by
Calvin Hopple | May 17, 2022

What brought you to Ancilla:
My
family brought me to Marian University’s Ancilla College as my next step toward
a future career after high school. I only had to choose between two schools,
and between the degrees offered and located close to home, Marian’s Ancilla
College was the clear choice for a degree in natural and health sciences. It
also connects well with another choice of mine; Marian Ancilla’s exercise
science program.
Sports
generally were another reason I chose the Marian Ancilla campus as the coaches
offered me an opportunity to join the swimming and cross-country programs.
Tell us about your time here:
Marian
University Ancilla started as a general education experience to move through my
schooling. I was impressed with the degrees and the opportunity for greater
educational attainment. My grade point average has been holding steady but
takes more work than high school did since I am more challenged and still
learning to adjust.
Getting
involved with the cross-country team gave me more of an opportunity to connect
with friends and enjoy the fun and fellowship. I was team captain for
cross-country and won the NJCAA All American award for both swimming and cross
country. The college learning opportunity is more important than high school as
you build friendships and you discover more about who you are and what things
interest you.
Tell us about your future now that you are graduating:
In
my final semester, I took an additional EMT training class to secure my
license. With an already 21-credit hour load, this kept me extremely busy as I
wrapped up for graduation.
After
graduation, I plan to take the final two tests for my EMT license as my goal is
to apply and work at Starke County Fire department saving lives. However, no
matter where I land, the skills I’ve learned will prepare me for a life-long
career. In addition to that, Marian Ancilla athletics wants me to tentatively
join as an assistant coach for the cross-country team which will allow me to
use my skills to give back to a team I enjoyed as an undergraduate.
Is there anything special on campus you want to share?
I
do have a small secret to share, MoonTree Studios on campus has cutting-edge
artistic supplies, staff, and classes open to all students. Not only did they
provide artistic growth, but they were also concerned about my stewardship and
mental health. I’m grateful for my experiences and knowledge that staff and
faculty care about my entire well-being.