townhouses

Rowan RAs Share Tips for Creating a Positive Environment while Living with a Roommate

Posted on by Loredonna Fiore
two people sitting in apartment.

For most people, college is the first time students live with a roommate. Resident Assistants (RAs), who are trained with mediation tactics, share some tips on how students can create and maintain a positive environment in their spaces. 

Senior RA in Townhouse Apartments Alyssa Putiri thinks the key to a positive roommate relationship is “all about being open to communication. Discussing boundaries and personal preferences are crucial to making sure both you and your roommate are comfortable with each other. Remember, you don’t need to be best friends with your roommate, but it’s important to create a comfortable environment for the both of you to live in.” 

Alyssa Putiri leans against an outdoor railing on campus.
Alyssa Putiri

Alex Jackson, a senior RA in 230 Victoria Nexus Apartments, says to “pick your battles. There’s always going to be disagreements, as people in general have different living styles. But if you and your roommate can learn to compromise on things that aren’t too important, you will both be sure to take important issues much more seriously.”

Alex standing outside

Whitney Center RA senior Mathew Mcgrath says “first and foremost, it is essential that roommates maintain respect for one another. Roommate agreements provide a framework for what roommates want and expect from one another. Having respect for each other will make developing personal bonds both a less complicated and less intimidating venture.”

Mathew McGrath

Sam Eloy, a junior RA in Rowan Boulevard Apartments, challenges students to “make sure they are as transparent as possible. Address any issues immediately rather than letting them simmer. Drawing lines of respect and understanding is important to make sure no one is ever offended or gets hurt.” 

Selfie of Sam Eloy.
Sam Eloy

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

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5 RAs Share the Benefits of Living on Campus

Posted on by Loredonna Fiore
External shot of Townhouses.

Living on campus can open a door of opportunities for Rowan students. Resident Assistants, or RAs, are an integral part of the on-campus community. They are trained to guide and support students in their transition to Rowan residence halls. Here, five Rowan RAs reveal the perks of on-campus living.  

“Especially in a time where online learning is more prominent, it is crucial for our students to feel like they have a space to connect with other students and staff. We offer events that different offices and organizations hold for students to be able to unwind and enjoy their time on campus. We have internship opportunities here on campus, jobs, and so much more to offer all for our students. These connections are something that they can take with them well into the future.

“My job as an RA is to be able to know the resources on campus and connect my residence with what I feel they need or would like to try. I offer events that SUP put on, connections to the Wellness Center, the Academic Success Center and so much more. As an RA I am the point person to help students understand each of the departments that we offer. I even get the opportunity to get to know my residents by attending events with them or even just eating at the student center. It is one of the most impactful student leadership roles on campus.” – Sydney Ramos, an RA in Mimosa Hall

Sydney sits outside on a gazebo.
Sydney Ramos

“Living on campus was one of the best decisions I made when I first arrived at Rowan. Not only do students who live on campus possess opportunities to develop as an independent, but they may also forge bonds with one another. The communities fostered by Rowan’s residence halls are strong, making it easier for students to thrive socially when they first arrive at college. RAs are responsible for making residents feel comfortable in their new environment. We facilitate and promote programs and other events tailored toward the diverse interests of our community.” – Matthew Mcgrath, an RA in The Whitney Center

Matthew smiling with red umbrellas in the background.
Matthew Mcgrath

“Living on campus gives a whole different perspective of life! It’s not for everyone, keep in mind, but it’s a great way to meet new people and get super involved. Rowan has so many fun campus events that it’s just easier to enjoy if you live on campus. Academically, it can be a lot more convenient to walk to class instead of trying to find a parking spot or if you need to run into a lab for whatever reason. RA’s can play a huge role in the college experience, as they are usually the first resource you go to for any advice or announcements regarding events on campus. They try their best to really integrate you into the community and make you feel at home.” – Alyssa Putiri, an RA in Townhouse Apartments

Alyssa sitting at a table with her laptop on campus.
Alyssa Putiri

“Living on campus is an integral part of the college experience. It provides a smaller community of students who you might not otherwise get to meet if you weren’t living on campus. Rowan’s residence halls are great communities for students, and as RAs, we help run this community. Fostering an environment for residents to interact with one another and feel connected to the community is one of our goals, and this is an experience you don’t get to have if you aren’t living on campus.” – Rachel Galing, an RA in Magnolia Hall

Headshot of Rachel smiling.
Rachel Galing

“Living on campus was the best choice for me, 100%. Living in a residence hall freshman year was a unique experience that introduced me to so many different types of people and brought me closer to people on my floor and in my major. I was also close to everything on campus, so meeting up with friends or classmates to do homework or hang out was always convenient.” – Alex Jackson, an RA in 230 Victoria Apartments

Alex in student center.
Alex Jackson

Even though living away from home can seem scary, Rowan RA’s and the greater campus community can help make it worthwhile. 

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

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#PROFspective: Biomedical Engineering Major Ashleigh Jankowski

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby
Ashleigh sits on a ledge outside of Engineering Hall.

Today we speak to Ashleigh Jankowski, a sophomore Biomedical Engineering major with a minor in Chemistry from Catonsville, Maryland. 

Ashleigh poses outside of Engineering Hall with her face reflected on a reflective surface.

What is a typical Rowan day for you?

In the morning, I go to do research in Engineering Hall. I do research for Dr. Byrne’s biomedical engineering lab. Usually, after that, throughout the day I have various classes, and I usually grab a quick lunch from the Student Center. Typically, a nap fits in there somewhere. I work in the evenings as a Classroom Support Technician for Rowan’s IRT Department. After I get off work, I either do homework or hang out with my housemates. We watch movies together, play games, bake, and more.

Could you share with us one moment during your time at Rowan that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right major for you?

In doing research with the Byrne Lab, I have realized that majoring in Biomedical Engineering was definitely the right choice for me. We have weekly meetings where fellow teammates present their work. It was in the first of these meetings that I attended where I realized that being a BME is something I genuinely enjoy and can get excited about.

Ashleigh poses outdoors in a wooded area.

Could you tell us a little bit about your transition into Rowan as an incoming student?

I was very nervous but super excited. At first, my transition was rough, but it was self-inflicted. I kept my head down and didn’t go out. But, with the coaxing of my wonderful roommate, I began attending RAH and SUP events, which is where I came out of my shell and met some of my best friends.

What are your professional goals?

I intend to pursue a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering once I complete undergrad, and after that, I intend to pursue a research career in biomedical engineering.

Ashleigh poses by the pond at Engineering Hall.

How has Rowan helped to support you with your professional goals?

Rowan offers so many opportunities to help support me in achieving my educational and professional goals. I am a part of multiple student organizations, including the Society of Women Engineers, Women in Engineering (WIE), and Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES), that provide networking opportunities as well as workshops for academic growth. Professors are more than supportive, offering help when needed in class and advice on career-based matters. Getting the opportunity to do research starting my freshman year has also been a big help in supporting my goals. I am learning through experience how to do hands-on research, how to work in a lab team, how to formally present data, and how to write a paper for publication. All of these things are going to benefit me in the long run as I pursue a Ph.D. and a successful biomedical engineering career.

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

Photos by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major

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#PROFspective: Junior Computer Science Major Alex Levinson

Posted on by Rachel Rumsby

Today we speak with Alex Levinson, a junior Computer Science major from East Windsor, New Jersey (Mercer County). He lives on-campus in the Townhouses, and he is involved with Student University Programmers, Neurodiversity Club, and Colleges Against Cancer. 

Alex poses with his stocking.

Why did you choose your major?

I chose my major because I’ve always loved technology-related activities, and my dad was also a computer science major in college. I thought this would be the perfect major for me. I love working with technology and learning how computers work. I like learning about programming too. I might go into IT after graduating. 

How do you feel that the clubs and activities you are involved with on-campus fulfill you?

The clubs I am involved with, Student University Programmers, Neurodiversity Club, and Colleges Against Cancer, fulfill me because they give me a nice break from, you know, doing schoolwork, and also allows me to get to know my peers and other people on campus. 

What would you share with a future student interested in your major?

Computer Science is a really great major, and with how common technology is nowadays, there is so much you can do with this major and in this field. It is important to work hard in the major, but in the end, it is worth it.  

Alex poses with an ice cream cone.

What impact would you like to have on the world by going into your field?

Computers and technology, in general, are so common nowadays, it feels good to help technology move forward and stay up to date with technology in the future. Also, the more I learn about computers and how they work, the more I am able to help others who may not be as proficient in technology as I am. If someone were to ask me for help with their computer, I would be able to help them fix any problems or explain how to use certain functions of their computer. 

Is there a professor that has helped you get where you are today in your major?

I had Professor John Manz, an adjunct professor, for a programming class. I was not very good at programming, but he explained it very well, and some of the programming concepts clicked in my brain after taking his class. 

Alex poses outdoors.

How was your transition to Rowan?

My transition to Rowan was mostly good. I handled it a lot better than I thought I would, being in a whole new environment and not having my parents with me every day.  I was able to get through this by having weekly Skype sessions with my parents. There are also times where I am able to visit home, or they are able to visit me.

Why did you choose Rowan?

I chose Rowan because I really liked the campus. I like to compare the campus to the Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It’s not too big, not too small. It’s just right. We have a main street, which is something I wanted in a college, and Rowan Boulevard. I thought the size of Rowan was a perfect fit for me.  

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

Photos provided by:
Alex Levinson, junior computer science major

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TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Human Resources Management Major Vanessa Finnan

Posted on by Nicole Cier

Today’s TRANSFERmation Tuesday features Vanessa Finnan, a junior Human Resources Management major and transfer from Rowan College at Burlington County. Vanessa is from Cinnaminson, NJ (Burlington County), and lived on-campus in Townhouses prior to campus closure due to COVID-19.

Vanessa Finnan smiles in front of a wall of string lights.Could you share with us one moment that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right field for you?

A moment where I felt inspired and confident that I was in the right field for me is taking specific classes that enlightened me and bettered my understanding of what my career path is going to be. Taking required classes for your major and enjoying them and benefiting from them is a great feeling. 

Photo of transfer student Vanessa Finnan on the beachWhy did you choose Rowan?

Honestly, I chose Rowan because it was more affordable than some other schools and because it was still close enough to home. The campus is easy to navigate and the housing is above average in my opinion, compared to most colleges. I knew I could get a good education that was within my means. 

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

Next year, I am looking forward to taking more major specific classes, and getting involved as much as possible for my senior year!

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Story by:
Nicole Cier, writing arts graduate

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#PROFspective: Honors Bio Major Drusilla Appiah-kubi Sets Her Sights on Med School

Posted on by Nicole Cier
Exterior shot of Science Hall

Today we feature Drusilla Appiah-kubi, a Biological Science major, Psychology minor and Honors concentration student wrapping up her junior year. Drusilla is a first-generation college student from Old Bridge, NJ (Middlesex County) who lived in the Townhouses.

Biological Science major Drusilla smiles in a ballroom wearing a colorful dress.

Academic or social clubs you are a part of: I’m the Vice President of the Rowan African Student Association

What inspired you to choose your major?

When I was little I would babysit my little cousins all the time, and I would play with them all the time until it was nap time. Even though taking care of babies is a pain :), I would always love putting a smile on their faces. I also loved it when I was younger my pediatrician would come to work so lively and energetically. At the end of the appointment, I would always receive a sticker and a lollipop, which always put a smile on my face. This showed me that they truly loved what they do and gave me a huge interest in that field.

Biological Science major Drusilla stands on a marble staircase wearing a colorful dress.What would you share with a future student interested in your major?

Being a Biological Sciences major isn’t easy, especially if your main focus is to go to medical school. One thing I’ve noticed is that if you like chemistry you’re not going to like organic chemistry so much. Every major consists of putting time into studying, but if you plan on majoring in science and going to medical school, you should put a lot of time into studying, be organized, and have friend groups where you guys can all study together.

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

Being a pediatrician plays an important role in today’s world by taking care of children, making sure they’re well treated and healthy, and that their growth and development are where they should be in age. The kind of impact I’ll like to have on the world in my field is having my own office where kids will come and have fun.

Describe for us an experience you’ve shared with a Rowan professor in which you felt like you were working with a visionary in your field.

A self-portrait of Biological Science major Drusilla.I felt like I was working with a visionary in my field when I attended [one of my professor’s] office hours. I felt like I was able to talk to her and build a great relationship. Exchanging conversations back and forth made me realize that she truly cares for students and is willing to help her students succeed. Over the semester, I told her that I was planning on furthering my education by going to medical school and becoming a pediatrician. 

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Story by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major

Photos courtesy of:
Drusilla Appiah-kubi

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#PROFspective: Junior Reflects on Leaving Campus, Hopes to be “Back in Glassboro Soon”

Posted on by Bianca Torres

Today, we feature Alexander Weisberger, a junior Biochemistry major from Fair Lawn, NJ (Bergen County). We were able to speak to Alexander just before he was getting ready to leave campus because of social distancing to protect society from the spread of COVID-19. Next year he will live off campus, after living on campus in the Townhouses this year. 

How do you feel about leaving Rowan in the middle of the year?
“I am definitely disappointed that we all had to leave Rowan in the middle of the year. I had a lot of personal and academic plans that ended up being cancelled due to the pandemic. What gives me some comfort though is knowing that we’re all in the same boat and that we’ll hopefully be back in Glassboro soon.”

Alexander walks down Route 322 with a box

What’s inside that box?
“The box I was carrying had supplies for the Pre-Health Society’s station at the Haunted Student Center event. Every year, the Pre-Health Society participates in a big Halloween event in the student center called “The Haunted Student Center,” where all of the clubs either decorate a stand or a room and hand out candy to some of the children in Glassboro in a safe and fun environment. It’s a fun event for the kids, and our club is happy to participate in it.”

What clubs are you a part of?
“This year I was part of the Rowan Pre-Health Society, Ambassadors, RUSSS (Rowan Student Scholar Symposium) and the Honors Problem Based Learning group.”
Alexander carrying a box outside
What fun things are you missing on campus right now?
“I’d say the biggest thing I am missing on campus is the Pre-Health Society Cooper Rowan Clinic Gala. The Gala is a charity event that we host yearly to benefit the Cooper Rowan Clinic that’s run by medical students at CMSRU. It’s a free clinic that gives medical treatment to the underserved population in Camden, and we host the event to raise money to assist them in buying supplies. Our second annual Gala was supposed to take place in early April, but we had to cancel it. My fellow executive board members and I had been working on setting the event up since mid-last year, so it was unfortunate that it ended this way.”

Any advice or words of encouragement to those missing school right now?
“I’d say that it’s important to recognize that we’re all in the same boat right now and the best thing to do is work on improving yourself with all of the free time we have. We’re not going to be stuck in quarantine forever, so it would be really cool to come out of quarantine in good physical health, with a few new hobbies, or even some new knowledge.”

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Story by:
Bianca Torres, junior music industry major

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Prof on the Run: Upperclassmen Housing [VIDEO]

Posted on by Alex Belli

Take a peek inside Rowan’s upperclassmen housing while our favorite furry prof has some fun with his friends.

Know exactly where you’re looking for? Click the time stamp to your future home.
Rowan Boulevard @ 0:05
Whitney Center @ 0:40
Townhouses @ 1:15
Edgewood @ 1:50

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghl-e9uzs3o

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VISIT CAMPUS​​

Filmed by: Alexander Belli, senior pubic relations and advertising dual major; Dean Powers, freshman radio, tv, and film major
Edited by: Dean Powers, freshman radio, tv, and film major
Music by: Joseph Murphy, junior music industry major

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#PROFspective: Translational Biomedical Science Major Zachary Padron

Posted on by Alex Belli

Your Name: Zachary PadronYour Major: Translation Biomedical ScienceYour Minors: Bantivoglio Honors Concentration in the Honors College, Pre-Medical Minor, Neuroscience Minor, and Ethics Certificate of Undergraduate StudyYour Year: JuniorHometown and County: Hamilton, NJ (Mercer County)Resident: Yes, I live as a Resident Assistant in the Townhouse ComplexAcademic Organizations: American Physician Scientist Association (Research Chair Executive Board Member)Social Clubs: President of Colleges Against Cancer and Chi Alpha Christian FellowshipOn-Campus Employment: Resident Assistant for the Townhouse ComplexOff-Campus Employment: Research Assistant in the Neuroscience Research Lab at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia […]

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#PROFspective: Early Childhood Education & Literacy Studies Major Melissa Martinique

Posted on by Vanessa Vause
Education major Melissa outside of Robinson Circle at Rowan University campus

Today, we speak with Melissa Martinique, a junior early childhood education and literacy studies major from West Milford Township (Passaic County), NJ, who lives on campus in townhouses. Melissa 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 […]

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#PROFspective Elementary Education and Mathematics Major Kaitlee Francisco

Posted on by Jennifer Green
student in education building

Today we speak with Kaitlee Francisco, a sophomore elementary education and mathematics  major from Washington Township, Gloucester County, who lines on campus in the Townhouses. She will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she’s getting the most out of her college experience as a Rowan Prof. Name: […]

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