Two Great Blog Posts!

[Chris Boehm]

I usually take time out to review or scan blog posts by our students. Two in the last few weeks really caught my eye and reminded me why I've enjoyed working in higher education for over a dozen years. Dan Martin and Eric Blumberg posted about two very different topics but both speak to the importance and beauty of a college education and the experience you receive. Please humor me and continue to read to find out why.

In "It's a little wild and a little strange..." Dan Martin lets everyone know that after graduation he has decided to take on an internship at a Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release in Texas. Why does this speak to me so much? Well I understand that in a bad economy, with jobs few and far between, college graduates understand how to adapt and can strategically take on experiences that will improve their position when the economy does repair itself. Not everyone has the luxury of doing an internship because they may have a family to support. But the numbers don't lie, unemployment for college graduates is half that of non-college grads. And graduates understand how to survive and improve their position (like Dan). Dan will be in a better position when the economy improves and it sounds like he is getting amazing experiences that will help him in the workforce or in veterinary school. How do I know? Twelve years ago I set up a volunteer internship in the Albright College admission office. Now, I'm the director of that office. Good move on my part. Good luck Dan!

Eric Blumberg's post "Albright College... take #2" is a truly amazing post. I highly recommend reading it. Eric talks about not taking advantage of what Albright has to offer or his education. In his own words: "Fact is, I denied myself the opportunities and challenges that Albright had given me, and indulged only in the side of campus that really is a one-way ticket to a less-than-awesome GPA". President McMillan's convocation speech spoke to Eric. Specifically when Dr. McMillan said, "Your key to success here at Albright is to accept and involve yourself in the challenges we will present to you". This semester Eric has a renewed interest in his classes, found his lost passion for music performance, and put his past restaurant experiences to work with an on campus job. Eric's had an awakening, he's matured, and he's happy. Whether it is Harvard, Albright, Penn State, or anywhere else, your college experience is what YOU make of it. An open mind, positive attitude, and a willingness to come out of your comfort zone (along with hard work!) will give you an Ivy League education no matter what college you attend.

The beauty of Eric's post is that Eric is not an ambassador. He found the Faces website on his own and decided to share his experiences with no encouragement from the admission office or the College. His authentic words are so very powerful. He could have left Albright unhappily or graduated a disgruntled alum, instead he will hopefully leave having taken advantage of the opportunities presented to him and learned a lot about himself, his motivation, and life. College is so much more than text books and lectures. It's about a coming of age and learning about self awareness. Thanks for a great lesson in that Eric!