Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
volunteerism
First Rowan Student to Earn Diversity and Inclusion Certificate of Graduate Study [VIDEO]
LaWana Boone of Gloucester County, NJ chose Rowan’s Diversity and Inclusion Certificate of Graduate Study for its rigorous curriculum, classes both online and close to home, and opportunities to get involved on campus. This fall, she earned her graduate certificate — the first to do so — and plans to leverage her knowledge to help […]
Volunteering with the Glassboro Food Bank
Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
Making Friends, Supporting Charity
Today we introduce guest blogger Gabby Lang, a sophomore public relations major from Cranford, NJ (Union County.) Gabby learned from home as a first-year student and now, as a sophomore, shares her story of how she branched out to make friends this year. Gabby shares this post to encourage the Rowan community to come out for the Cystic Fibrosis walk Wednesday, November 10, at Bunce Green from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
I can 100% say that adapting to college was one of the biggest adjustments I have ever had. A new environment, new people, and new everything. I can admit that at first it was very difficult to make new friends and acquaintances, and like everyone else I wanted the “college life” everyone talked about.
I learned that the cliche advice to join new clubs really was the best advice given to me. If a club appeals to you, jump at the opportunity. I joined PRaction, a student-run public relations firm, to get hands-on experience in my field.
I was scared to join at first because I did not know much about PR and am only a sophomore, however it seemed interesting. I decided to give it a try, and I was assigned to work on our annual cystic fibrosis fundraising event.
We host the event in memory of Rowan University student Colette W. Bleistine, who sadly passed away from cystic fibrosis in 2012. Her parents created the Colette W. Bleistine Paying It Forward Foundation, and we donate the money we raise to this foundation.
This year, our goal is to raise $590 through a community walk around campus. We welcome our #RowanPROUD family, community neighbors, and those who support finding a cure for cystic fibrosis to join us on Wednesday, November 10 at 5 p.m. at the Bunce Green for the one hour walk.
PRaction placed me with students who had similar interests, and because of this I connected with people I would have never otherwise met. This is the first time that I’ve collaborated in a large group for a professional project. Every group member is delegated a role and it makes you realize you’re a part of something and that your work has purpose and impact.
This experience is so beneficial because I am able to network, gain valuable experience, and help plan an event that will benefit those living with cystic fibrosis. Planning this event has brought so much more passion to my interest in public relations.
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40 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your College Experience
Rowan Blog contributors share their personal tips on getting the most out of your college experience at Rowan University. 1. Join a club Joining a club is a great way to meet new people and to ease the stress of academic course load. 2. Participate in recreational sports Participating in recreational sports can lead you […]
Alumni Success: Mitch McDaniels on Finding Your “WHY”
Alumni Success Stories Explore how our alumni propel their Rowan University education into lasting success, as highlighted through our alumni success series. From Rowan University student to lifelong member of the Rowan University Alumni Association, Rowan Profs thrive at every stage of their journey. Go Profs!
Meet Transfer Profs: Biology Major Stephanie Berdugo-Hernandez
Today we feature incoming transfer and first-generation college student Stephanie Berdugo-Hernandez from Rowan College at Burlington County. Stephanie will be commuting from Eastampton, NJ (Burlington County) and studying Biological Sciences. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University? I am looking forward to continuing my education […]
Meet Transfer Profs: Incoming Marketing Major Mallory Harris
Today we feature incoming transfer student Mallory Harris. Mallory will be living on campus and studying Marketing. She is from Havre de Grace, MD and transferring from Harford Community College. Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward at Rowan University? I am most looking forward to meeting new […]
Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity, Inc.’s Community Service Efforts
Today we speak to Chris Acevedo, president of Rowan’s Omicron Chapter of the Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Chris is a sophomore Management Information Systems major from Winslow, NJ (Camden County). Chris lives off-campus and is a first-generation college student. Chris is also a student veteran. Chris tells us about Lambda Theta Phi’s community service work they have done recently.
Can you tell me about the community service Lambda Theta Phi is doing?
Since Rowan is located in Glassboro, we like to focus a lot of our community service on either Camden or Atlantic City, because those cities need help. There are many people who need help in those cities, and we want to help as many people as we can. We collaborate with other chapters such as the chapters at Rutgers – Camden, Temple and Stockton. S
Some of the community services we have done include feeding and giving away items to homeless people in Philadelphia, Camden, and Atlantic City. Sometimes we do smaller engagements such as clean-ups of towns and people’s backyards, but we try to do big events serving 150 families or more. We try to help as many people as we can. Recently we have held four community outreach events. Near Thanksgiving, we gave away Thanksgiving baskets that consisted of items such as turkey, cornbread, cranberry sauce, and other traditional Thanksgiving foods. We were able to drive food to some families as well.
Near the holidays, we had a holiday-themed event that helped around 300 families. We had a brother dress up as Santa Claus and we gave away toys donated by the Heart of Camden and Total Turf, as well as hats, coats, and gloves. We did a similar event in January, handing out hats, coats, gloves, scarves, and toys. We have also done an event where we walked around Walter Rand in Camden, giving away hand warmers, gloves, and other winter items.
Why is the Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity so focused on community service?
The root of our organization is based on service. Our principles and ideals emphasize catering to the communities that many of us come from. As we progress in our endeavors as individuals and as a collective, we always aim to uplift the very community that has raised us.
What would you say the benefits of being involved in Greek life are?
Greek life advances networking. There are many reasons that people pursue Greek life; i.e. a sense of family/belonging, making friends. But the biggest positive is networking. You meet people from all walks of life and all different ages. Sometimes you’re able to meet people who have similar interests and can offer guidance, or you can meet someone that’s gone down a different path and offers different perspectives on life. Whatever your reason for joining a Greek organization, you are always going to meet someone new.
What else does the Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity focus on besides community service?
Lambda Theta Phi is big on community service but it isn’t our only task. We are big on the connection / social aspect. We enjoy the presence of our brothers making a lot of bonding events, whether it’s our chapter here at Rowan or any other schools. Connecting with other Greek organizations makes your networking bigger and more relationships that last forever.
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Story and photos by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Community service photo submitted by:
Chris Acevedo, sophomore management information systems major
Meet #Rowan2025: Undeclared Turned Business Major Bailey Livezey
Today, we meet #Rowan2025 student Bailey Livezey! Bailey, an incoming freshman from Mullica Hill, NJ (Gloucester County), was originally undeclared; she then decided a Business degree would be the right fit for her. She shares what clubs she wants to continue pursuing in her college career and offers some advice to other incoming freshmen.
Welcome to Rowan! Could you share with us one thing you are looking forward in college?
I am looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life and perhaps learning something about myself that I didn’t know before.
What is one hobby, activity, sport or club you were a part of in high school that you’d like to continue in college?
I have done Key Club and love the aspects about it! Doing community service and helping those in need brings me happiness. I would love to continue to this in college.
Is there anything you’re hoping to discover about yourself in college? Grow a new skill? Try a new interest? Starting a new activity, sport or club?
I do not have a specific career that I want to do, so I am hoping to figure out what I am passionate about and expand on that.
What majors are you considering and why?
I applied undecided, but I am going to declare as a [College of Business] major. Business includes such a wide variety of careers, which is very exciting to me. I have hope I will fall in love with one of them!
Did you tour Rowan or attend any virtual events? If so, which ones, and what did you think?
I attended a virtual event of Rowan that explained the basics about the campus and what Rowan is about. Not knowing what I want to do as a career, this event assured me that I will figure out my future at Rowan.
Do you have advice for other high school seniors who haven’t committed to a school yet?
Don’t take everything in at once! If you look at it all, it will only overwhelm you. Enjoy the process and take it one step at a time.
Where are you going to live next year?
I’m commuting from home!
What is one thing about Rowan itself that you liked?
The campus is definitely one of my favorite things about Rowan. The Rowan campus is always expanding. I have seen it grow since I live very close by. With the campus consistently evolving, the opportunities that lie on this campus do as well.
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Story by: Bianca Torres, senior music industry major
Beyond the Classroom: PR/Advertising Double Major Steven Saxon on How Volunteerism Ties into His Major
Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
Student Leadership with Volunteerism: Fresh For All [VIDEO]
Rowan University students share their volunteer and leadership experience with Fresh For All, an on-campus initiative partnership with Philabundance that brings free, fresh fruits and vegetables to campus every week. Video by:Adam Clark, senior Radio/TV/Film major Music by:Louis Testa III, music composition and jazz studies Thank you to New Jersey Digest for recognizing Rowan Blog […]
Student Leadership with Volunteerism: Fresh For All [VIDEO]
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
Beyond the Classroom: Meet Africana Studies Club President Nafisat Olapade
Today we feature Nafisat Olapade, president of the Africana Studies Club. She’s a Biological Sciences and Psychology double major and a first-generation college student. Here, she tells us more about the club and her leadership role in this campus organization.
Can you tell me about the Africana Studies Club?
Africana Studies Club is here to promote a higher level of consciousness for students when it comes to whatever path they decide to choose after Rowan. It’s important to emphasize Africana Studies as a major or a minor. It’s important to battle racial disparities in its forefront in whatever career you decide to get into.
Is the Africana Studies Club involved in any events?
We have events that are planned, currently this year we plan on doing volunteering programs. We’re partnering with NJAC, which is the New Jersey Abolitionist Collective; they work with the communities that are less funded and have less opportunities. They are also really big on advocating for the rights of inmates. We plan on doing a volunteering outreach programs with them.
What do you hope to get out of the Africana Studies Club for yourself?
Africana Studies itself allows me to learn more about how I can use whatever position I gain in the future to help people in communities that need help. It allows me to be aware of the disparities and just the structural racism that is in a lot of different fields in the world and how I can do my part from where I stand.
Does the Africana Studies Club have a different meaning this year with the Black Lives Matter movement?
I think right now we have a lot of people who care, and that’s something great to hold onto. I feel like this momentum is great for our club and it’s great for also gaining members. People need to translate their caring and social media activism into things that are tangible in real life. I think this momentum that we currently have could be used in the club and having people just gain awareness in what racism means in day-to-day life.
What is your favorite thing about the Africana Studies Club?
I really like that I’m friends with my e-board members, some of them are my roommates actually. I like the passion behind a lot of the members in the club and I like that I get to leave something at Rowan before I move on.
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Story by:
Luke Garcia, junior music industry major
Photography by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
#PROFspective: Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management Major Maribeth Novsak
Maribeth Novsak, a senior Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management major from Cape May Court House, NJ (Cape May County), shares some highlights of her Rowan experience.
What inspired you to choose your major?
I actually started as an Athletic Training student here at Rowan. After my sophomore year, I realized I wasn’t happy in the classroom but I was happy working as an EMT and learning about mass casualty and shelter operations, that’s what really drew me to switch my major to Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, as well as a great group of friends and family.
How are you involved on campus? How does it fulfill you or support your future goals?
I currently volunteer with Rowan EMS as well as hold one of their two student worker positions. When I am there as a student worker I coordinate non-emergency transports for students to doctors’ offices. When I am there in a volunteer capacity, I answer 911 calls, assist in the training of EMTs as well as help with the driver training program. I’m usually at the squad about 48 hours a week.
Could you share with us one moment that made you feel inspired or confident that you’re in the right field for you?
Every interaction that I have with my classmates and professors as well as every time I hand in a quality paper or project shows me that this is where I am meant to be and I made the right choice in changing my major.
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.
All of our professors in our program are great. There is one professor in particular that I have connected with, and she has become a great mentor to me. Not only have I had her for multiple classes she has helped me with career advising and has let me talk through all of the different scenarios with her.
The thing with my field is, I feel like learning the curriculum is important but learning the networking and building capital for yourself is even more important because one day you are going to need to use it.
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Photography by:
Quintin Stinney, radio/television/film major
5 Ways Students Are Giving Back This Season
Although this time of year is filled with gifts and twinkly lights, the holidays are also known as the season of giving. Here are 5 ways Rowan students are giving back this holiday season through the Office of Volunteerism.
1. The SHOP
The SHOP is a food and resource pantry located in room 141 of Building 5 in the Rowan Boulevard Apartments. The SHOP is donation based, so students, faculty and members of the Glassboro community can donate items for students to pick up free of charge. The SHOP has a plethora of canned goods, cleaning supplies, toiletries and other items students may need. To give back this season, consider donating or volunteering to help work at The SHOP.
2. Fresh for All
The Fresh for All program by Philabundance is a resource available on Rowan’s campus. Fresh for All provides fresh fruits and vegetables for Rowan students and the Rowan community. Each Friday, the produce is available for pick up from 10-11 a.m. in Parking Lot D on Rowan’s Glassboro campus. This is a great resource for students of the Rowan community to stay healthy and eat well. To give back this season, volunteer by portioning out the produce, bringing the produce into the person’s vehicle and/or assisting walkup clients. See our video on the Fresh For All program.
3. Volunteer for Ronald McDonald House Charities
To give back this season, consider volunteering at the Chamberlain Student Center with the Office of Volunteerism. There, you’ll be able to help make snack packs for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. The Ronald McDonald House Charity is a non-profit organization that aims to support children and their families.
4. Make Handwritten Cards
A handwritten note can really show someone how much you care. This holiday season, you can help the members of the assisted living center at Juniper Village feel appreciated. The Office of Volunteerism is hosting card making sessions at the Chamberlain Student Center to provide supplies for the cards.
5. Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
There’s no better combination than peanut butter and jelly. To volunteer this season, you can come make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the Cathedral Kitchen with the Office of Volunteerism. This is a great way to give back to the greater South Jersey community.
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Beyond the Classroom: Fresh For All Coordinator William Hendrixson Reflects on Giving Back
Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
How I Made Friends at Rowan
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
#MeetRowan2024: Multi-talented Marketing Major Megan Steckler
Today we feature future freshman and Marketing major Megan Steckler from Mullica Hill, NJ (Gloucester County). Megan is excited to be commuting to Rowan in the fall.
What is something you’re looking forward to next year at Rowan?
Although this may sound cliche, I am looking forward to taking classes, meeting new people and experiencing the college life.
What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?
In high school, I played field hockey, lacrosse, and I swam. Hopefully, I will continue to play lacrosse. I also want to continue participating in Key Club, or another volunteer-oriented club, and Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) at Rowan.
How or why did you choose your major?
In high school, I was part of a specialized program called the Business Leadership Academy (BLA). It is a business-oriented curriculum that I found challenging and a lot of fun!
I like business because it is such a versatile subject. One of my favorite classes in the BLA at Kingsway High School was my marketing class. I love the creative side of business, and I want to continue to explore that part specifically in college.
How did you get to know campus?
I live close to Rowan, I attended Rowan’s Think Like an Entrepreneur camp last summer, and my older sister attends Rowan now. So, even though I have never received an “official” tour, I am already very familiar with the campus.
What music do you like?
I love pop, rock and alternative music.
Night owl or morning person?
I am definitely a night owl!
Why Rowan?
Rowan is a really good school, it is close to home, and I was fortunate to receive a Merit Scholarship. Also, the school is still growing, the campus is expanding, and I can’t wait to get started! I am excited about all of the opportunities at Rowan! Go Profs!
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Story by:
Melanie Sbaraglio, public relations and advertising graduate
How the Volunteer Club Impacts My Rowan Experience
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
Meet Rowan #2024: Athletic Training Major, Firefighter Chooses Rowan To Be Close to Hometown
Today we feature Logan Robenolt, an incoming Athletic Training major from Barrington, NJ (Camden County). He tells us more about what he’s looking forward to at Rowan University and why he chose Rowan.
What is one activity, club, sport or hobby that you did in high school that you’d like to continue with at Rowan?
I did stage crew in high school, and I would like to continue to help with productions that take place at Rowan.
How or why did you choose your major?
I chose athletic training since I would like to become a physical therapist and this is a start to that profession. But the reason why I want to become one is that I was in physical therapy for about three years when I broke my arm and I just grew a liking to it.
Why did you choose a university close to home?
I chose a university close to home since my twin brother wanted to go to an out-of-state college, and I wasn’t trying to create a lot of debt. However, I am a firefighter in my hometown so when I’m home I can still run fire calls when the time permits.
Why Rowan?
I’ve had many teachers and mentors who were in Rowan for my major and other topics. They encouraged me to go to Rowan since it’s the same education — if not better than — other schools for a much, much cheaper price.
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Senior Reflects: Psychology Major Nicole Byrne Shares Her Favorite Rowan Moments
Today we feature senior Nicole Byrne, a psychology major and neuroscience minor from Brick, New Jersey (Ocean County) who used to walk to campus everyday from her home she called “Lil Bed.” She originally transferred from Stockton University.
Please tell us about your favorite moment with a faculty member or a favorite experience in one of your classes? My favorite experience with a faculty member during my time at Rowan was being Dr. Martinez’s learning assistant (LA) for an entire semester. I had her as a professor and I loved how she taught. When I became her LA, our relationship expanded to something more. She was there for me through graduate school applications and through bumps in the road. I learned so much from her and I am beyond grateful for the relationship we established. She was a mentor that listened to me whenever I needed it. I loved hearing her hilarious stories about her kids and she loved my crazy stories about my family. It was an amazing experience to be able to open up to my professor.
What was your favorite or most meaningful personal moment at Rowan? I was able to volunteer and be a ref at the Unified Sports this last semester. I had a blast. Being able to hangout and ref my favorite sport was one of the most memorable moments that I was able to receive while my time here at Rowan. The Green Team thought I was hilarious with the random and weird moves I would do with the basketball during time outs. It was the purest and the most fun I have had in a long time!
What are your career aspirations and how did the people or programs at Rowan help to support you with those aspirations? I was fortunate enough to be a student researcher at Rowan University’s Schizophrenia-Spectrum research lab. My fellow classmates, graduate students and Dr. Dinzeo taught me so much and helped me realize that I have a passion for research. I wouldn’t have gotten the necessary tools to get into my dream graduate program if it wasn’t for that lab and the members in it. They will always have a special place in my heart!
Do you want to give a thank you shout out to your family, friends, advisors or mentors? I want to give a HUGE shout out to my little sister Brittany who is still at Rowan University and my other sister Chelsea who has inspired me every single day. I want to thank my friends, teammates, my “B-Town” longtime friends and Jeremy Brown. Without the love and support they all give me each and every day, I wouldn’t be where I am today!
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Senior Reflects: Accounting and Finance Double Major Stephanie Revas
Meet Stephanie Revas, an accounting and finance double major with a human resources management minor for her CPA from Bellmawr, NJ (Camden County). Stephanie is a member of Beta Alpha Psi, the international honor organization for financial information students and professionals, and lived on campus during her time at Rowan.
Favorite experience: One of my favorite experiences was working with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program for four years. By volunteering with the program, it opened up so many doors and connections that truly shaped my experience in college.
How did you meet your closest friends: One of my closest friends I met during summer orientation, and then our paths kept crossing. I met others through our residence halls or clubs.
Career Aspirations: I’m currently studying for my CPA exam, and eventually I plan on working as an auditor.
Shout outs: I couldn’t have gotten through university without the support of my parents, friends, and the business faculty specifically those in the Dean’s Office, Accounting and Finance Department, and Human Resource Department.
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Volunteer for Your Well-being
Additional Student Wellness Stories Keep reading student wellness stories to learn how Rowan Profs support their mental, physical and emotional well-being. Through Rowan Thrive, Rowan University provides a comprehensive framework designed to help students live in alignment with their values and cultivate resilience across six core areas of well-being. Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn […]
Students Make Furry Friends at Salem County Humane Society [VIDEO]
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.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Video by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
Music by:
Louis Testa III, junior music composition major
Recovering Philanthropy at Rowan University
Meet Samantha B, sophomore biomedical engineering major from Sewell, NJ (Gloucester County.) She shares her passion for volunteering with the Food Recovery Network and encourages students to deepen their volunteer experiences on-campus.
“What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other?” – George Eliot
There are few feelings, as a college student and human being, that rival the sensation of giving back to a cause, any cause, that matters to you. Giving all that we can do individually to better the lives of those that we empathize with is just about as rewarding as it gets, and it’s safe to say that we all wish we could participate in philanthropic efforts a little more than we already do.
It’s easy to be philanthropic when you’re a well-established gajillionaire, but as an undergraduate 20-something scraping together loose change to do your laundry and buy discount cereal from Aldi, donating to your favorite non-profits is an act easier said than done. Money is tight, and some days, starting a personal GoFundMe to keep your Spotify subscription afloat doesn’t seem all too crazy. All of this begs the question: “How can I give back on-campus in a way that works for me?”
As a student who actively volunteers and is constantly searching for ways to be more immersed on campus, I can assure you that Rowan offers a plethora of opportunities for students to give back. The breadth of volunteer efforts on campus reach a scope far beyond the bounds of our school — philanthropic efforts tend to reach the Glassboro community, as well as greater national causes.
That being said, it can be difficult to weed through the zillions of opportunities provided by our university to find the activities that really resonate with us as individuals. After a full year (and one semester) here at Rowan, I’ve found my own personal unsung hero of philanthropy in the form of Rowan’s Food Recovery Network.
Rowan’s Food Recovery Network is a small, student-led organization on campus that works on a weekly basis to source unused, otherwise wasted food from Rowan University’s dining halls. Students and faculty transport recovered food to local shelters in the Glassboro community. Food Recovery Network redirects food waste to a worthy cause, and gives students a chance to positively impact their surrounding community in a way that’s meaningful, and of course, doable.
Being a part of something like Food Recovery Network at Rowan, a university that encourages sustainability and practicing sustainable habits, is extremely rewarding. Being able to give back to those that have lent a hand in building beautiful Glassboro — the town that us Profs get to call home — is an opportunity I’m beyond grateful to have.
The best part? I don’t have to dip into my Spotify subscription fund to give back — all that I need to donate is my time, energy and my drive, shared by everyone at Food Recovery, to make the lives of those around us just a little less difficult. That’s the case with most volunteer efforts at Rowan University — so enhance your college experience, and lend a hand!
Like what you see, learn more about our healthy campus initiatives!
Story by:
Samantha B, sophomore biomedical engineering major
Photos by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
#PROFspective: International Student Nam P.N.H
Today, we speak with Nam P N.H, a junior Nutrition major from Đà Nẵng, Việt Nam who commutes from Cape May. Nam P 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.
Your name: Nam P N.H
Your major(s): Nutrition
Are you a first-generation college student? No
Your year: Junior
Transfer student: Yes. I transferred my credits from Atlantic Cape Community College.
Hometown: Đà Nẵng, Việt Nam
Where do you live? Cape May, NJ (Cape May County)
Commuter: Yes, this [fall] semester I [commuted] 5 days a week from Cape May.
Academic clubs you are a part of: Nutrition Care Club, student member of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Social clubs you are a part of: Volunteer for the Community Foodbank of New Jersey, Social Media Volunteer for Clinical Nutrition Management Dietetic Practice Group.
Share an “aha!” moment you’ve had within your major that made you feel passionate about your intended field.
This is my first semester at Rowan as a Dietetics student. I have to say that the Department of Health Sciences keeps me excited every week with weekly emails about different opportunities for internship/jobs/volunteer experiences for Rowan students in our field. Recently, I received an email about an internship for students who are interested in attending the Health Promotion Conference in South Carolina. The chapter will cover the transportation and hotel fee for the accepted interns, and the conference fee is waived for interns. How cool is that!
Describe for us an experience you’ve shared with a professor in which you felt like you were working with a visionary in your field.
I really enjoy my Intro to Nutrition Profession class with Dr. [Christina] Riccardo. In this class, we are encouraged to develop our professional philosophies, making connections, identify both professional and personal future goals, as well as build positive growth mindset. As we are still in the preparation for the program, I think it is very important for each of us to reflect and know what we really want to do in the future, as we don’t want to enter the program and realize it’s not what we thought it to be, right?
Describe for us an on-campus experience (academic or non-academic) in which you felt that your future goals are supported.
The Office of Career Advancement (OCA) in Savitz Hall is very helpful and valuable for me as well as anyone who is a current Rowan student. Most of the time a good GPA is not enough to get the job that we want; it is also about how we present ourselves in person and on paper. It is sometimes quite intimidating for many students to create a professional resume, prepare for an interview or search for job opportunities. The OCA helps students learn how to write a proper cover letter, résumé, do mock interviews and find jobs and internships. I think this service is absolutely amazing. I received a lot of help and I am very grateful for all the feedback and suggestions from the faculty in this office.
Could you share a moment you’ve experienced in which you have felt that Rowan is a welcoming environment for you?
Rowan has a diverse college environment where people with different backgrounds, personalities and perspectives come together. The diversity is a great opportunity for students to learn and grow from each other. In the midst of diversity, there are associations for students with particular interests, and that made me feel like I belong. The second week at Rowan, at the Fall Festival, I met the Vietnamese Student Association. That made me feel so happy when there is diversity and ethnic integrity.
Why did you choose Rowan?
I want to be a Registered Dietitian and the first thing to do to become one is to get my education at an accredited institution. I did my research and found that Rowan is one of the 62 accredited colleges in America that offers the program I am pursuing, which I think is so awesome. I had a chance to talk to my current academic advisor, Ms. Dwyer, a year before I applied to Rowan. She helped me with what I should expect and what I should do to prepare for the program. As I learn more about the program, I am so excited to see Rowan expanding the opportunities for Dietetics students.
What’s your favorite thing about your typical Monday at Rowan?
I am taking 17 credits this semester, plus 15 hours commuting per week, so currently my favorite thing to do during the week is enjoy my coffee and podcast as I drive to campus. Some days I listen to Spotify, and other days I listen to podcasts. One of my favorite things about my days at Rowan is my studying time at the Campbell Library between classes. The staff is very friendly, and there are a lot of quiet study spaces for individual use as well as group use. Also, the printers at Rowan are awesome.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story by:
Nam P N.H, junior nutrition major
Photography by:
Nicole Cier, senior writing arts major
4333 Collective Holiday Show [VIDEO]
Jayce Williams, a senior Music Industry major from 4333, a student-run music collective, tells us about his fundraising holiday show featuring Tigers Jaw, Oso Oso, Twentythreenineteen, Sweetpill and Typopro. The show raised more than 400 cans of food for the Glassboro Food Bank.
Like what you see? Register for a tour or open house.
LEARN MORE
Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Volunteerism at Rowan: Saint Bernard Project [VIDEO]
Students volunteer their time to the Saint Bernard disaster relief program, to repair and hurricane-proof houses damaged by Hurricane Sandy.
Through the summer First-Year Connection: Volunteerism program, incoming students — both freshmen and transfer — embrace togetherness and philanthropy to build community and provide service. Once the school year starts, the volunteerism continues. The Office of Volunteerism hosts monthly projects for five nonprofits, as well as a host of additional activities both on- and off-campus.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Don DeWitt, junior music technology major
Volunteerism at Rowan: Humane Society of Salem County [VIDEO]
Students volunteer at the Humane Society of Salem County, cleaning the facility, feeding the animals and most importantly: playing with the animals.
Through the summer First-Year Connection program, incoming students – both freshmen and transfer – embrace togetherness and philanthropy to build community and provide service. Once the school year starts, the volunteerism continues. The Office of Volunteerism hosts monthly projects for five nonprofits, as well as a host of additional activities both on- and off-campus.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Don DeWitt, junior music technology major
Volunteerism at Rowan: Ronald McDonald House [VIDEO]
Together with the Ronald McDonald House Southern New Jersey, students prepare and serve food for families in need.
Through the summer First-Year Connection: Volunteerism program, incoming students — both freshmen and transfer — embrace togetherness and philanthropy to build community and provide service. Once the school year starts, the volunteerism continues. The Office of Volunteerism hosts monthly projects for five nonprofits, as well as a host of additional activities both on- and off-campus.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Video by: Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Don DeWitt, junior music technology major
Volunteerism at Rowan: Food Bank of South Jersey [VIDEO]
Students work together with the Food Bank of South Jersey sorting and organizing food to provide for the food-insecure.
Through the summer First-Year Connection: Volunteerism program, incoming students — both freshmen and transfer — embrace togetherness and philanthropy to build community and provide service. Once the school year starts, the volunteerism continues. The Office of Volunteerism hosts monthly projects for five nonprofits, as well as a host of additional activities both on- and off-campus.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Video by:
Dean Powers, sophomore radio/TV/film major
Music by:
Don DeWitt, junior music technology major
First Year Voices: Public Relations Major Rachel Rumsby
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
First Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management Graduate Reflects on His Rowan Experience
Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
A Leader in Rowan’s First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program
Internship & Experiential Learning Stories Learn how Rowan Profs go Beyond the Classroom to grow professionally, as well as personally, through internships and other experiential learning. Experiential learning includes hands-on learning opportunities provided through research, student clubs, campus leadership, student worker jobs, service-learning projects and volunteerism. In addition, Rowan’s Office of Career & Professional Development provides career support that’s more than just […]
#PROFspective: Public Relations Major Serina Gonzalez
Today, we speak with Serina Gonzalez, a senior Public Relations major and Strategic Communication minor from Little Ferry, NJ (Bergen County) who lives on-campus. Serina will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she’s getting the most out of her college experience as a Rowan Prof.
Name: Serina Gonzalez
Year: Senior
Major: Public Relations
Minors: Strategic Communication
Hometown: Little Ferry, NJ (Bergen County)
Academic or social clubs: Volunteerism mentor, Animal Advocacy Club and the Dr. Harley Flack Student Mentoring Program
Why did you choose Rowan? After going on a tour of Rowan, I knew it was the school I wanted to attend. It stood out from the other schools I toured because it didn’t feel like anything was forced. People actually seemed genuine. It made me feel comfortable, and I wanted to be a part of that.
Did you ever have a moment of uncertainty within your major? How did you get through the challenge? I honestly never had a moment of uncertainty within my major. I feel like I found a subject that keeps me inspired. I would not have learned my passion for PR if I did not go through other majors’ courses.
What got you interested in your intended field? I began taking all communications courses and realized it wasn’t for me. I definitely needed to find a balance to a communications-oriented career, but allowed more flexibilty. I talked to my advisers who introduced me to public relations. I took Intro to PR and fell in love. I immediately switched my major.
Was there a specific mentor that you would turn to about your degree/field? How did they help you? My academic advisor for the ASCEND program, and everyone in that office, acted as my mentor for years. They helped introduce me to the program.
How has your overall experience been so far? What is your favorite accomplishment? Working in the Office of Volunteerism is really rewarding because it gives me exactly what I’m looking for. Later in life, I plan to be a teacher. Overall, the kids are always so happy and make my sad days so much better. I learn a lot from them … being a kid is a good thing.
What has been the most meaningful experience you’ve had while volunteering so far? One day, I was helping a little girl making cards for old people. While every other kid was working on their third card, she was still on her first. I looked at her card to see why it was taking her so long, and it was because her card was perfect. She’s a true artist.
What knowledge or skills have you developed through this opportunity that you will take with you for future endeavors? In the future, I plan on volunteering on the side. Volunteering taught me how to be a better person, even though it’s not only about being a good person. It’s just something you’re supposed to do.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story and photography by:
Alyssa Bauer, senior public relations major
Beyond the Classroom: A Leader in Rowan’s First-Year Connection Program
Meet Rose Dickmann from Mount Laurel, NJ (Burlington County), a transfer student from Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) who is majoring in Supply Chain and Logistics at the Rohrer College of Business. Rose was a student leader for this year’s Rowan’s First-Year Connection: Volunteerism Program. Today she will share with us her experience in the program and what she’s learned from being a student leader.
Every year entering students (freshmen and transfers) who have registered for the program arrive early on-campus for the Fall semester and participate in group activities run by Rowan’s staff members and upper-class student leaders.
In 2018, Rose decided to join the Rowan’s First-Year Connection Program to meet new people. She had just transferred from RCBC and saw that the program was an excellent way not only to meet new people, but to help in the community. “That’s one reason I was attracted to the program, because it was something different and interesting,” she said.
Rose had a great time last year as one of the participants in the program and she decided to return this year, but as a student leader. “I loved the program so much last year, that I wanted to make it a good time for this year’s new students,” Rose said.
This year there were four student leaders and they all had to work together in planning different types of activities for the participants to do during their free time. “We put together a scavenger hunt and some games,” she said.
The leaders had responsibilities to accomplish throughout the one-week program, like coordinating trips and arranging breakfast and dinner in between their service projects.
Some of the service projects that the student leaders and participants got a chance to volunteer at this year were: Food Bank of South Jersey, Saint Bernard’s Project for disaster relief, Little Owls Preschool at Rowan, Salem County Humane Society and the Ronald McDonald House Southern New Jersey.
The Little Owls project was one of Rose’s favorite places to volunteer. The Rowan Preschool is in James Hall. “We went in and cleaned their two classrooms. We helped them out with their deep clean day. Once we finished just about everything was all ready for them,” she said.
For Rose, being one of the student leaders for Rowan’s First-Year Connection Program is important. “To me personally it’s an opportunity to make students feel welcome on campus and to encourage them to get involved in volunteerism, to get involved just in general on campus and to make sure their transition to college is as smooth as it can be,” she said
Being a student leader has taught Rose to work along with other fellow leaders, bounce off ideas from one another and how to make plans in a group where everyone agrees.
“I really loved getting to know my fellow leaders more and getting to know the participants,” Rose said.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story by:
Iridian Gonzalez, senior journalism major
- Alumni
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Journalism Alumna Tells Her Story of Giving Back
Calista Condo, a 2008 alumna, has made her way from working at Rowan’s The Whit student newspaper to her role as an outreach specialist for Temple University’s Career Center. She has Rowan’s Journalism department to thank for her communication skills and her ability to transmit information to the public.
Condo began her journey as a commuter from Deptford, New Jersey (Gloucester County). At her time at Rowan, she studied Journalism with a concentration in editing and publishing. She also had a minor in Art with a concentration in photography. Classes such as Media Studies and News Reporting impacted her professional career. Within those classes she learned how to analyze our society and the way we view media. She developed a close relationship with Professor Kathryn Quigley, who was not only one of her favorite professors, but the faculty advisor for The Whit.
She also met her husband at Rowan!
While at Rowan she also participated in two intensive internships. The first was an internship with Next City, a nonprofit organization about city planning. She was an art intern whose main job focused primarily on copy editing and design editing for their magazine.
She then ventured on to intern for the South Jersey Times as a photojournalist. According to Condo, both internships were amazing experiences that really prepared her for the field of journalism. In fact, the South Jersey Times appreciated her efforts so much that they offered her a part-time job after her graduation in 2008.
In the midst of working for the South Jersey Times, she developed a strong connection to her community. She started volunteering for a nonprofit youth soccer organization in Camden. After some time of volunteering, she became a board member for this organization and eventually helped run the program.
Her passion for community, volunteerism and youth, in addition to her keen communication skills, led her to eventually begin working for Big Brothers, Big Sisters. While working there, she helped recruit volunteers for their school-based programming. Through this organization she worked with student organizations all over, one of them being the Temple University Career Center.
After this long journey of giving back, Condo eventually landed a position with the Temple University Career Center as an outreach specialist for employer partnerships. In this position, she helps students find employment through career fairs and special events.
Her time at Rowan, especially as a Journalism major, made her able to look at information and make it digestible to the public. She believes, “Journalists are some of the most intelligent people [she] has ever known, which makes them so versatile and with those important communication skills, they can settle into any position with ease.”
She still holds the fun and goofy times, working late at night for The Whit, near and dear to her heart.
Like what you see, come visit us!
Story by:
Chad Wittmann, senior journalism major
Photos courtesy of: Calista Condo
#PROFspective: Psychology Major Nicole Grant
Today, we speak with Nicole Grant, a junior psychology major from Cherry Hill, NJ (Camden County) who lives on campus in 230 Victoria Street. Nicole will share her #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how she gets the most out of her college experience as a Rowan […]
#RowanPROUD Philanthropy at the Beach
At approximately 6:50 a.m. on a Saturday morning this fall, 85 students started lining up at the front patio outside the Student Center. What were they here for? A queue for breakfast? Concert tickets? The new iPhone? Nope. They were here to sign in for Beach Sweep 2017, a statewide initiative led by Clean Ocean […]
5 Ways Your Major Can Give Back This Season
It’s that time of year again. When my phone rings with calls from what feels like 100 family members, asking what I want for Christmas. And this year, I have a very different answer. I am so appreciative of the things, material and not, that I have. A wonderful family, an awesome internship, and the […]
#PROFspective: Management, Marketing & HR Management Major Ryan Klohr
Today we speak with Ryan Klohr, a senior triple major (management, marketing and human resources management) from Ocean Township, Monmouth County, who lives off campus. Ryan will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how he’s getting the most out of his college experience as a […]
Thanksgiving “Adopt A Family”
If you think donating just one can of food to Rowan’s Thanksgiving “Adopt a Family Service” didn’t go a long way, well, we’ve got news for you. This year, the Rowan community donated enough food to help assist 156 families, breaking last year’s record of 120 families! Giving back must be our middle name. Every […]