Ohio University Eastern Graduates

Marta Bos

2023 Outstanding Program Graduate for Exercise Physiology

Degree: Bachelor of Exercise Physiology

Hometown: Barcelona, Spain

What are your next steps or plans for the future?
I plan on attending a BS to BSN program to become a Nurse, and eventually apply to medical school in the future.

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Eastern - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

Two of the instances that made me say to myself "I have got this!" where: 1. I was a Freshman at Dr. June's English and Rhetoric class, and she assigned us to write about music. I remember being really nervous when I submitted my paper, because it was my first real college assignment, and English is not my first language. I was super proud of myself after seeing the grade that she gave me, but on top of that, she congratulated me and my writing after class. 2. I was a freshman at professor Whitlinger's Biology class. I was taking my first college final Exam. I really liked this class, but exams have always made me nervous. I felt really proud once I saw my final grade. It showed me that to succeed in college you need to pay attention in class and invest some time to study. These two moments as a freshman made me feel that I could do it.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?
OHIO Eastern allows students to get an excellent education at a lower cost compared to other universities. Also, the fact that I was able to live with family and commute saved me room and board cost.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?
I believe all the professors that I have had from preschool up until now, whether I liked them or not, have made an impact in my life. On the other hand, I would like to mention Dr. June, professor Whitlinger, Dr. Waters, Dr. L, Dr. Prather, Professor Flynn, professor Ebbert, and my advisor throughout most of my time here at OUE, Jennifer Kellner-Muscar. Without them, my college experience would not have been as pleasant as it has been.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

I believe that the hardest hill I had to climb at OHIO Eastern was attending classes during the Covid-19 pandemic. For me, it all started with joy because we had been noticed that our Spring break would be extended. However, the world turned dark shortly after that. It was such a sad time for everyone, people were dying, the stores were running out of essential items, and I knew that I was not going to be able to visit my family in Spain. It was hard to pay attention in class through a screen, especially when my mind was occupied with all the events that were taking place all over the world.

Jenna Cunningham

2023 Outstanding Program Graduate for Nursing

Hometown: St. Clairsville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

I am the Vice President of the 2023 BSN Class, and a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nursing.

Preceptors: Anica Lease and Caitlin Groves, WVU Wheeling Hospital, Women's Services - Mother-Baby
 
What are your next steps or plans for the future?

My next step after graduating with my BSN is to pass my NCLEX boards and become a Registered Nurse! I hope to work on the Mother-Baby unit that I am currently employed on because I really enjoy it and have found my passion in nursing.

Why did you choose to major in Nursing at OHIO Eastern?

It was close to home, and I loved the idea of smaller class sizing. Before the program started, I came for an “Open House”, and ever since that night, I knew it would be my home for the next 4 years. Most of my family are Bobcat Alumni as well!

Who were your favorite professors or preceptors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Every nursing faculty member was very helpful in the last 4 years. They all gave us their undivided time, knowledge, and encouraged us to be the best nurses we can be. A special thanks to Professors Dr. Susan Dowell and Kayla Lucarelli for inspiring me and sparking my interest in the Maternity-Newborn and Pediatric units. As well as a big thank you to the Mother-Baby unit and the nurses for taking me in and precepting me. I truly found my passion because of all of you.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

Nursing in general has been very challenging, but extremely worth it. I had endless support from my family and friends, and I am very grateful for that. I also knew that if I was having a hard time, any of the nursing faculty would be there to help me whether it was just to talk or to give advice. I took one day at a time and reminded myself of my goals and why I started!

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

My favorite memories have to include all the fun times with my classmates. Even though the time we all spent together was usually during classes or labs, there was never a dull moment, and we all knew how to make each other laugh when we needed it most.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

Don’t miss out on all OHIO Eastern has to offer and the events that go on. Take advantage of the big moments, but also the little moments like sitting in the lounge doing homework or spending time with classmates. Time definitely flies in college, so enjoy every minute of it!

Alana Hogue

Hometown: Lewisville, Ohio
 
Degree:  Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

My plans for the future include having a classroom of my own. I can’t wait to create a little home for my students where they feel safe, loved and can learn. I have loved student teaching and will miss my students so much, but I am excited for the next adventure.

Why did you choose to major in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at OHIO Eastern?

I chose to major in Early Child Education because I have always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was just a little girl. I can still remember playing “school” with my friends as little girls, where they would always insist that I play the role of the teacher. In real school, my grade-school teachers made learning magical. I loved going to school and can recall many amazing memories and experiences that my teachers created for my classmates and myself. I want to give back and give my students those same experiences that I had when I was once a student.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

I had many great professors at OHIO Eastern. It’s so hard to choose just a few. Dr. Neuschwander, or Dr. N, as we called her, is a truly incredible woman. As a person who has always suffered from “math anxiety,” she was able to completely change my outlook on mathematics. Her whole approach to teaching is hands-on and super engaging for students. More importantly, she is the kindest and sweetest woman ever. I was so sad to leave her classes. Another outstanding professor I’ve had is Mrs. Ciroli. She is someone who you can truly count on. She let us know that she truly cared about her students and was always happy to help us. Mrs. Ciroli was always that professor that you could go to if you ever needed help or just someone to talk to.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill I had to climb was definitely passing my tests for my teaching licensure. I had to study and study and study and study again. Hours and hours of studying and flashcards. The EDTPA, to be more specific, was very challenging. However, after lots of hard work and even a few tears, I was able to pass my tests.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

Over the last four years, I have created so many wonderful memories at Ohio Eastern. Some of my favorites include our Thanksgiving “feasts” in Mrs. Ciroli’s room, our Secret Santa gift exchanges in Mrs. Ciroli’s class, hanging out in the lounge with Cheyenne and Helen, and getting Chipotle and Starbucks with Cheyenne and Helen on our breaks.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

I would tell a new OHIO student not to miss Fall Fest on campus. It’s a really fun day to spend with your friends. The school provided free Chipotle and Kirke’s Ice Cream for lunch last fall. There’s games and giveaways, as well. You also get an opportunity to walk around and learn about the different clubs and organizations on campus.

Karleigh Macardle

Hometown: Adena, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood Education

Minor: Social Service

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

My next plans are to start the process of life after college and begin my career as an educator. The goal for the near future is to start traveling and seeing other places throughout the world. I want to see what the wide world has to offer.

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Eastern - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

When I finally got into my groove as a college student after high school. It was a learning curve, but it is one that I will treasure forever, and it only made me a better person and student.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

I wanted to stay close to my family as I went through college, which was the perfect choice for me.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Professor Jeanie Dalton, she was truly a wonderful professor and truly cared about her students. I always looked forward to her class! Dr. Jacqueline Yahn was another professor who I will forever be grateful to. She helped me during the process of changing my major and was the professor of multiple education classes that I was in over the course of my time in the major! It is because of my time at OHIO Eastern that I was able to meet them and many other professors who left a real impact on my life and for that I will be forever grateful.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill that I had to climb was the difference between college and high school. However, once I learned my new normal, the process became much more interesting, fun, and informative instead of truly overwhelming.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

I have multiple memories that I will treasure forever from my time at OHIO Eastern. However, the biggest one is the relationships that I was able to make from my time there. Also, the reality is that because I went to school at OHIO Eastern, I was able to make more memories with my family during my college experience. That is something that I would have missed out on if I went away to school so for that I am truly grateful.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO Eastern student not to miss?

Remember to try to make new friends during your time at OHIO Eastern. The reality is that we often miss out on friendships that can last a lifetime because we are nervous, scared, and distracted so try to fight that by making new connections and friendships that can last a lifetime.

Lauren Roe

2023 Outstanding Program Graduate for Social Work

Hometown: Salesville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work

Why did you choose to complete your bachelor’s degree at OHIO Eastern?

I began my journey at OHIO Eastern because it was close to home, and I was unsure of what I wanted to major in. I chose to complete my degree here because of the Social Work program and the professors I met. I cannot say enough good things about OHIO Eastern’s professors and their willingness to help their students.  

Who were your favorite professors or field placement colleagues and how did they make an impact on your life?

I could never choose between Dr. Greenlee, Dr. Galbreath, and Professor Pritchard because they have all helped me. But, I will say that Dr. Greenlee made me believe in myself and my abilities more than anyone else. I will always appreciate him for that.

What is your favorite OHIO memory?

My favorite memories started in the Café, where I spent my freshman year making friends and laughing. I also really enjoyed participating in the St. Clairsville Christmas Parade for the past two years and handing out candy.

Hunter Carpenter

Hometown: Barnesville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood Education

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

Obtain a job and start my career.

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Eastern - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

When COVID ended and I could get back in the classroom.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

The tuition was cheap!

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Dr. Whitlinger

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

Spring and Fall fests in the lounge.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO Eastern student not to miss?

Don't miss the festivals, free food, and prizes!

Laine Fankhauser

President of Nursing Class

Hometown: Shadyside
 
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Preceptor: Sarah Parker, WVU, Wheeling Hospital Pediatrics
 
What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I plan to work with my RN and go back to school to get my master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner.

Why did you choose to major in Nursing at OHIO Eastern?

I was able to get my bachelor’s degree at an affordable cost while still working.

Who were your favorite professors or preceptors and how did they make an impact on your life?

If I HAD to pick, probably Kayla Lucarelli just because I’ve known her before I started the nursing program, BUT I love them all. They’re all very helpful and want you to succeed.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill I’ve had to climb would be going to school full time and working full time. I learned really fast how to juggle a full schedule and that I figured out what would motivate me through my busy times, vacation at the end of each semester.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

Being apart the first nursing class definitely made the college experience fun because we always got to get our pictures taken. We had different organizations come talk to us, and got to work through the new program as it was fine tuned. We were even given the opportunity to provide personal feedback on what we liked and didn’t like!

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

Don't miss out on any opportunities to make a memory and I would tell new nursing students to take advantage of studying sessions with your peers. 

Andrea Hukill

Hometown: Martins Ferry, OH
 
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Preceptor: Jessica Reinacher, WVU, Wheeling Hospital ICU

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

Work in the ICU and eventually return to CRNA school or ACNP school.

Why did you choose to major in Nursing at OHIO Eastern?

I wanted to obtain my BSN to start my career as a nurse, the closest schools around me offered ADN.

Who were your favorite professors or preceptors and how did they make an impact on your life?

I feel like it is unfair to name one so I will list my top three. Susan Dowell, Matt Fox and Kayla Lucarelli. My preceptor Jessica Reinacher was an incredible nurse to learn from. She is a very good nurse and taught me so much. She made me feel confident the whole time. The experience was great because of her.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

I had many consistent challenges to overcome during the last four years. I have four children, two of them are toddlers under the age of four. I had one of them while in the program. I also had to hold a job and two jobs towards the end in order to stay afloat. It was not easy being a mom, a wife, working and being in nursing school. BUT I overcame this by continuing to push forward and giving up was not an option. I set goals for myself and continued to push for them. Not only am I graduating nursing school on time, but I am also proud to say I was accepted into and now a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau international honors society.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

Driving Matt Fox crazy. Driving with my friends to Starbucks in between classes. Making new unexpected friends. I was so worried I was going to be “too old” for my classmates but we all really have become so close.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

Speaking with Dean Rohall. He really is a nice person and interesting to speak with. After speaking with him on the float at the Barnesville Pumpkin parade and learning he plays guitar, I thought that was so cool.

Logan Knowlton

Hometown: Woodsfield, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

Some of my best memories I have made at Ohio University Eastern have been the relationships I have built with my classmates. Throughout our social work journey, we’ve been able to connect with one another and help each other along the way.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Throughout my time at OHIO Eastern I’ve met a lot of great professors, however Professor Pritchard and Dr. Galbreath have greatly contributed to my academic success. I have also had the pleasure of growing professionally alongside my wonderful colleagues through my field placement at Monroe County Children Services.

Kristen Rouse

2023 Outstanding Program Graduate for Middle Childhood Education

Hometown: Woodsfield, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Science Middle Childhood Education- Math & Social Studies

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I hope to secure a job in the coming months and begin to make a positive impact on today's youth!

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Eastern - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

After I passed all of my licensure exams to become a teacher in the state of Ohio, I finally realized that my dreams are becoming a reality.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

I chose Eastern because I wanted to stay close to home, save money, and begin my life with my high school sweetheart who is now my husband.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Dr. Yahn molded me into the emerging educator that I am! Thanks to Dr. Yahn, I have the professionalism, self-efficacy, competency, and tenacity needed to be a young teacher in today's world. Dr. Prather also had an immense impact on my knowledge and love for math! I had to learn what I was made of in his class but it only made me a better mathematician in the long run!

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill was when I had to begin student teaching in January of 2023. I had just became a mom four months prior and was still adjusting to our new life with a newborn. Many mornings I would be so sad to go to that I would cry much of my commute to the school I was placed at for my Professional Internship. It was so hard to leave that sweet little baby girl! Eventually with the encouragement and help from my family (especially my husband and sister) & lots of prayer, I was able to climb the mountain and come to enjoy my experience as a student teacher and grow exponentially as a professional.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

My favorite memories are going to Chipotle and Starbucks in between classes with my friends. Also, I enjoyed the snacks and coffee provided during finals week by the OHIO Eastern staff.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO Eastern student not to miss?

Don't miss the opportunities to get together with other students, especially those with the same major. You may just make a lifelong friend like I did during my years at OHIO Eastern.

Valarie Cooper

2023 Outstanding Program Graduate for Communication Studies

Hometown: Roseville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

My next steps are to decide on a career path. I don’t want to jump into the first organization that sends me an offer. I want to decide on somewhere I feel that I will grow, somewhere that pushes me to be my best self. Meanwhile, I am eager to enjoy some time off from studying and meeting deadlines! I am looking forward to spending time with friends and family.

Why did you choose OHIO?

I chose Ohio University because I knew I wanted to be a part of the prestigious Scripps College of Communication. And it did not disappoint! My professors over the years have been amazing and I really feel confident and knowledgeable in my field.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

My favorite professors were Dr. Sarah Mahan-Hayes and Dr. Pamela Kaylor. Dr. Sarah, as I’ve called her for years, was my favorite professor when I attended in-person courses at the Eastern Campus. She was also my advisor. Dr. Sarah has been there every step of the way for my time at OHIO Eastern and she helped me to revamp my resume and market myself. I’m not sure if she is aware, but because of her, I have secured more than one job offer! Dr. Kaylor easily became a favorite of mine when I started taking all my courses online. Through her, I learned so much about women’s empowerment and women’s rights. I attended the Women’s Conference she helped to organize, and it was so empowering. I admire her confidence and support for women.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

The one thing I would tell a new OHIO student not to miss is going to the events! I missed out on a lot of fun times, but I had a great time at the events I did go to. There is always something going on and something to look forward to. The giveaways and free food were always my favorites!
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Taylor Ferguson

Hometown: Beallsville, Ohio
 
Degree: Bachelor of Specialized Studies

Minor: Psychology

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I have always loved school because I have always loved to learn. After graduation, I plan to return for my master’s degree in English and potentially a bachelor’s in Psychology. However, I have set goals for myself to complete, I want to publish another book and a few other things before I return to school.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

The common answer is that “it is close to home”, but even during my tour the students and faculty in the school were amazing to interact with. Everyone on campus was willing to help anyone in need at any time. I was drawn in by the environment and the people on campus.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

During my time as an Ohio University student, I have taken courses from almost every campus. I have found that the professors that have had the biggest impact on me were my advisor, Jennifer Kellner-Muscar, and two of my English instructors, Dr. June and Dr. Vinci. Jennifer has always been incredibly helpful and kind, even when I was struggling. She has given me different opportunities and helped me along the way in my college journey. Dr. June was my first English professor at OHIO Eastern. She was always open to new ways of thinking, which, in turn, taught me to be more open minded. In the courses I took with her, I felt as though I was becoming a better person along with the English lessons. Dr. Vinci a wonderful instructor as well. He was patient. I only had him for one course, but he taught me a million new ways to view the world and everything around me, which is a lesson I could never repay.
 

Tell me about your internship experience. What is something you have learned that you feel will help you as you transition into your future career after graduation?

Throughout my internship I have learned a lot about editing and working with people in my field. It is interesting to work with people that have similar interests. It is not something I am used to. I think I am learning the most about communication in the workplace. I believe this internship will help me to prepare for my career by providing some experience in the field and teaching me valuable lessons about proper and effective communication.

What was biggest challenges or obstacles that you have had to overcome throughout your academic journey?

One of the biggest challenges for me has been my schedule. I consistently work two jobs at a time, sometimes more. Attempting to balance work and a full-time school schedule while trying to maintain a high GPA has proved to be a difficult task. Another challenge I have faced are my struggles with mental and physical health. With my work and school schedules, I did not make these priorities during my academic career. Even now, I spread myself too thin, trying to do everything at once.

What are your favorite OHIO memories?

Some of my favorite OHIO memories took place pre-COVID. Any day in Dr. June’s class was a good one. Even after the switch to digital coursework, many professors made class fun. Still, sometimes I missed the chatter and laughter in the cafeteria and the quite breaks in the library, working on my books and waiting for my next class of the day.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

I remember attending a play held by the drama students at OHIO Eastern. The plays are must-see events at any campus. However, I enjoyed the professors and student life more than anything.

Jordan Kazmirski

Hometown: St. Clairsville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work

Why did you choose to complete your bachelor's degree at OHIO Eastern?

I chose to complete my bachelor’s degree at Ohio University Eastern due to my own personal values. I am very family oriented and wanted to remain close to them. I am also big on self independence and work ethic. The Eastern campus was able to fulfill both of these for me. I love my community and this campus is a large part of it.

Who were your favorite professors or field placement colleagues and how did they make an impact on your life?

My favorite professors, by far, were Dr. Greenlee and Dr. Galbreath. Both of these professors were very involved in my success. I took some time off due to an unexpected pregnancy and mental health issues. However, they continued reaching out to me and encouraging me to finish my degree. They supported me immensely during my bachelor’s degree journey on a personal and educational level. They care about their students and the social work practice. I could never say enough good things about the both of them.

What is your favorite OHIO memory?

My favorite OHIO memory is when Dr. Greenlee came in and played his guitar for us social work students. It showed a personal, lighthearted side of him that helped us see his interests and skills outside of being a professor. It was very sweet and he was a very very good guitar player too!!

Helen Koucarmaris

Hometown:  Martins Ferry
 
Degree: Bachelor of Early Childhood and Elementary Education 
 
What are your next steps or plans for the future?

After graduation, my plan is to teach in an elementary school in the Ohio Valley.

Why did you choose to major in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at OHIO Eastern?

I chose to continue my education at Ohio University Eastern because of how close it was to home. It allowed me to save money while also having a college experience where I felt welcomed. Because of the class sizes, I gained close relationships with my professors which made my courses feel like a community.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Some of my favorite professors at Ohio University Eastern were Dr. Yahn, Professor Ciroli, and Dr. Neuenschwander. Each one made a profound and positive impact on my experience at OHIO Eastern and turned their classrooms into a community. Dr. Yahn pushed me to become a better student and I learned how to really focus on relating my work to my personal experiences in the Ohio Valley. Professor Ciroli taught me the foundations and what makes a teacher great. She gave me confidence in my work along with the confidence to teach students of any age. Finally, Dr. Neuenschwander taught me how to make learning engaging and fun for every student. She taught me how any lesson can be made into a hands-on experience so students see learning new and prior topics as fun!

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

I think that the hardest hill I had to climb was going through COVID classes online. Having a class online was never the same as being in the same room with someone which was a really hard thing for me. Thankfully, my classes were able to be moved back into the in-person setting for my senior year and I was able to be back in my student placements!

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

My favorite Ohio Eastern memory would have to be having a little celebration for the last class during the fall semesters. After COVID, the early education students decided that we wanted to take time after our last class together to celebrate with each other. Everyone would bring in a dish and we would sit back to eat and talk with each other. These little celebrations truly made us become so close with each other and I really looked forward to them.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

As a new student, definitely do not miss out on Bobcat Blitz! It is a super informational day where you can meet professors, get a view of the campus, and set up all the information you will need throughout your time at OHIO Eastern. It will help to ease your nerves before your first day on campus!

Maria Vincenzo

Secretary of ’23 nursing class

Hometown: St. Clairsville, OH
 
Major: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Preceptor: Danielle Stewart, WVU Wheeling Hospital, Emergency Department

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

After graduation, I plan on working at Wheeling Hospital in the Emergency Department for a year or year and a half then seek employment as a travel nurse. I eventually plan to further my education to get my master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner and work in the emergency room.

Why did you choose to major in Nursing at OHIO Eastern?

Close to home, affordable, one-on-one with professors.

Who were your favorite professors or preceptors and how did they make an impact on your life?

All the nursing staff at OUE is truly amazing and has helped me grow to be the best person and nurse I can be. Throughout the program, I was fortunate enough to meet Susan Dowell and I am greatly thankful for her and her help along the way of my nursing degree.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill I had to climb was the challenges of nursing courses along with working full-time. Time-management, dedication, and awesome professors is what helped with this obstacle.

What is your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

My favorite memories at OHIO Eastern are the numerous laughs my classmates and I have shared over the past four years, and I am truly grateful for them and my professors.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

Even though college can be hard and stressful, enjoy every moment with your classmates and professors. Don’t miss out on the opportunities that come your way. Trust me, time flies by and it’ll be done before you know it.

Lacey Cordery

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work

Hometown: Powhatan, Ohio

Why did you choose to complete your bachelor's degree at OHIO Eastern?

I was originally enrolled at the Athens campus, but after COVID, I wasn’t fully ready to move away from home. I then changed my major to Social Work. I like the feel of a smaller college; I’ve been able to build many great relationships!

Who were your favorite professors or field placement colleagues and how did they make an impact on your life?

Since being a Social Work major, I have built great rapport with many professors. However, Dr. Galbreath and Professor Pritchard have had a great impact with on my academic career. They have greatly encouraged my interest in social work!

What is your favorite OHIO memory?

I have many great memories at Ohio University. I worked on campus for several months, and I enjoyed participating and helping with on-campus events, like orientations and college tours! I enjoyed being able to provide my own feedback and experiences to new students!

Jarrod Heskett

Hometown: St. Clairsville
 
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Minor: Psychology

Certificates: CPR and Mental health first Aid

Preceptors: Abel Frohnapfel and Morgan Rice, WVU Wheeling Hospital, PACU
 
What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I plan on working as a Circulating Nurse then go to Physician Assistant (PA) School.

Why did you choose to major in Nursing at OHIO Eastern?

I wanted a bachelors degree and always wanted to help people.

Who were your favorite professors or preceptors and how did they make an impact on your life?

The whole staff was amazing, but I wanted to make a special shout out to Dr. Dowell and Kayla Lucarelli. They truly went above and beyond, and I wouldn’t have passed without them.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

This program can be difficult for nontraditional students, so the balance of school and work was very difficult but I managed through good professors and friends.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

All of my favorite memories were with my classmates. We’ve had some good laughs.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

I would urge every new OHIO Eastern student to not miss out on family just because of school. School is important, but family is forever.

Brianna Leach

2023 Ohio University Eastern Graduation Recognition Student Speaker

Hometown: Barnesville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Middle Childhood Education

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I have been teaching at the Union Local School District since completing my degree in December as the 6th – 8th grade problem solving teacher. I was also accepted to be a part of The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio’s Growing Home Fellowship. Through this opportunity, I hope to strengthen my leadership skills to provide opportunities and inspire the youth of our local communities over the next five years. I also plan to pursue a master’s degree in the mathematics field in the future.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

Ohio University Eastern is a great place to receive your education. It allowed me to stay close to family, as that is something that is very important to me. Ohio University Eastern values each and every one of their students. The smaller class sizes allow you to build relationships with your professors and peers and offer a high-quality education.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Dr. Yahn was my advisor. I also took many of her classes. She is an amazing professor, advisor, and support system for her students. She made an impact on my life by challenging me to grow and be more confident in my abilities. Tell me about your internship experience.

What is something you have learned that you feel will help you as you transition into your future career after graduation?

I had an amazing internship experience at St. Clairsville Middle School. I taught in a 7th grade mathematics class. I learned so much from my mentor, who was extremely supportive. She gave me many tools that I have used when transitioning into my own classroom that allowed me to feel the most prepared to lead my own classes.

What were the biggest challenges or obstacles that you have had to overcome throughout your academic journey?

I switched my degree two years into my college education. I also was a transfer student at OHIO Eastern. My biggest challenge was giving myself grace that it was okay to switch majors and pursue a degree that was fulfilling for me. I spent a lot of self-reflection to figure out what I wanted my future to look like and what career I wanted to pursue. After making these changes, I am grateful for where I am today and to be in a career that I love.

What are your favorite OHIO memories?

My favorite OHIO memories are during my fieldwork in virtual and in-person classrooms. During these times, I was reassured that I was studying to be in a career that I was passionate about.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

I would tell a new student not to miss out on opportunities to network and grow friendships throughout their academic career. I am grateful for the relationships, friendships, and memories I have made these past few years that will last a lifetime.

Jamie Price

Hometown: New Athens, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Specialized Studies

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

My immediate plans are to catch my breath. I have been working on this degree on and off for 32 years. I am just glad the end is in sight and am proud my wife, Tammy, and my sons get to see me reach this long-sought-after goal.

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

OHIO Eastern offers a wide variety of online classes. That was key for me as a non-traditional student with work and family obligations. Every instructor was accommodating in the aspect that they realized that balancing work and family, with things like sports for the children, and their educational obligations had to be a factor in an adult student’s education. OHIO Eastern was perfect for me in that regard.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

Dr. Kevin Spiker. He makes you want to be in class. He loves to interact with his students, and he is inclusive of all opinions and viewpoints. He is extremely gifted at boiling any issue down to how a student can relate to it, be it by using pop culture or other commonly known references, and thus, you grasp the concept he is trying to get across very easily. I tell every person, young or old, who is going to OHIO Eastern to take a class with Dr. Spiker at some point. You will not regret it and you will have fun.

What are your favorite OHIO memories?

At the age of fifty, I will walk away with a bachelor's degree I have been pursuing for 30+ years. OHIO Eastern made that possible and I will be forever grateful I chose to be a Belmont County Bobcat.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

Just the school in general. The staff and the instructors are top-notch and make sure you succeed if you give them your effort. Oh, and the ten percent discount at Wally’s pizza at the gas station.

Alexis Watson

Hometown: St. Clairsville, Ohio

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work

Certificate: UPP Program

What are your next steps or plans for the future?

I will be pursuing my career in child welfare in Jefferson County and working towards my master’s degree in social work

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Eastern - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

Taking statistics was one of the toughest things I had ever done in my academic career. I had to take this course during the pandemic, so I had no in-person instruction or assistance. However, with help from friends and family, I was able to push through it and pass the course!

Why did you choose OHIO Eastern?

I chose OHIO Eastern because I did not want to live on a campus. I knew I wanted to work towards a bachelor degree on a small, low-key campus without having to temporarily move.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?

My favorite professor is Dr.Galbreath. I had him for most of my social work courses, and he was always there to answer any questions in a timely manner. He has made a big impact on my college experience and my social work knowledge.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb at OHIO Eastern? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

The hardest hill I had to climb at OHIO Eastern was having to take full course load online during the pandemic. I was missing the social interaction between professors and other students that I would have had in the classroom. I overcame this challenge by pushing forward and telling myself that this is only a temporary situation.

What are your favorite OHIO Eastern memories?

My favorite memory at OHIO Eastern was when I was a freshman in 2019. I was meeting new people and making friends at the time. We always went to the events that were being held and hung out in the lounges during our free time.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO Eastern student not to miss?

One thing I would tell a new student is to not to miss out on the opportunity to socialize and make friends while you have the time.