La Vie Collegienne Vol. 85 Issue 10

LA VIE COLLEGIENNE LEBANON VALLEY COLLEGE’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1924 VOLUME 85, NO. 10 | MAY 2, 2018

Student remembered at induction ceremony

First class of Allwein Scholars graduate

VERONICA PETTYJOHN ’18 CO-EDITOR

JOLIE WINEMILLER ’19 STAFF WRITER

LVC hosted its annual Delta Alpha Pi induction ceremony in April where one special student was awarded his degree.

Gabriel Pfeiffer, known around campus as Gabe, is only the second student to receive his degree in Memoriam in school history. He became a member of Delta Alpha Pi in 2015, and he was only one semester away from graduating from LVC with a degree in English.

Pfeiffer passed away on June 30, 2017, at home on his 25th birthday.

He suffered from Alstrom Syndrome, which caused him to lose his sight, his hearing and his organs to fail.

Faculty, staff and students reflected on Gabe’s time at LVC and had much to say about the impact he left on the College.

“Losing Gabriel Pfeiffer, not only as a person for whom we cared deeply, but also from our campus community

Lebanon Valley College will celebrate its 149th Commencement; among those who will receive degrees include the first-ever graduates to be awarded the John Bowman Allwein Scholarship.

The John Bowman Allwein Scholarship is a full-tuition scholarship awarded to incoming freshmen and pays for four undergraduate years of study.

Students who receive the scholarship are chosen based on class rank and involvement in extra-curricular activities.

Nate Gibbons, a physics and mathematics major, was awarded the Allwein Scholarship in 2014. After graduation, he will pursue a PhD in Aerospace Engineering.

“Being selected as an Allwein Scholar was ultimately my deciding factor in coming to LVC, which I truly

Photo by: La Vie Staff ABOVE: Dean Green presents an honorary degree to the father of Gabriel Pfeiffer.

and from the community of the arts and letters creates a real hole in our creative and intellectual landscape,” Dr. Holly Wendt, assistant professor of English and director of creative writing, said.

Gabe had taken many of Wendt’s creative writing courses over the duration of his collegiate career.

Wendt spent time with Gabe not only as his instructor, but also as his

academic adviser. Having a creative writing concentration, the two collaborated on his creative writing portfolio for the required Capstone project.

“I remember Gabe’s excellent and witty sense of humor, as well as his interest in and talent for worldbuilding in his creative writing,” Remembered continued on Page 2

Allwein continued on Page 3

A letter from President Thayne

Well done, soon-to-be graduates!

This is your moment.

On behalf of the faculty and staff of Lebanon Valley College, I offer my congratulations to the Class of 2018. We are so proud of you, and we look forward to all that you will accomplish in your careers and in your lives.

The world is very different from how it was even a few years ago when you joined our campus community.

The challenges that you will work on

are vast and complex: social, medical, environmental, economic and political issues all require educated and ethical leaders who can make a lasting difference. Rapidly evolving technologies and innovations connect us all at any time and in any place throughout the world.

You are ready for it all. For you, the challenges present real opportunities to have an immediate impact on the world. You are prepared to communicate and collaborate, to

think and to solve problems, and to hit the ground running and start contributing to your fields right away—just as you’ve done during your time at LVC. Among you are Fulbright finalists, star student-athletes, accomplished musicians and writers, awardwinning researchers, volunteers and community change agents. All of you have had the privilege of being educated at one of the finest colleges in the United States and have, in turn,

enriched the world in our classrooms, on the field, onstage, and in labs, schools and fieldwork sites both near and far from campus.

Please know that the whole LVC community is rooting for you as you move into the next phase of your life.

And never forget that you are always welcome back to visit. Go Valley!

Warmly, President Lewis Thayne

INSIDE THIS ISSUE OF LA VIE

DREXEL BOUND PAGE 3

SENIORS FOR THE VALLEY FUND

PAGE 5

FUTURE ACCOUNTANTS PAGE 6

ATHLETIC STANDOUTS PAGE 8

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May 2, 2018

NEWS

La Vie Collegienne

Always a Dutchman: ways to stay involved Remembered SHILESKY MONTALVO ’19 STAFF WRITER There are countless ways for alumni to remain involved at The Valley and to support future Dutchmen.

The Office of Advancement offers ways in which an alumnus can donate and stay up-to-date with current events occurring on campus by receiving the monthly e-newsletter, among other benefits and services.

The Office of Advancement also allows alumni to recruit future Dutchmen by assisting an admissions counselor at a college fair, by requesting a poster to hang at a local high school and most importantly, by sharing their LVC experience with others. In addition, LVC alumni can serve on committees including the Scholarship Committee and the Awards Committee.

LVC has plenty of resources not only for alumni, but also for students.

Photo by: Shilesky Montalvo As an alumnus, one could become a mentor for current students.

ABOVE: LVC’s Laughlin Hall houses The Office of Advancement, which allows for LVC alumGraduating seniors can help current ni to donate to the school and stay informed with current campus events. students land internships at their smallest donation can make a differshould email alumni@lvc.edu or visit current employer. the website http://www.lvc.edu/alum Giving back to the College is like ence for future Dutchmen. giving back to your family. Even the For more information alumni ni-giving/.

Career assistance for alumni

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The Center for Career Development not only offers assistance to current students but also to LVC alumni who will transition into their career.

Senior year can be a time of excitement and anxiety about the future.

Many students apply to graduate school while others search for a career in their desired field. Whichever path a student decides to take, Career Development will help him or her in the process.

“Career Development assists students in preparing to transition and launch into life beyond LVC,” Brynn Mason, assistant director of career development, said. “We are here to help you connect your college experience to your career goals, providing you with information to empower you to pursue your path.”

For students planning to attend graduate school, the Center for Career Development helps with the research of programs, the decisions of which ones to apply to, the development of personal statements and preparation for interviews. After being accepted into a program, the next step is to de-

cide which one is best for the student.

“Often, students who are interested in graduate school will see [us] for recurring appointments throughout the process,” Mason said.

Many students opt out of graduate school to enter their choice of career after graduation. Career Development provides resources that will lead to a successful transition.

“We work with students on job search strategies, interview preparation, salary/contract negotiation and the overall transition into the professional workforce,” Mason said.

Career Development will help students review their resume, cover letter and application materials tailored to their job preference. All seniors are encouraged to set up a meeting to create a personalized strategy.

“The Career Center is a wonderful place to go if you are struggling with building a resume, or just in general with developing a career plan,” Veronica Pettyjohn, a senior English major, said. “They genuinely want students to succeed and will do whatever they can to help make sure that happens.”

Mason said students should keep their Handshake and LinkedIn profiles updated at all times. Students

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CHELSEA MOYER ’18 STAFF WRITER

and alumni can use the sites to search for employers and newly opened positions. Another important skill is networking, which can take place at job fairs and events.

Photo provided by: Family of Gabe Pfeiffer

ABOVE: Gabe Pfeiffer of Solesbury, Pa passed away on his 25th birthday.

Continued from Page 1

Wendt said. “He was a fun student to have in class, one who enriched the room and the conversation and had an incredible memory for detail.”

Julie Wiker, a senior English and German major, fondly remembers Gabe from the countless classes the two had together.

“Most people remember Gabe being very quiet, but when he had something important to say, he was un-

afraid to speak up and say it,” Wiker “We ask all students, seniors in par- said. “He was a funny, bright and a creticular, to consider how you are mar- ative individual.”

keting yourself,” Mason said. “[We] can Gabe’s presence at Lebanon Valhelp you practice telling your story ley College helped to raise awareness and fine-tune your interview skills.”

about accessibility for those with When asked if she had any advice sensory impairments. Dawn Showers, for graduating seniors, Mason said LVC’s former director of accessibility not to lose sight of your goals.

resources, developed a close relation-

“The next step will certainly not be ship with Gabe. your last step, and that is okay,” Mason “Gabe always had a warm smile said. “Your path will undoubtedly take and polite disposition even when he a few twists and turns after May, and wasn’t feeling well,” Showers said. “He that is to be expected.” will leave a lasting impression on LVC The Center for Career Development and the hearts of all who knew him.” is located in the lower level of Allan Gabe’s parents, Diane Johnson and W. Mund College Center. To schedule Steve Pfeiffer received Gabe’s degree an appointment call (717) 867-6560 on his behalf. It was an emotional moor send an email to career-develop- ment for those who attended the cerment@lvc.edu.

emony.

May 2, 2018

FEATURE

La Vie Collegienne

Dryden takes on Drexel

CASSANDRA BARRETT ’19 STAFF WRITER She always knew that she wanted to go to law school, and she has finally made that dream a reality.

Caitlin Dryden, a senior politics major, grew up with parents who were both in the legal field. Michael Dryden ’90, and Maria Elena Dryden ’90, always pushed their daughter to work hard and follow her dreams and were ecstatic to realize that her dream was to pursue a career in the legal field, just like them.

Her parents were even more excited to discover that Dryden had been accepted to the Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law. To add to all of the excitement, she was also the recipient of a full tuition scholarship.

Dryden is not only profoundly grateful to her parents for motivating and inspiring her to pursue a career in the legal field, but she is also thankful to Dr. Benesch, associate professor of politics and director of pre-law, for being a driving force on her path to law school. Dryden also credits her friends for being her biggest supporters while

reaching her goals.

“Truthfully I can’t thank my friends enough,” Dryden said. “Whether they know it or not, good or bad, every single one of them has played a part in pushing me toward my goals.”

Dryden is eager to begin her postgraduate career at Drexel University, and is now considering which field of law most interests her. She is currently interested in trial advocacy because she has always had an interest in advocating for others.

“I have a long way to go in deciding specifics but I’m excited to start working and learning within a more narrow scope toward my goals,” Dryden said.

Through her time at Lebanon Valley, Dryden has taken the opportunity to be involved both on and off campus.

She currently serves with the Valley Blue Coats, studied abroad in Maastricht, Netherlands and participated in the European Union Simulation in Washington D.C. She has interned with the Montgomery County Courthouse, the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania and La Torre Communications, to name a few.

Though Dryden is eager to look toward her future, she also takes time to look back on her time and experiences at LVC and to appreciate how far she has come as a student and individual.

“I am a drastically different person, in all the best ways, than I was when I stepped onto LVC’s campus four years ago,” Dryden said. “I’ve grown up a lot and I think the environment at LVC is something that helped me do that.”

Although Dryden anticipates being quite busy during the next three years at Drexel University, she still hopes to be an active alumna during law school and long after that. During her time at The Valley, Dryden has acquired valuable skills and learned many important lessons, all of which have guided her on her path to success.

After reflecting on the last four years, Dryden has a piece of advice to share with current and future Dutchmen to help them reach their goals and exceed their expectations.

“Don’t let yourself get weighed down by the idea of what the college experience should be,” Dryden said.

“Live it your own way, make mistakes, learn and grow.”

McCarty lands developer job

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LinkedIn has become a thread that knits students and employers together more than ever; this is true for senior computer and data science major, Chloe McCarty.

McCarty heard about WebpageFX when the president of the company contacted her via LinkedIn last summer. She was immediately intrigued and decided to further expand her knowledge on the digital marketing agency.

“With that one message, the company really caught my eye,” McCarty said. “Not only did they seem like a great place to work based on their ranking, but they also seemed really interested in me both as an individual and as a Dutchman.”

McCarty didn’t expect to work for an agency like WebpageFX, and pushed the idea of working there to the side until this past February. McCarty saw that the Center for Career Services was hosting a Pizza with Professionals with WebpageFX. After meeting the talent acquisition specialist for the agency at the event, the company further demonstrated their interest in McCarty as a candidate

had prepared me to land this job,” McCarty said. “The LVC Math Sciences department recognizes that a lot of companies look for this [ability to learn new skills quickly] in graduates and thus the department’s curricula have a strong emphasis on building up this skill.”

As a result, McCarty felt confident that the skills she learned would transfer well to her new job opportunity.

“Through them [Center for Career Development], I was able Photo provided by: Chloe McCarty to put together a professional ABOVE: McCarty hangs out at WebpageFX. resume, get tips on writing my for one of their positions. cover letter, receive feedback on “They got back to me within two what to wear for an interview and I days, and we scheduled a phone participated in the Mock Interviews interview, which went well and then the year before, which definitely made I had a written interview, long in- me more confident going into the job person interview and a coding test,” interview,” McCarty said. said McCarty.

The more McCarty learned about McCarty credits the Center for Career Development and the LVC Math WebpageFX and their company Sciences department for being helpful culture, the more she wanted to be a part of their team. With a few days through the job process.

“I definitely felt that all of the to go, McCarty is ready to start a new resources available to me at LVC chapter upon graduation.

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JANESSA CRUZ ’19 STAFF WRITER

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Allwein scholars continued from Page 1

believe is one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life so far,” Gibbons said. “Just being at LVC has given me so much, a fantastic education, lifelong friends and the chance to be a part of the men’s soccer family to name a few, and none of that would have happened here if not for the scholarship.”

Allwein scholars are also given a $2,500 stipend each year for research, travel or educational opportunities.

Ciara Marshall, a biology and molecular biology major, was also awarded the scholarship in 2014.

Marshall will pursue a summer research opportunity at Penn State Hershey Medical Laboratory and complete a year of research at the National Institute of Health before she pursues her M.D. “In the summer of 2016 I traveled to Spain to participate in the Atlantis Project,” Marshall said. “This program placed me in a hospital where I shadowed physicians in three fields of medicine otolaryngology, plastic surgeries, and maxillofacial surgery and in addition to receiving cultural education, I was permitted to observe surgery’s and experience the daily workday a career in surgery would imply.”

Allwein Scholar Andrew Meglathery, an actuarial science major, is also set to graduate in May. He plans to move to Chicago and work for Allstate Insurance company.

“This scholarship has helped me to realize how much of an impact the gifts of alumni make on college students,” Meglathery said. “Being given so much motivates me to give back to the school so that future students can enjoy the kinds of experiences at LVC that I have.”

Receiving this scholarship helped these scholars prepare for what’s ahead.

“I know that the experiences I’ve been through with the help of the scholarship have prepared me perfectly for anything I want to do in the future,” Gibbons said. “As I move forward to graduate school, I know I’m ready, and I owe a lot of that preparedness to the Allwein Scholarship.”

The scholars suggest future recipients should use the stipend in a way to better their collegiate experience and thus, impact their own lives.

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FEATURE

May 2, 2018 La Vie Collegienne

Changes after four years

Congratu

CLASS O

“In 10 Years

Ian Lloyd | Physical Therapy ...Paying off student debt.

Teanna Shutt | Physical Therapy ...Hopefully mostly done paying off school loans and will have experience as a traveling PT. Nikki Lloyd | Biochemistry ...Suffering by paying back my large school debt.

Photo provided by: Marketing & Communications ABOVE: The freshman class photo of the Class of 2018 during orientation.

HUNTRE KEIP ’20 STAFF WRITER College students, LVC and otherwise, aren't the only ones who experience change; so too do the campuses themselves.

Since 2014, when most graduating seniors started, Lebanon Valley College experienced numerous structural, academic and athletic changes.

The most noticeable ones are the buildings students see every day, especially new additions. Lebegern Learning Commons, which includes the Center for Writing and Tutoring Resources, was opened. This area has benefitted students and professors because it not only provides access for additional studying space but also holds events such as networking events and the International Food Festival.

Another big structural change to the campus is the new Arnold Health Professions Pavilion. This addition was made possible by the generous $10 million gift from Ed and Jeanne Arnold. Currently, the pavilion is near the end of construction.

"I believe changes are beneficial to the College," Amanda Gorman, a senior physical therapy major, said.

"Technology is advancing and with bigger projects such as the health pavilion, LVC will gain larger groups of freshmen classes."

Academically, LVC has created additional majors for students to explore.

These majors include athletic training, speech language pathology, analytical finance and creative writing.

Also, Constellation LVC, FYE curriculum and an MBA in business administration were fully implemented, which allow new experiences for incoming classes.

As seniors graduate, they hold onto exciting memories, particularly ones created by sporting events. Within the last four years, the women's ice hockey and esports teams were added to LVC's roster.

"I'm going to miss the camaraderie between students, alumni and family when Homecoming and rival sporting events come up on the schedule," Lindsay Lane, a senior physical therapy major, said. "No matter what, everyone is proud to be a Dutchman that day."

Graduation is also a time to reflect how teenagers became adults.

"It's so great to see everyone growing from freshmen on move-in day to the adults we are now," Lane said.

"Some people are accepting job opportunities, some are continuing into graduate school and others are considering the military."

Whatever one's path, chances are it changed along the way.

Jeff Cooper | Sociology ...Traveling the world.

Leslie Hiller | Sociology ...happy, healthy and cooking food from every food video that I have shared on my Facebook profile.

Kirsten Bannan | Digital Communications ...Hopefully less poor than I am right now.

Amr Hassanein | History & Religion ...in my beautiful country Egypt looking at the pyramids and smiling as I remember the wonderful days I spent at LVC. Dillon Dunn | Computer Science ...climbing a mountain.

Zeke Wertz | Physics ...eating pizza.

Marleigh Palmer | Early Childhood & Special Education ...living the dream with the love of my life, still drinking coffee, writing lesson plans and pretending that I like going to the gym.

Michael Ogunyeni | Digital Communications ...VP of Digital Plug Inc., married and the Director of Marketing for Treevo Inc. Danielle Burns | Physical Therapy ...A clinical physical therapist making a difference/influence on bettering my patients’ life and hopefully having my student loans paid off.

Holly Mitman | Chemistry with a Secondary Education Certification ...happy and improving the lives of many individuals for the better! :) Chloe McCarty | Computer & Data Science ...hopefully done paying off my student loans.

Dustin Shepler | Politics ...working on campaigns on a national level, hopefully helping good people get elected.

Matt Smarkanic | Physical Therapy ...a physical therapist working with athletes.

Rydge Dudley | Sociology ...a full-time law enforcement official.

Trevor Gordon | Physical Therapy ...just doing physical therapy.

Dakota Strohl | Physical Therapy ...owning a gym and physical therapy clinic.

Hayley Cobb | Sociology ...a licensed behavioral specialist with 5 dogs and living somewhere warm.

Becky Evans | Early Childhood/Special Education ...loving life.

Cam Avery | Physical Therapy ...a military physical therapist or working with wounded veterans returning from combat.

Karla Bingaman | Global Studies & Spanish ...living in my walk-in closet filled with designer clothes.

Audrey Riley | Art & Art History ...museum director in the Van Gogh Museum.

JoAnne Rubelmann | Secondary Education & Social Studies ...making an impact upon some of the future leaders of our world.

May 2, 2018

FEATURE

La Vie Collegienne

ulations,

O F 2018!

s I will be...”

Jeremiah Kreider | History & Politics ...finished paying off my loans!

Alexandria Lehman | ACS Science ...in a steady career doing something that I enjoy.

Jordan Hykes | Politics ...PA State Senator and future Governor.

Jaylan Colon | English ...in Miami working and I hope dancing to Spanish music, sailing and visiting sandbars.

Veronica Pettyjohn | English ...ten years closer to paying off my student debt.

Taylor Kleeschulte | Psychology ...a social worker.

Kaitlyn Kennedy | Accounting ...working as a forensic accountant for the FBI. Andrew Deardoff | Physical Therapy ...board certified in Pediatric Physical Therapy and working with children in an outpatient setting.

Luke Howard | Physical Therapy ...a chicken farmer, not a PT. Emily Routch | Early Childhood & Special Education ...still be in school.

Dylan Berberick | Criminal Justice ...in Margaritaville.

Ciara Marshall | Biochemistry & Molecular Biology ...providing medical care to all the drunkards in Margaritaville or taking in the local scenery.

Dillon Chabala | Actuarial Science & Economics ...napping.

Dakota Keefer | Economics ...realizing college wasn’t actually that stressful while paying my mortgage payment.

Erin Kingham | Physical Therapy & Psychology ...practicing physical therapy somewhere, and hopefully working with children.

Cassidy DeCosmo | Politics ...a successful lawyer and partner at a firm.

Caitlin Dryden | Politics ...happy (hopefully).

Colin Albright | Accounting & Economics ...sitting on my own private island drinking a strawberry daiquiri.

Theresa Messenger | Digital Communications & English ...living a beautiful life with a much better drink in my hand and on a much bigger private island than Colin.

Elliot Kleckner | Economics & Business Administration ...a successful manager or executive at a company.

Monica Wasik | Actuarial Science ...an actuary with my FSA. Megan Marron | English Communications ...happy and working in student engagement at a college in the south.

Nicole Files | Accounting, Business Administration & Spanish ...working hard and playing harder.

Julie Wiker | English & German ...proud of all of my accomplishments and happy with my life.

Jess Zeiner | Exercise Science ...somewhere on the beach sipping something fruity.

Nick Pollak | Chemistry & Physics ...in school forever.

Laura Brent | Digital Communications ...happy, successful and a dog mom.

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Seniors for the Valley Fund THERESA MESSENGER ’18 CO-EDITOR The Valley Blue Coats and senior Student Government members teamed up to put an exciting twist on student philanthropy through the Seniors for the Valley Fund committee to raise a grand total of $3,131.82.

Seniors for the Valley Fund (SFTVF) has spent the academic year planning student philanthropy events for the senior class including a fall kickoff, online donor drive and a spring cookout with games, events and prizes. Its main goal is to make students aware of the opportunities that the Valley Fund provides and the importance of giving back.

“Working with the SFTVF committee has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career,” Lindsay Lane, president of Seniors for the Valley Fund, said. “Having a great group of seniors that feel so strongly about student philanthropy made everything run so smoothly and I appreciate every minute, dollar and ounce of effort each of them have put into this committee.”

Each year, the senior gift drive committee sets a donor goal and individ-

ual fundraising goal for members of the senior class. This year, SFTVF challenged members of the senior class to accumulate an overall 100 donors and $20.18 for each member of the senior class. There were 147 donors who gave at least $20.18 while enrolled at LVC. Seventy-eight of those students gave during their senior year.

SFTVF planned a party on the Laughlin Lawn to help raise funds towards the Valley Fund. Because of rain, the group had to move the party indoors, but did not let that stop them from enjoying a picnic like atmosphere, lawn games, a cookout and music.

“The senior cookout was a blast," Jess Zeiner, senior class president, said. "The Valley Blue coats were great resources when it came to answering questions about philanthropy and the overall fun of the event got everyone excited and involved."

Seniors for the Valley Fund will continue to raise funds. Those who completed the goal of $20.18 for lifetime giving will be recognized at commencement exercises on Saturday, May 12 with a special giving pin worn on their left lapel.

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May 2, 2018

FEATURE

La Vie Collegienne

Internships lead to jobs for accounting majors Next step - D.C. Laura Brent ’18 CO-EDITOR As the spring semester comes to a close, four senior accounting majors have acquired employment post-graduation and are excited to be using the skills they learned from LVC in their entry-level positions.

Nicole Files, an accounting, business administration and Spanish major; Brandon McMinn, an accounting and business administration major; Christa Abert, an accounting major; and Colin Albright, an accounting and economics major are all pursuing accounting careers in central Pennsylvania.

After interning with the auditing company, KPMG, LLP, at the Harrisburg office, Files secured a full-time position as an audit associate. She signed with the firm in August 2017.

“As a business, accounting and Spanish major, the rigor of LVC’s courses and the variety of work I had to complete helped me learn valuable skills such as multitasking and time management,” Files said. “I’m confident that these transferable skills will

Photo by: LVC Faculty ABOVE: Christa Abert, Colin Albright and Nicole Files.

benefit me in my professional career.”

Files will be working with various engagement teams and completing audit tasks. She is set to start in September.

McMinn secured a full-time position as a staff accountant with Trout, Ebersole and Groff, LLP, a regional accounting firm in Lancaster. He will gain exposure to public accounting, taxes, performing audits and attestation tasks.

He acquired this position after his successful performance during his internship for the firm.

“I am looking forward to continuing to grow as a professional and am excited to see where my career takes me, as well as seeing my friends succeed in their lives,” McMinn said. “I would not be who I am today, without the experience that I have had at LVC.” Abert and Albright both completed a six-week summer internship with Simon Lever, LLP, in Lititz. At the end of the six weeks, Abert and Albright both were offered full-time positions as staff accountants.

“I am looking forward to getting out into the real world and maximizing the success of those we partner with - which is something Simon Lever strives to achieve,” Albright said.

This position will consist of preparation of clients’ tax returns and monthly bookkeeping tasks. The two are expected to begin their positions in late summer.

“I love everything about tax and I am hoping to get my master’s in tax,” Abert said.

Because of the skills the accounting department has provided, the future appears bright for all four of these accounting majors.

Stringing his way to Ireland

SHILESKY MONTALVO ’19 STAFF WRITER One LVC senior takes his political ambitions to the nation’s capital.

Lebanon Valley College provides students with resources to help keep them on the right track. Dustin Shepler, a senior politics major, will graduate on time despite changing his major in his second semester of sophomore year. Shepler credits internships with shaping what he wants to do with his career.

“I’ve done internships in the local elections office to see the background on the making of elections,” Shepler said. “I also volunteered on the Pat Toomey campaign canvasing why they should vote for Pat Toomey.”

Shepler advises current undergraduates to value one’s education.

“Internships are key in order to get into grad school or to get a job after graduation,” Shepler said. “They want to see more than just what the book tells you. But also, don’t be afraid to

Kurt Harnish ’20 STAFF WRITER

look at other disciplines to ensure you

Most seniors at LVC are advancing onto careers, graduate school or looking for jobs; Andrew Martz has a unique experience waiting for him once he graduates.

Andrew Martz, a senior physics major, is headed to Ireland to study at the Lagan Lutherie School, which is world-renowned. The school teaches students how to build high-end acoustic guitars based off older traditional techniques. Martz feels that this school has a lot to offer.

“I will spend six months receiving one-on-one instruction from some of the best guitar makers in Europe,” Martz said. “I’m excited to be able to work with and learn directly from some of the absolute best luthiers in Europe and dare I say, the world.”

Martz discovered the school through a parent of a former LVC international student; a family friend of the student owns a guitar shop in Ireland which sells guitars made from the school. Martz was able to talk to the head of the school while in Ireland, and after the conversation, Martz knew he wanted to go.

“I had the good fortune of being able to meet the man who runs the school while I was in Northern Ire-

want to be in.”

have chosen the right discipline you Shepler is the president of Alpha Phi Omega, the national service fraternity, a member of the College Conservatives, a resident assistant and an athlete in cross country and track & field.

“They want to see that you are involved,” Shepler said. “You want to get Photo provided by: Andrew Martz ABOVE: Andrew Martz enjoyed his time in Ireland where he went on spring break and will be studying how to be a Luthier for six months.

land over spring break, traveling with the Allwein Scholars,” Martz said. “After that, it was a no-brainer that I was going to attend there.”

Making acoustic guitars by hand has nothing to do with a physics degree, but Martz is following his passion.

“This is something that I am doing for me, completely unrelated to my degree in physics,” Martz said. “I mostly just want people to know that just because you get a degree in something doesn’t mean that is all you are allowed to focus on post-graduation.”

Martz is ready to start a new chapter of his life, knowing he will miss LVC. He will also have to adjust to being in a foreign country.

“I have gotten so used to seeing my friends and hanging out with people my age every day, but I will be a few thousand miles away from everyone for six months,” Martz said. “I am obviously nervous about living in a foreign country for so long by myself, but the excitement I have for traveling outweighs that by far.”

The excitement is music to Martz’s ears.

involved in organizations that show your personality, and what makes you different than any other applicants applying to the same grad school.”

Shepler was accepted to George Mason University and George Washington University; he will attend George Washington University in the fall. In addition, Shepler received two job offers in D.C. and accepted one related to what he wants to do for the rest of his life -- manage political campaigns.

“Another piece of advice I have is for students to think outside the box,” Shepler said. “Be creative in what you do, and stand out. It is okay to fail.”

May 2, 2018

FEATURE

La Vie Collegienne

Budding business TRAVIS HALL ’19 GUEST WRITER Mere days away from receiving his digital communications degree, Alexander ‘Buddy’ Buckingham already has the experience and skills of a seasoned veteran in the fields of graphic and web design.

After teaching himself how to use Adobe Creative Suite as a sophomore in high school, Buckingham fell in love with the art of graphic design and searched for an undergraduate program that could turn that passion into a career. He found that at LVC. Almost four years later, Buckingham has surprised even himself.

“I’ve always been the type of person to set high expectations for myself, and that continued when I came into college,” Buckingham said. “But the lessons I’ve learned and the work I’ve accomplished over the past four years have put me in a position I never thought I’d be in.”

In his senior year alone, Buddy has thrived in a one-of-a-kind internship while launching his own design company, Buckingham Creative LLC. This year, Buckingham was hired

Photo provided by: Athletic Communications ABOVE: Alexander ‘Buddy’ Buckingham

as USA Hockey’s first ever remote intern—a position that entails creating social media content for the National Team Development Program (NTDP) stationed in Plymouth, Michigan.

Buckingham’s daily responsibilities require using Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign to piece together game day and final score graphics in addition to developing campaign ads

for both the under-17 and under-18 teams.

“The program had never had a remote intern before, but I was devoted to proving them wrong,” Buckingham said. “And it was my experience here at LVC that helped me do just that, especially my time in classes like Digital Graphic Design.”

While there are so many directions he could go with his degree, this potential path has Buckingham excited because of his passion for hockey, including a job working full-time for NTDP. Buckingham served as the equipment manager for the men’s ice hockey team.

The 21-year-old established Buckingham Creative LLC after he realized he had connections with people who needed graphic and web design work done. He knew he needed to protect his name and designs.

“I am very excited to embark on the next chapter of my life and hope that I am able to take what I have learned and create a successful business,” Buckingham said.

Buckingham and LVC – a perfect fit. He says no matter where he ends up, he’ll strive to make his alma mater proud.

Tackling career and masters JOLIE WINEMILLER ’18 STAFF WRITER As graduation approaches, LVC seniors are making decisions impacting their futures. Theresa Messenger, Student Government president, has her plans figured out.

Messenger will graduate with degrees in digital communications and English. After graduation she will begin to work full-time in Lititz at Listrak as a creative project manager. At the beginning of July, she will begin her master's degree in communications online at Syracuse University.

“During my senior capstone, I gained a lot of knowledge about the role of a project manager and will be able to use my experiences in undergrad during my everyday responsibilities at work,” Messenger said.

“LVC has prepared me in all academic disciplines and the digital communications major has provided me with knowledge surrounding all types of digital media which will transfer well to my graduate phase.”

Messenger has been involved with a number of campus organizations. Her

senior year was filled with roles as the Student Government president, a Valley Ambassador, Peer Mentor, Athletic Communications student assistant, the intern for the Center for Global Education, study abroad ambassador, a co-editor of La Vie Collegienne and an active member of Seniors for the Valley Fund.

“My advice to undergraduate students would be if you have an opportunity at your fingertips, take it,” Messenger said.

Messenger is also a member of Sigma Alpha Pi, National Society of Leadership and Success as well as Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society. Throughout her time at LVC, she has had the opportunity to be a member of the Dance Team, a majorette in the Pride of the Valley marching band and member of the Global Education Club.

“My experiences in and out of the classroom at LVC have influenced me greatly and I hope working in higher education will allow me to impact future undergraduate students as well,” Messenger said. “In ten years, I hope to be a successful businesswoman, super

Photo by: Cassandra Barrett ABOVE: Theresa Messenger

cool mom and a professor of communications or a related field at a small college or university.”

Messenger firmly believes the best aspect of LVC is the people.

“I'm so grateful to everyone I have encountered at LVC,” Messenger said.

“Not only has the college prepared me to move forward in my academics and career, but also I’ve met the most amazing people and made the best memories in such a short time.”

7

3 down, 2 to go KURT HARNISH ’20 STAFF WRITER The 2018 graduating class is filled with many accomplished students; several will continue their education with graduate school. Ryan Natale is one of these students.

Ryan Natale is a senior athletic training major and a member of the first athletic training class ever to graduate from LVC. “I think it is just cool to say that you are the first ones to do something,” Natale said. “It is also exciting to know that no one else has ever done this and that all of the other classes will look up to us for advice and help.”

The athletic training program is rigorous; it consists of a 3+2 system which means that after three years, the students graduate with an exercise science degree and then continue on for a master’s degree in athletic training. The program offers shadowing opportunities, and upon graduation, students must take board exams to become certified athletic trainers.

“There are only 8 of us students in the program,” Natale said. “We all remain close and will help each other prep for the board exams we have to take when we graduate.”

Most of the athletic training majors are looking forward to the next two years of school.

“I am excited to be going on for the next two years because I will finally be learning all of the more in depth and hands on parts of being an AT,” Natale said. “There is a level of comfortability knowing that I get to stay at the same school, but I am also a little nervous because it becomes harder and I have to move into my own apartment.”

Graduate school is a huge decision for some people and very academically challenging. Graduate school at LVC is no different and Natale is ready to start the next part of his career journey.

“The most exciting parts of grad school will be no more general education classes, finally graduating and the five internships we have,” Natale said.

Natale is looking to finish this year strong and carry the momentum into graduate school.

May 2, 2018

SPORTS

La Vie Collegienne

8

Distinguished Dutchman COLIN ALBRIGHT ’18 STAFF WRITER When it comes to the job search, some Lebanon Valley College seniors are a step ahead and already have a job lined up for after graduation.

Nikki Lloyd, a senior biochemistry and molecular biology major, is one of these seniors. Lloyd has accepted a position at Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories in the biochemistry department.

Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories is a global leader in biopharmaceutical laboratory services and assists in the drug development process.

“My brother introduced me to this job opening at Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories,” Lloyd said. “I will actually be working in the adjoining department to him.”

In addition to excelling in the classroom, Lloyd was pivotal in the push to bring women’s ice hockey to LVC. When the athletics department was first considering the sport, they contacted Lloyd to assist in the

Photo by: Jake Williams ABOVE: Lloyd and the rest of the women’s ice hockey team at the Dutchmen Outdoor Classic at Hersheypark Stadium this past season.

coaching search and the recruiting process. Lloyd was also named the first captain of the LVC women’s ice hockey team, a position she held for the past two seasons.

“I’m so glad I was part of bringing women’s ice hockey to LVC because it’s a way to leave my mark on a school

that has led me to great successes,” Lloyd said. “I am so happy to have been part of the journey, and I can only hope that the team will bring great success to LVC.” Since Lloyd was the oldest member of the women’s ice hockey team, she will also be the first alumna of the

program. The senior enjoyed the friendships she made along the way and the bonds she formed with the women she shared the ice with.

“Being the first alumna, I was able to lead my team through the experiences that I had already endured with and without ice hockey at LVC,” Lloyd said. “The most important part of the journey for me was watching my teammates become stronger individuals through the ups and downs we went through as a team.”

Although Lloyd only played two years of ice hockey at LVC, she is honored to have been a pioneer in bringing the sport to The Valley.

“Obviously, I wish I could have played ice hockey during my freshman and sophomore year, but being able to build a program and lead through the first two years was an honor,” Lloyd said.

Lloyd is hopeful that the leadership skills and work ethic she developed during her time on campus will help in her career following graduation.

Senior student-athlete standouts CASSANDRA BARRETT ’19 STAFF WRITER Some of the most talented and accomplished student-athletes to have ever attended LVC will cross the stage at graduation.

While there are many successful and noteworthy student-athletes in the class of 2018, some seniors have broken program records, won awards and reached impressive milestones throughout their collegiate careers at The Valley.

Tom Klemick, director of athletic communications, says that the class of 2018 is one of the best combinations of athletics and academics in recent LVC history, and some senior standouts from this class will still be remembered and recognized for years to come.

“There will be a couple of kids from this class that will end up in the hall of fame,” Klemick said. “It’s a special class.”

Men’s Soccer Nate Gibbons, a physics and mathematics major and Allwein Scholar, is a two-time CoSIDA Academic All-American, an honor awarded to student-athletes who show both outstanding athletic and academic achievement. Not only has

Gibbons received this honor two years in a row, but he is also the recipient of an NCAA postgraduate scholarship.

These postgraduate scholarships are only awarded to roughly 50 studentathletes in the NCAA each year, spanning all three athletic divisions.

Cam Avery, a physical therapy major, is the team’s starting goalkeeper. He will graduate with the most all-time wins in program history with 44.

Field Hockey Maddie Fox, a physical therapy major, is one of only 19 women in program history to play in the NFHCA North/South Division III All-Star Game.

Cross Country and Track Nick Scullin, a biology major, was named a MAC Men’s Cross Country Senior Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the MAC’s highest individual honor.

This prestigious award is given to one senior in each conference sport and recognizes outstanding student-athlete achievement both athletically and academically. Scullin also qualified for and competed in the 2018 NCAA Indoor Track & Field Championships in the 800-meter dash.

Swimming Ian Lloyd, a physical therapy major, is considered to be one of the most

decorated swimmers in the program’s history. He is a two-time MAC champion, winning gold in both the 200 fly in 2017 and in the 200 IM in his senior season. He was also named the MAC Men’s Swimming Senior ScholarAthlete of the Year, the conference’s highest individual honor. In addition to these honors and accolades, Lloyd also holds program records in 15 events including the 50y free, 100y fly, 200y fly, 200y IM, 200y free relay, 200m fly, 100m fly, 200m breast, 400m IM and more.

Women’s Basketball Becky Evans, an early childhood and special education major, became the 14th player in program history to score 1,000 career points.

Men’s Basketball Sam Light, a business administration major, is the second all-time leading scorer in program history. In his senior campaign, Light joined the 2,000 point club and ended his career with 2,097 points.

Andy Orr, a business administration major, is the only player in program history to score 1,900 points (1,946 points) and collect 900 rebounds for his career (910 rebounds). He was also a top ten finalist for the Jostens Trophy, a national honor that recognizes outstanding achievement in athletics

and academics with a dedication to community service. Orr is the third athlete in school history to become a finalist for this prestigious honor.

In addition to these achievements, Orr was also named the MAC Men’s Basketball Senior Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the MAC’s highest individual honor.

Baseball Colin Albright, an accounting and economics major, is graduating as a member of the 100 hit club after reaching this milestone in his junior season.

Marshal

Kiessling,

a

business

administration major, joined Albright after picking up his 100th-career hit in his senior campaign.

Softball Cheyanne Brown, a global studies and sociology major, recorded her 100th-career hit, joining the elite club during her junior season.

Women’s Lacrosse Emma Jones, a biology major, ranks third all-time in career goals.