaments. The Game Room offers a few distinctive and simplistic tournaments as well such as Jenga tournaments and even classic arcade game tournaments such as Dig Dug.
The Game Room has a very symmetrical worldview when it comes to how it runs things. The staff here are very open to the idea of bringing in new features events to keep the Game Room exciting. At the front desk there’s a jar where students can write down their ideas to what they would like to see added, whether it be different events or even offering additional classic video game consoles.
The Game Room is very open to looking into any and every student opinion to see what can be done to keep people happy who walk through those doors and come back every day.
If you don’t really know where to start to meet other gamer students, this is the perfect place to start. If you have any kind of social anxiety, asking to join in a group of people playing a video game is a perfect starting point. With tons of games to play and a large quantity of people to talk to, social interaction is impossible to avoid.
There’s no doubt about it, college can be very stressful with all the assignments and the pressure of tests and finals. The Game Room is the perfect place for students to reduce stress. Here you can forget about your busy life for an hour or two and enjoy some games for a while. Having a place where you can go to take some time off is great, whether it be playing any of the games or just sitting down and taking some time to spend with your thoughts.
In the time that I’ve been at Rowan University, the Game Room has been my go-to place to hang out, to take some time away from all the work I have or just a nice spot for when I’m just having a really bad day. I hope other students will have similar experiences as mine and I hope that it can help them get over their social anxiety and help relieve their stress from school as much as it did for me.
Story by:
Matthew Penn, junior advertising major
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#PROFspective: Bio Major Alyssa Putiri Talks Campus Life, Diversity of Clubs
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.
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 
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
On Dec. 6, 2019, in partnership with Kingsway Church, Glassboro held its annual “Boro in Lights Festival.” Entertainment included a tree lighting ceremony, carriage rides, a live sculptor, photos with Santa, live music performances, free food, and an animal pet show all in the Glassboro Town Square and along Rowan Boulevard from 6-9 p.m.
Local businesses attended to give away free items (I got lightup reindeer antlers).
Rowan University’s Student Government Association (SGA) attended the event for its “Stuff the Bus” fundraiser. SGA members collected food items, hygiene products and winter apparel for The SHOP, Rowan’s student food pantry and resource center.
I definitely recommend checking out next year’s festival!
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Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
Ten toes in. This is the motto of First-Year Connection: Leadership, and how I tried to live during my transition into college. For me, this meant getting as involved as possible to meet a lot of people and get acclimated to campus.
The first home I found on campus was First Year Connection: Leadership (FCL). This is a four-day program for freshmen and transfer students that focuses on kickstarting your leadership journey at Rowan. This program allowed me to move into Mimosa, my freshman dorm, early, which really set me up for success here at Rowan. By the time the semester started, I had 40 new friends and was all moved in! FCL also jump-started my leadership Rowan career, where I am currently working on my Bronze Leadership Certificate. I still hang out with these people now, even though FCL ended months ago!
The second group that I joined at Rowan is Student University Programmers (SUP). SUP is a group that makes programs and events happen for students by students here at Rowan. One of the FCL mentors is the president of SUP, and my RA is the Director of Charitable Events for SUP, and they really encouraged me to join. I don’t attend every event or meeting, but when I do they are always super friendly.
Joining Rowan’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America, a national pre-professional organization, and PRaction, Rowan’s student-run public relations firm, also helped me in my transition to Rowan.
Being on a team for a PRaction client as a freshman really makes me feel like I am going to be professionally prepared after leaving Rowan. I am learning about the profession that I would like to go into, so I can be sure that public relations is actually what I want to do.
My team on-campus is the Crew Club team. We are an up-and-coming club that welcomes people of any skill level in rowing. We are working toward earning enough money to buy a boat so that we can start competing. We are preparing to compete by working out, erging (rowing on a machine) and team bonding. I have found the members of the crew team to be my closest friends on campus. We are always looking for reasons to be together!
All of these clubs are family because they have helped me transition into having a successful start at Rowan. However, my college experience would be very different if I didn’t live on campus. My RA has been amazing with helping me through everything from roommate issues to how to use the laundry machine. My floormates are also becoming like family to me as well. I am so thankful to have this experience living on campus with them.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, freshman public relations major
Photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
Today, we speak with Brianna Nghiem, a junior Biological Sciences major from Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County) who lives on-campus. Brianna 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: Brianna Nghiem
Major: Biological Sciences (3+4 BS/DO Program)
Minors and concentrations: Bantivoglio Honors Concentration in the Honors College
Year: Junior
Hometown and County: Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County)
Resident: Yes, I live in 220 Rowan Boulevard
Academic clubs: Bantivoglio Leadership and Service Training Program (Mentor)
Social clubs you are a part of: Vietnamese Student Association (President)
Share an “aha!” moment you’ve had within your major that made you feel passionate about your intended field. One moment in my major that made me feel passionate about my intended field was in my Intro to Cellular Biology class with Dr. [Gregory] Eaton. Learning about the different cellular processes in life and its complexity was an extraordinary experience. Although I have always known that I wanted to go to medical school, this class truly furthered my love for medicine.
Describe an experience you’ve shared with a professor in which you felt like you were working with a visionary in your field. When I was a freshman, I had a biology professor who I was very intimidated by on the first day of college. However, upon getting to know him during class and visits to office hours, it was apparent that he truly cared for his students and genuinely wanted us to all succeed academically and personally. Over the semester, he helped me develop proper study habits, manage my stress and ease my transition to college. He really helped to shape me into the student I am today. I have nothing but appreciation to have had him as a professor.
Describe an on-campus experience (academic or non-academic) in which you felt that your future goals are supported. When I was in high school, I was the President of my school’s Vietnamese Culture Club, where I developed passions for my culture as a Vietnamese American. During Summer 2017, as I was about to enter college, I always aspired to start a Vietnamese organization at Rowan with similar values to my high school club. The mission was to have an organization where interested students can unite and appreciate the beauty of the Vietnamese culture and traditions.
By fall 2018, three other students (Catherine Nguyen, Jessica Do, Jessica Liu) and I worked together to form the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA). Dr. Thanh Nguyen, our advisor, has been incredibly supportive with this journey and with all of VSA’s goals. I am so blessed to have met such amazing individuals who are my biggest supporters and who constantly push me to become a better person of myself. As a result, VSA has made me realize my true potential and capabilities as a leader, as well as becoming my platform to connect with and provide support to others.
Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you? Through the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA), I was able to meet a family of unique yet compatible individuals, each of whom I am so grateful for. VSA embodies empowerment, inclusivity and cultural advocacy. Over this past year, VSA has become an outlet and safe space for not only my creativity, but also for my growth as an individual. The people I have met through VSA have helped mold me into the person I am today. I’m so privileged and honored to go through this journey in celebrating such a beautiful culture with them. Everyone in VSA has made me feel at home at Rowan.
Why did you choose Rowan? While I was applying to colleges, I had a close friend who was completing his education at Rowan. He shared with me his experiences and all of the wonderful opportunities he received through Rowan. As I researched more, I found that Rowan would provide me the best college experience in preparing me for medical school. The 3+4 BS/DO Program with Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine allows me to receive my bachelor’s degree and medical degree in seven years. Being here, I have met a community who is incredibly supportive of my dream and passion in becoming a physician. Deciding to come to Rowan was one of the best decisions I could have ever made.
What’s your favorite thing about your typical Monday at Rowan? My favorite thing about a typical Monday at Rowan are the Executive Board meetings for the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA). Normally, our E-board meets on Monday mornings and everyone brings their favorite breakfast foods. At the meeting, we eat together, plan for upcoming events and bond with each other. My goals during these E-board meetings are not just to plan for events, but also to have time to connect and support each other on a personal level. VSA is more than a just club, it is family!
On your busiest day, what academic, non-academic and social responsibilities are you juggling? Along with a full course load, I am currently studying for the MCAT, which I plan on taking in January. On a typical day, after doing MCAT practice, I usually take time in preparing for Vietnamese Student Association events, where each task varies depending on the upcoming meeting. In addition, I am a mentor for the Bantivoglio Leadership and Service Training (BLAST) Program, where I have the privilege of mentoring first-year students in the Honors College. My hope is not only guide them, but also to encourage and support them in the best way I can. Lastly, as a Music Director of the South Jersey Vietnamese Alliance Church, I spend a portion of my day coordinating plans in preparation for the next weeks.
Interested in joining the Vietnamese Student Association? Follow them on Instagram to get connected!
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Story and photography by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
Meet Mary Gomez, an international freshman student from The Republic of The Gambia. This is her second semester at Rowan University. She is currently majoring in Community Health from the School of Health Professions. Today she will share with us her experience on becoming an international student and how Rowan has become her second home.
Name: Mary Gomez 
Major: Community Health
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Washington Township
Resident: Triad
Academic clubs: African Student Association, Leadership Rowan and Public Health.
As an international student, where are you coming from? I’m from The Republic of The Gambia. We call it the smiling coast of Africa.
How did you hear about Rowan? My uncle works here, Dr. Banutu-Gomez, he’s a business professor. Last year, I was kind of confused on which schools to look into, and my mom was like ‘Oh, your uncle works at Rowan.’ He told us about Rowan, and then I started the application process.
Why did you choose to come to Rowan? First, I chose to come to Rowan because the application process was so easy to fill out. Other schools can be complicated and hard to know where to find information. Sometimes, you have to call 10 times just to talk to someone. But here, the application process was so easy to do. Every information I needed was online, like literally everything.
As an international student, you can imagine I can’t keep calling every time. They [Rowan] had the live chat right there, so I could talk to pretty much anyone. It’s pretty expensive to call from an international phone number to the U.S. so the live chat was perfect, and the people were so nice from the international center. I was like, ‘This is definitely the right school for me.’
What else caught your attention about Rowan? The school was pretty diverse. I’m from Africa and in Africa we always treat each other like family, and we are all about feeling welcomed. So, I wanted to be in a place where people were welcoming and where I wouldn’t feel left out.
Also, I’m a twin. So, I was looking for a school that had both majors we wanted. A major that would go into biochemistry for my sister and public health for me.
Tell us about one moment that made you feel like Rowan was the right fit for you. After I applied to Rowan and came here, I didn’t have any friends at all. But I got enrolled in this class called Rowan 101 and my professor was Jessica Syed. She basically made me fall in love with this school. In the class we had to go to five events and write about them. When I started going to these events, I got to meet so many people. And Professor Syed got people from the Rowan Leadership program to come talk to the class and from then I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is the correct school for me,’ because I’m all about leadership and public speaking. And that’s when I knew Rowan was for me. I recommend any student that comes here to take Rowan 101.
Favorite thing about Rowan? One thing I like about Rowan is that you can go to any event, and if you 
don’t know anyone at the event you come back knowing about 10 people. There was one time I went to this event, I think the African Student Association hosted it, I didn’t know anyone — at the end of the day I knew like 10 different people. I didn’t feel like an international student anymore. Everyone is included here; all the opportunities are for everyone.
What’s your biggest life goal? Since I’m studying public health, my biggest life goal is to be able to change the healthcare system in my country. I want an institution where no one has to say ‘I’m not going to the hospital because I don’t have money.’ I don’t want money to be the reason why people don’t have access to healthcare. Afterwards, I want to go into global health and probably work with the United Nations and improve the healthcare system at large, so after helping my country I want to go bigger.
Any advice for international students? I would tell them not to be afraid to ask questions. That’s one limitation I used to have during my first weeks. I used to worry about what people would think if I was asking a question, but don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask as many questions as you can. And for your accent, don’t let your accent be a barrier and don’t ever worry about how you speak. Nobody really cares, as far as you can get your information out there.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major
This article is part of a running series with Rowan University’s Wellness Center. This collaboration aims to educate students about personal well-being options. For further updates, follow @RowanUWellness on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook. Meet Allison Niemiec, a first year graduate student in the Higher Education Administrative Track program, who wrote this article because cosplay has been […]
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 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 
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!
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story and photography by:
Adam Goskowsky, junior advertising major
Just last week, a friend and I were cooped up in the house with nothing to do. So we decided to take a drive around Glassboro to see what we can get into. We had a craving for fresh fruit, but didn’t want to risk the chances of buying bad fruit from a grocery store. New Jersey is full of produce stands and we knew there had to be a good one around campus.
To our surprise on Greentree Road just behind the ShopRite is a quant little farmer’s market. We decide to pull over to check it out and we ended up very pleasantly surprised. Watermelon, cherries, avocados, bananas, corn, tomatoes, peaches, nectarines, plums, pears, apples, peppers, zucchini — any fresh produce you could possibly want! Rowand’s Farm is a produce stand that sells only locally grown fruits and vegetables without breaking the bank.
Rowand’s offers a variety of fresh produce and the opportunity to pick your own strawberries! Sunday through Friday the market is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, they are not open on Saturdays. Fortunately the market recently opened for the season and will be open until October. Once the fall rolls around the market will have a larger assortment of fresh vegetables as well.
The best part is that the market is less than five minutes from campus! Students can easily get there by car, bike or even by foot. The produce is reasonably priced and picked fresh daily. Get your friends together, take a refreshing bike ride to the Rowand’s Farm and spend the day picking your own fruit and making memories. It is definitely worth the trip, and the strawberries hit the spot!
Contact them at (856) 589-9234 or on their Facebook page!
Like what you see? Come visit us!
Story and photography by:
Chad Wittmann, senior journalism major
Summer is upon us once more, and with that comes warm weather, outdoor activities, and delicious food. At Glassboro’s Summer Fest I was sure able to find all of that plus live musical entertainment, interactive performances, and access to local shops. This will be Glassboro’s third 
summer presenting the event, hosted by a local organization, Nexus Properties.
As an attendee I was able to enjoy Glassboro’s newly renovated Town Square, located at the corner of High St. and County Rd 553. With fresh grassy hills, picnic tables with umbrellas, and lawn chairs I easily found relaxation and serenity. Family and friends from around Glassboro came and enjoyed the oasis-feel in the middle of suburbia while listening to various styles of music (depending on the band performing; check out the band line-ups here). While there, I heard laughing among the community and saw everyone coming together to enjoy a fun-filled experience.
If you’re not one for sitting for too long, though, the event also provided the equipment to enjoy a game of cornhole (a lawn game in which players take turns throwing bags of plastic resin at a raised platform with a hole in the far end). The perfect opportunity to show off your hand-eye coordination. I certainly saw plenty of people enjoying the game while there. While enjoying the summer-fun, I was also able to choose from several food trucks the event brings in as well as some local restaurants setting up serving stations.
The area also provides easy access to Glassboro’s recently constructed Rowan Boulevard, a city-like environment with restaurants and shops lining the store-fronts. Glassboro is a historical community, having been established in 1779 growing its economy through glass-making. Today, the town has grown into a modern version of itself, constantly innovating and advancing its infrastructure. With both a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a historical foundation, Glassboro is growing into the town for everyone.
Like what you see? Register for a tour or open house.
Story and photography by: Alexander Belli, recent graduate B.A. in public relations and advertising
One of the hidden gems around Glassboro is the Rowan Art Gallery at 301 High Street, on the edge of campus. Full of amazing classic and modern art pieces, the beautiful gallery currently features an exhibit titled “Women Defining Themselves,” curated by Andrew D. Hottle, a Rowan professor in the art department, within the College of Communication & Creative Arts. The current exhibit is commemorating the 45th anniversary of SOHO 20, a tribute to the historically significant women’s cooperative art gallery, this exhibition features works by the founding artist-members. Most of the exhibited works were first shown at SOHO 20 in the 1970s. Rowan University Art Gallery has a history of programming that recognizes the achievements of women in the visual arts.
The gallery is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon looking at these historic pieces, filled with passion and culture. My friends and I love going to see the exhibits and we try to go to the opening nights along with the meet the artist nights!
Like what you see? Come visit us!
VISIT CAMPUS
Story and photography by:
Justin Borelli, senior advertising major
Aaron Lee, a junior biochemistry and public relations double major from Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County) shares his student leadership experience.
Absolutely amazing! Those are the only words I can use to describe my experience at the NODA (The Association for Orientation, Transition, and Retention in Higher Education) Region VII Conference. Over spring break, eight of my peers and I were given the opportunity to go to Virginia Tech for a weekend. We served as representatives of Rowan and its orientation team, the PROS. The best part was that the entire trip was funded by Rowan’s Office of Orientation & Student Leadership Program (OSLP).
Throughout the weekend we not only got to go sightseeing, but we also got to learn more about how other universities and colleges run their orientation programs. Orientation is an experience all Rowan students have, and I’m sure we could all think back to our first time on a college campus. The mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness blend together to create a unique sense of unease and exhilaration. Will I fit in? Will I be able to keep up in classes? How am I going to handle living away from home/commuting? Why are they making me do this cheesy ice breaker? I’m sure we all had many questions, worries, and doubts just like these. Orientation is all about easing that transition and helping students address those concerns, and I’m thrilled to be a part of that. Without a doubt orientation has an impact on students, and having insight into how we could improve our program is so valuable for me. This trip gave us the ability to do that first-hand, and bring back new and interesting perspectives on leadership and orientation.
Although I like thinking about how this trip has helped me gain new perspectives and grow intellectually, I can’t deny that it was straight up fun. I got to spend a weekend in a new location with seven of my closest friends from the orientation team for free! We explored the campus and 
hung out in our free time. I personally spent time networking with some amazing people from universities all across the east coast. I exchanged numbers with tons of people and made some amazing connections over this trip. Nearly 40 institutions gathered together at this event and it showed. Every workshop, presentation, and cheesy icebreaker were electrifying. Finally, one of the best parts is that all the presentations were run by students. It created a relaxing, informative, and fun atmosphere for nearly every session.
All in all, the NODA Region VIII Conference was an awesome leadership experience. I know the word “leadership” can be scary to many of us, however; I would challenge those of us who aren’t involved in leadership on Rowan’s campus to try taking that first step. Run for executive board for an organization or club, apply to be apart of PROS or become a Resident Assistant. Find opportunities to take that first step because you’ll never know where it can take you. Who knows? Maybe it could land you an opportunity to go to a conference yourself someday.
Like what you see? Register for a tour or open house.
VISIT CAMPUS
Photos provided by Camryn Hadley
Story by Aaron Lee
Today we feature insight from Taylor Arbitman, a rising junior advertising major from Philadelphia, who shares her thoughts on staying active on Rowan’s campus.
So if you’re feeling stressed and need a break, take time to visit this stunning presentation. Looking for a ride to Philadelphia? Catch the RAH (Rowan After Hours) Friday Night Philly Shuttle to the city. This is one gorgeous attraction you don’t want to miss. And while you’re in Philly, check out one of my […]
Just a hop, skip and a jump away lives Philadelphia; home of countless fun things for Rowan students to do! This past weekend, my friends and I took the quick trip to Philly see the musical The Bridges of Madison County through the Philadelphia Theatre Company at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. For a cheap $10 […]
Like what you see? Come visit us! CAMDEN, BIGGER WORLD 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:Alyssa Bauer, junior public […]
We are so #RowanPROUD to share that senior Hannah Vendetta was named NJAC’s Outstanding Track Athlete of the Year. Congratulations, Hannah! Student athlete Hannah Vendetta (senior public relations & advertising double major from Pitman, NJ) feels most at home when she’s running on the track at Rowan University.
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 […]
Like a proton, Kelly Yorke has a positive charge, driving her to go above and beyond in her field. The New York state resident, a chemical engineering major, became president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) at Rowan as a sophomore, a remarkable feat, and continued on through her junior year. Heavily involved with […]
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 […]
It’s the busiest time of the fall semester … final projects begin, tests get tough, and our work load gets heavy as our focus begins to fade off. We get caught up in already planning next semester that we forget to be thankful for the moment we’re in right here, right now. Balancing classes, work, […]
Take a look at Riccardo Savarese’s (Pittsgrove, NJ – Salem County) home away from home at the skatepark. 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 […]
If you’re ever walking through campus and see a huge crowd gathered, have no fear — it’s not an angry mob or a protest, it’s a Pokémon Go hotspot! Though it’s been a while since anyone has mentioned the once-popular game, recent updates and additions have spiked its popularity again, sending Profs out and about […]
“Hey Rowan people! If someone wants to start a ska band (horns and punk music) hit me up,” Maya Norton. Music Industry major, Medford, NJ (Burlington County). 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 […]
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 […]
Today, we speak with Arash GhasemiNejad, a recent graduate with a biological sciences bachelor’s degree from Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County) who now lives in Voorhees, NJ. Arash will share his #PROFspective with us on what it was like to be a Rowan University student and how he got the most out of his college […]
Have you heard of Holy Tomato? If not, then you have got to get in the loop with the best places to eat in South Jersey. This incredibly cute, aesthetically-pleasing pizzeria 20 minutes from campus makes the best flatbread pizza pies, fresh salads and homemade desserts like key lime pie and sopapilla cheesecake with butter […]
Lover of the arts? It’s the time of year again to take the 20 minute drive to Philly to binge watch some of the most unique and captivating theatrical experiences around. During the month of September, hundreds and hundreds of performances will be put on throughout Philadelphia, bringing thrilling and never-before-seen shows to students like […]
We always associate North Jersey with blooming sunflower fields, but to my surprise, we’ve got the most beautiful farm right in our backyard here at Rowan, flourishing with pretty flowers, tasty food and many photo opps. The 10 minute drive from Rowan to Hill Creek Farms in Mullica Hill provided us with hours of fun […]
Meet the freshmen of the Willow lounge and see how they spend their time living on campus! Video featuring: Jordan Simhony, nursing major, Cherry Hill, N.J. (Camden County) Melanie Quido, exploratory studies major, Hasbrouck Heights, N.J. (Bergen County) Mike Rodolico, computer science major, Cinnaminson, N.J. (Burlington County) Maycon Pinto, international studies major, Delran, N.J. (Burlington […]
“I love science, but I always felt like I wasn’t that traditional student. I love what I’m doing in engineering, but I don’t want to be sitting in a cubicle working all day long for my life. I want to do something more than that, especially while I’m young. Being a firefighter is a supplement […]
“We’re creating microfluidic devices to take analytical measurement of biologically significant molecules. Now, I know that sounds confusing…” When I first met with Jeremy, he spoke a language I probably could only follow about 80 percent of the time … but after listening to him explain and talk about his work, I walked away with […]
On a spring day just before final exams, one of the newest student-managed businesses added to the Rowan Boulevard, Playa Bowls, and student-developed business Stunited joined together for a day of creation, collaboration and promotion. “I’m a huge fan of Playa Bowls and when I heard they were coming to Rowan, I thought this would be […]
Full time student taking on five to six classes a semester. Employee with H&R Block. Secretary of fraternity Alpha Phi Delta. Bowling coach and student tutor. How does sophomore finance major Davon Dickson, of Logan Township (Gloucester County) balance it all? “It’s a lot of work, but I know it will pay off. My experiences are […]
Today, we speak with Mark A. Ziegler-Thayer, a junior psychological science major from Stratford (Camden County), New Jersey, who lives on campus, in the Rowan Boulevard Apartments. Mark will share their #PROFpective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how they’re getting the most out of their university experience […]
Like most students, I often find myself facing the challenge of killing time in between classes. As a commuter, I lack the luxury of trekking back to my dorm and squeezing in the next episode of Stranger Things. I discovered the wonders of Campbell Library and since then I habitually find myself there every day. […]
College Greek life is seen differently by everyone. I certainly did not think it was for me and I said I would never join a sorority. Well, that was fall semester and I am now a new member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. I absolutely love it and now I can’t imagine what my life […]
College is a weird place. Or maybe it’s the transition that’s weird. As a freshman you go from living at home with you parents to living on your own in a dorm. You’re used to a set schedule with friends in all of your classes to choosing to have no class until 2 p.m. and […]
See what philanthropic events take place at Rowan University as the students remember one of their own. Colette Bleistine was an incredibly inspirational and devoted person, who only knew how to give back. Listen to how people today continue the legacy she left behind. Visit Colette Paying It Forward for more information on Colette’s life […]
Steal a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes production of the campus newspaper, The Whit. Learn more about what Rowan University journalists do to meet their weekly deadline. Like what you see? Register for a tour or an open house. Video production and editing by: Alexander Belli Dual major, public relations and advertising
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, […]