d e t p i r Unsc December 2014 | Waynesburg.edu
Who will I become?
RYAN DEVLIN, 2007 GRADUATE, EDUCATION ______________________________
Q&A
Gain insight from faculty and learn about current students pgs. 2-3
_____________ Internships Discover how two of spent their summer pg. 3
_____________ “...I wanted to do something that would enable me to Moesha Godwin shares how she knew Waynesburg was right for her pg. 4
_____________ Study Abroad
Learn how our students discovered themselves on their journeys abroad pg. 5
Ryan Devlin, a 2007 Waynesburg University secondary English education alumnus, was recently named Pennsylvania’s 2013 “Teacher of the Year.” “The current and recently retired faculty members at Waynesburg University are very proud of Ryan’s accomplishments,” said Debra Clarke, assistant professor of education and chair of the Education Department at Waynesburg University. “The mission of the Education Department is to prepare teachers who embrace learning and dedicate themselves to service and leadership in the profession. Ryan
High School, has known since the age of 8 what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.
“I spent a lot my childhood and adolescent years daydreaming about the type of teacher I wanted to become,” he said. “Teaching seemed like the perfect outlet for my creativity, and I wanted to do something world.” After graduating from Waynesburg, Devlin was hired as an English teacher at Brockway Area High School in his hometown of Brockway, Pennsylvania. In 2009, he completed his master’s degree in Education and soon after was hired as the chair of Brockway’s English Department. On top of teaching and coaching cross country (a program he created at Brockway in 2008), he now oversees the curriculum, plans professional development and analyzes student data for the English Department.
December 2014 | Unscripted Newsletter
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DIRECTOR’S NOTE
GREETINGS FROM WAYNESBURG!
The entire Admissions Office is excited about the possibility of having you become a student at Waynesburg University! Our office is here to be a resource for you as you make this major decision in your life. I know when I was deciding on what school to call “home” for four years, I felt overwhelmed. If you utilize your admissions counselor and the resources that we can provide, we can help you avoid feeling this way.
Jessica Sumpter Director of Admissions Northwestern Pennsylvania Contact: jsumpter@waynesburg.edu
We will walk you through specifics of your major, connect you with faculty members, answer questions in regards to scholarship opportunities and show you what it will be like to be a student here. The admissions team is available by phone, e-mail and in person. Please utilize our office as much as possible, and I assure you that your decision will be made with more ease. If you have not scheduled a visit to our campus, I highly encourage you to do so. This visit will give you a true understanding of your opportunities at Waynesburg University and how your four years here will shape you to achieve greatness. Schedule your visit at www.waynesburg.edu/visit. We welcome your questions, comments and concerns, and we look forward to speaking with you as you make your college decision. Blessings, Jessica Sumpter Director of Admissions
ENROLL ONLINE AT www.waynesburgunited.com/enroll
Meet the Admissions Counselors
FACULTY INSIGHT
Evonne Bauldauff Chemistry
Renee McElligott
Dave Floyd
Central Pennsylvania West Virginia Maryland Contact: rmcellig@waynesburg.edu
Westmoreland County Eastern Pennsylvania Northeast Region Texas Contact: dfloyd@waynesburg.edu
Sr. Assoc. Director of Admissions
Assistant Director of Admissions
How do you hope to make a difference in the lives of your students? Aside from doing all we can to prepare them for a successful career, I always try to really listen to what my students say and take an interest in their lives. We truly want to be a department where our students can benefit from personal attention and a sense of community. What morals or values do you strive to incorporate in your daily life? Compassion, justice, forgiveness and integrity.
Bob Barnhart
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Matt McNeil
Admissions Counselor
Admissions Counselor
Greene and Fayette Counties Ohio Contact: rdbarnha@waynesburg.edu
Washington County Southeast, Midwest, Southwest and West Regions Contact: mmcneil@waynesburg.edu
December 2014 | Unscripted Newsletter
What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned? To be content with life. I think of the hymn “It is Well with my Soul,” and it brings my heart much peace. What’s one thing you would want to say to future WU students? Use your time in college wisely: study hard, make connections and take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities available at WU.
Mike Cipoletti Forensic Science
What is your teaching philosophy? I think students learn better by actively participating in the process. I try to spend less time lecturing and more time engaging students in practical problem solving and discussion. Why did you choose a teaching career? In my former career I testified frequently as an expert witness in court and spent a significant amount of time training new scientists. I really enjoy the process of helping people understand or discover new concepts. What is special about Waynesburg University? We have the ability to provide many of the opportunities major institutions offer and combine that with the individual attention that only a small school can deliver. What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned? Regardless of talent, skill or starting position, all successful people have one trait in common – persistence.
A PASSION FOR POLITICS
When Colin Philips wasn’t meeting with prominent legislators and government leaders this summer, he was helping with constituent affairs in Ohio Governor John Kasich’s office. The junior history and political science major interned as the public liaison for Governor Kasich. Along with handling his daily duties, Philips also gained valuable experience in a political office during a campaign year because of the timing of his internship. “My favorite experience was meeting with State Representative Batchelder, whose son is a history professor at Waynesburg,” Philips said. “I had time to talk with him about Waynesburg University in front of the other interns.” Philips felt confident in his internship skills, knowing Waynesburg University prepared him to work and interact as a young professional. Philips’ main duties were helping with constituent affairs in the Governor’s office and manually entering information from petitions into the computers.
Colin Philips History and Political Science major
Philips educated himself thoroughly on government affairs before taking on the role of intern. He contributes credit to Richard Waddel, professor of political science, who taught him to always be knowledgeable of other topics while at work and how to form lasting relationships.
STUDENTS TELL ALL
Taylor Garrett Secondary Mathematics Education major
How have your classes prepared you for your career? For the field experience required as an education major, I have observed current high school math teachers and which styles and methods of teaching work in their classrooms. Observations give me a great perspective on how to conduct my own classroom in the future. When you aren’t hitting the books, what do you do? I love to de-stress by going on a run with a friend. Also, I am really excited about the opportunity to go on outdoor trips with the newly formed scouting group, Venture Crew 1849. If you could go back in time and give one piece of advice to your freshman self, what would it be? It’s never too early to start preparing – for anything. The sooner you can get your foot in the door and get an internship or sign up for a mission trip, the better. It is also so important to stay on campus during the weekends. The times that you bond most with your friends is when you spend time together outside of the busy school week.
Luckily, Philips is well-versed in Ohio politics as a result of last summer’s internship with Rep. Pat Tiberi from Ohio, as well as his many meetings, tours and classes as a Stover Scholar at Waynesburg. “My studies at Waynesburg, and especially the Stover Center, have provided me with knowledge of how one really makes an impact on those around them in a short period of time,” he said. “My studies allowed me to be knowledgeable with the things I worked on, while experiences with politicians through the Stover Center allowed me to see how to be most effective while in a political office.” The Stover Center promotes understanding of the Constitutional and moral principles at the heart of democracy, providing promising students with a unique preparation for lives of leadership and impact. Each year, distinguished incoming students at Waynesburg University are selected to receive Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership Scholarships. These students receive $5,000 each year to apply toward tuition, up to an additional $500 toward the cost of conferences, and up to $1,000 to defray the costs of an internship.
Student’s internship sparks new ambition After a fire has struck a home, it is up to the county’s fire marshal to visit the scene, investigate the damage and determine the cause of the fire. Most people may find this job intimidating, but Robin Ferko finds it thrilling.
Trenton Bromenschenkel
Biochemistry major
What is your favorite Bible verse and why? 1 Timothy 4:12 reminds me that my conduct should be exemplary at all times and should encourage others to act uprightly as well. What has been the most rewarding part of attending Waynesburg University? The connections I have made at Waynesburg are amazing, from physicians to business leaders to professors. Have you had any internships? If so, what? During summer 2013, I interned at UC Davis Hospital in the Premedical Surgical Internship, Mentorship, and Research Program. I worked at an orphanage clinic in Vicente Guerrero, Mexico, during summer 2014. How have you grown stronger in your faith during your time as a student? Finding resources to develop your faith at Waynesburg University is easy to do. You are sure to find people of like mind that are open to discussing fields of thought and faith in general. If you can’t find something you like, form a new group!
Robin Ferko Forensic Science major
Ferko spent her summer months as an intern for the Allegheny County Fire Marshal in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A senior forensic science major, Ferko found herself applying what she had learned at Waynesburg University into her everyday duties and responsibilities. As an intern, Ferko was on constant call in case of a fire emergency.
In one case, Ferko and the team found evidence of arson. “Someone got arrested based on the evidence we collected,” she said. “It was amazing to be able to contribute in that way and see my work make a difference.” When arriving at a scene, she examined the buildings affected by fires to detect fire hazards and ensure that federal, state and local fire codes were met. As an investigator, she helped to determine the origin and cause of fires by digging through debris, taking photographs and sketching out the scene. Ferko attributes her professors, who are committed to hands-on learning, and interactive classes at Waynesburg for providing her with the foundation she needed to examine fire scenes. “It is one thing to have mock crime scenes and practice at school, but it is another to actually put the tape on and collect evidence that will go to the lab,” said Ferko. “My studies at Waynesburg University definitely prepared me for the fire scenes I encountered.” From her internship, Ferko developed a passion for fire investigation. “I really want to pursue this as a career after college,” said Ferko. “I like it because every work day is different and you are always using your mind to figure things out. It involves constant learning.”
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FRESHMAN PROFILE
Moesha Godwin
“God led me in the right direction” Growing up in the Bronx, New York, Moesha Godwin is used to hearing various noises, including sirens and horns coming from right outside her bedroom window. But from her dorm room in Burns Hall, Godwin says it’s nothing but peace and quiet – and she loves it.
At Waynesburg, Godwin is a Bonner Scholar as well as a member of the forensic science club. In her spare time, Godwin volunteers at the WWJD Center as well as the Waynesburg Senior Center. “While at school, I wanted to stay in touch with God while helping others,” said Godwin. “Waynesburg’s mission along with the infinite amount of opportunities it gives students to serve allows me to do so.”
“When applying for colleges, I wanted something that was peaceful and relaxing,” said Godwin. “When I came for a visit, I fell in love with the campus and knew it was exactly what I was looking for.” The forensic science major said the faculty and students at Waynesburg made her transition to college life easy. “I love the people here,” said Godwin. “Everyone is so nice and welcoming. The sense of community found at Waynesburg has really made my experience thus far at college worthwhile.”
In the near future, she plans to travel with the University to one of the international service agencies. Godwin said she is happy she is able to serve and grow closer to God while at Waynesburg. “In my opinion, Waynesburg is the best college,” said Godwin. “I know from my experiences so far that I made the right choice and God led me in the right direction.”
MISSION TRIPS With unlimited opportunities to serve, Waynesburg students take advantage of their Christian mission and have fun doing it. Whether you are interested in traveling outside of the country or helping the local community, there is need within every mile. This semester, students will take their compassion around the globe to inspire change and lend a helping hand. With more than 50,000 hours of community service completed annually, Waynesburg students continually answer the Lord’s call, living out His word from the scripture:
Fall and Winter 2014 trips include:
“For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.’” -Deuteronomy 15:11
• The Pittsburgh Project: Pittsburgh, Pa. • Greene County Immersion: Greene County, Pa. • Mission Academy Ministries: Nassau, Bahamas • Trans World Radio: Bonaire • Children’s Nutrition Center: Patzun, Guatemala
“Partnering with God through service in the Dominican Republic for the past two years has afforded me the opportunity to see God’s heart in such a beautiful way. The fact that I have the opportunity to join in loving God’s people in a tangible manner is an incredible honor. It is always a joy to share the same love of God that has transformed my own life with the amazingly beautiful people of the Dominican Republic.” - Mary Spencer, senior English major from Allison Park, Pennsylvania.
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December 2014 | Unscripted Newsletter
“The Pittsburgh Project was a great experience, not only in the work done, but in the way it showed me why service projects like this need to be done. A lot of statistics exist on urban blight, poverty and the issues that affect urban America, but they were just simply numbers to me until I participated in this class. Now they are symbolic of a massive crisis, one that can only be solved by the effort and commitment of a collaborative community.” - Craig Collins, sophomore biology major from Carmichaels, Pennsylvania.
COLIN NELSON
STUDY ABROAD
WHAT: Northumbria University, a partner institution of Waynesburg WHERE: Newcastle Upon Tyne, England - approximately three hours, by train, from London WHY: Studying abroad was always something I wanted to be a part of my college experience. WHEN: Spring Semester 2014
“My major is international studies, so spending time in another country was a big part of what I wanted to do academically. I lived with other students from all over the world, and going through my study abroad experience with people who spoke different languages and had different backgrounds was very enriching. I learned a lot about different cultures.”
CCCU Best Semester Programs American Studies Program Australia Studies Centre China Studies Program Contemporary Music Center India Studies Program Latin American Studies Program Los Angeles Film Studies Center Middle East Studies Program Oxford Summer Programme Scholars’ Semester in Oxford Uganda Studies Program Washington Journalism Center www.bestsemester.com
REBECCA SHINDELAR WHAT: I volunteered through Projects Abroad at a state-run orphanage. I also took courses through Seattle Central Community College. My studies focused on adoption policies in Romania and examined how the country’s welfare system has been influenced by the past communist regime. WHERE: Brasov, Romania WHY: I have always desired to see more of the world and better understand the way other countries run their government systems. Serving others in a different environment where I could learn about the culture and history has been one of my lifelong passions. WHEN: May to June 15, 2014 “I was blessed with the incredible opportunity this summer to travel to Brasov, Romania, through the Vira I. Heinz Scholarship. It was certainly challenging, but very rewarding and fulfilling. I learned of the value of human life through the interactions that I had with disabled children in an orphanage. Through their smiles and progression in development, I found true and lasting joy. The language and the culture of the country were intriguing, and I picked up some of the Romanian language as well! I stayed at a homestay with a Romanian family and learned the value of love, friendship and cooking. Through my experiences, I made lifelong friends. In my struggles, I found a new passion in the way I live for God! I have been transformed and have learned much more than I can say through words! I will remain grateful and changed by this past summer of service and growth!”
December 2014 | Unscripted Newsletter
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AT-A-GLANCE OF GRADUATES WORKING OR STUDYING IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELD
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Who will I become?
Amy Mina
APPLY FOR ADDITIONAL COMPETITIVE MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS BY JAN. 9! Visit SCHOLARSHIPS.WAYNESBURG.EDU
to apply for Amy Mina, writer for a primetime cable news program on the Fox Business Network and 2011 Waynesburg University alumna, proved that passion, dedication and unrelenting faith can lead to a dream job. “It’s very rewarding to see your work on air,” said Mina, who writes for the Willis Report. “We spend about an hour compiling news articles and guest ideas before the planning meeting each morning. Our team is really comfortable with each other, so it’s usually pretty fun mapping out how the show is going to run that night.” She is responsible for pitching stories, producing segments, writing scripts, completing in-depth research, generating reporter hits and creating graphics. “The job is exciting and fast-paced with an emphasis on financial markets and business news,” Mina said. “I enjoy the 24-hour news cycle and the responsibility of holding our elected officials accountable.”
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She believes that the skills she learned as a communication major at Waynesburg University equipped her for her position. As a regular in the University’s recently renovated television studio, Mina felt prepared to meet the job head-on and make a name for herself in the Big Apple. “Students interested in a career in television have countless avenues from which to choose, and Waynesburg University offers classes and experiences in all of those avenues and allows students to use the facilities in their free time to practice,” Mina said. “As a student, I had the opportunity to work my way up from crewing newscasts and remotes to producing, anchoring and eventually managing the station. You can’t have better preparation than that.”
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