Alumni Testimonials
Michelle Siejak
Hometown: Mount Joy, PA
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program ? Why EMU specifically?
I chose the LOM program because the curriculum was exactly what I was looking for! I didn't want a business degree- my needs centered more in understanding how people are motivated at work, how individuals and teams work together, and how I could increase my leadership skills. After making the decision to apply, my positive experience with my enrollment advisor confirmed my decision.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
One of my favorite parts of the program was the application of class material to real world experiences. Case studies and group discussion allowed me to apply concepts learned in class to my professional life.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
Organizing my time required some adjustment. The program required my best efforts in writing, research, and prepartion for class each week. But shortly after beginning the program, I was able to prioritize my time and manage my workflow. I experienced some personal challenges with family health concerns, but my instructors and other students in my cohort were undertstanding and supportive.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
I am inspired by the other students in my cohort. They are a group of diverse individuals from many dfferent backgrounds who came together with a comon purpose and provided support to each other.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
I would tell a prospective student that committing to returning to college can be scary or overwhelming. But the benefit is great, and staying organized and taking good care of yourself will help.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
I would encourage a prospective student to believe in themselves, to be open to stretching their understanding of the world around them, and to be generous in their efforts and interactions with others in the program. All of these encouragements will help in realizing the most benefit from this college degree earned with a group of diverse students who all have the same goal of completing this next step in their education.
Bernard Sejour
Hometown: Cheltenham, PA
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program? Why EMU specifically?
I chose the LOM program because I needed the Leadership and Organization Management degree to achieve my goals. I was also able to transfer my credits earned through my associate's degree.
What challenges have/did you navigated during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
My challenge was reading and typing fast. I also required more time to process course content. The speed I needed to keep up with my colleagues was challenging; however, they were so gracious to me. The faculty members also encouraged me and did not leave me behind, and for that, I am grateful.
Colin McNeal
Hometown: Littlestown, PA
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program? Why EMU specifically?
I chose the LOM program because it was a 16 month program and EMU at Lancaster was close to my base in Middletown,PA.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
The course experiences I encountered throughout my time at EMU and the family-like environment.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
Working a full-time job and heading straight to class after was challenging to juggle at first. Over time it became easier because I got into a groove.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
As every class went by, I felt more comfortable speaking out and presenting my questions and concerns to upper management.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
The only thing I would tell a new student would be to take a deep breath and take one thing at a time.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
With this degree, I can further my career path by being one step closer to becoming a pilot for the Air Force.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
The staff members at EMU in Lancaster have been the most cooperative group of individuals. I am glad to have been able to associate with them.
Peter Hughes
Hometown: Ephrata, PA
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
I chose to pursue the LOM program because the knowledge gained from the program seemed like it would help me move into a supervisory role in my current industry. I chose EMU specifically because the environment seemed very welcoming, and the schedule allowed me to continue to work full-time.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
One of the many great parts of the LOM experience at EMU was the amount of support available from my fellow cohort members and the faculty. This was important to me because it allowed me to feel welcome and comfortable sharing my opinions and growing as a person/leader.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
A challenge that I experienced while at EMU was going through a career change, and I was unsure how it would affect my schedule. Each faculty I had brought this up with at EMU offered great support and assured me that we would navigate it together. It’s fantastic getting that kind of support when you are unsure what the future holds for you.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
The knowledge gained from this program, if applied, will open many doors for you professionally and give you access to many leadership opportunities.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
I anticipate myself moving into a supervisory position at my current company after spending a few years in the field to learn more and use the skills that I have developed in the LOM program at EMU to be an effective and caring leader.
How has your time in the LOM at EMU made your life better?
My time in the LOM program at EMU allowed me to stand out professionally and get what I would call my dream job. It also allowed me to grow as a person and gave me new tools in my belt to navigate through many obstacles that I might encounter.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
The faculty does a fantastic job structuring the program so that an adult learner can complete it with a full-time job. It may seem like a lot to digest, but each class builds on the last, and the faculty is very supportive.
Kyle "Primo" Amor
Hometown: Lancaster, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
The accelerated program appealed to my current lifestyle and schedule, besides the school's mission and values resonated with me.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
The professors make it a point to make sure you truly understand the subject matter, rather than being able just to recite it back.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
As a working professional, modifying my professional and personal life to a lot of time to my studies has been challenging but well worth it.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
Making my family proud of my accomplishments.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
There's never going to be the perfect time to invest in yourself. This program is designed to help you succeed; it's challenging, but not impossible.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
Aside from my growth as an individual, having my degree will allow me to pursue career opportunities not only from a basic qualifications standpoint but with confidence as I'm more equipped with everything I've learned while being here.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
The hardest part of being a student is becoming a student. Once you get out of your way, you'll be able to focus on what you need to do to accomplish your goal.
Tedd Williams
Hometown: Lancaster, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
I was contractually obligated to obtain my Bachelor's Degree within five (5) years from my hire date. EMU presented at one of our Professional Development days, and I was attracted to the program, duration, and adult-focused structure.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
Our Cohort was my favorite part. We started and finished this journey together... We supported one another throughout and not only recognized our differences but embraced our differences as well.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
Personally went through a divorce... I refocused on my education with the understanding that it would get both my son and me to a better place.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
The Professors, their approach, knowledge, and passion for each module taught.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
Be prepared to work hard and remain engaged. It will be tough at times, but continue to push through. Also, never be afraid to ask for help.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
The degree is nice, but it's truly a piece of paper. What has enhanced my career is the knowledge gained from the program and its applicability to the real world.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
Just keep moving forward! Remain open-minded and stay focused on your goal(s).
Nate Thorne
Hometown: Ephrata, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
I was familiar with EMU from having completed their STEP program. I also had already taken several courses towards a bachelor's degree. When I learned about EMU's LOM program, I found it to be a perfect fit for my work schedule, the LOM major was accepting of my already obtained credits from STEP and other courses I've taken. I also got married a little over a year ago and just welcomed my daughter into the world. They are the most significant reason why I'm pursuing a LOM degree at EMU because I desire to be better equip myself for me to be in a position to do more for my family. I also want to set an example for my daughter to always keep learning and growing in life.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
The cohort learning environment is certainly my favorite part. Learning in a classroom full of almost 100 students is far different from learning in a classroom with a small handful of classmates. The expectation shifts in creating opportunities to learn from each other and build authentic relationships. This is a gift to the learning environment, being able to teach each other as students while still learning from the instructor.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
The biggest challenge is balancing school with work commitments. What I've done to overcome this challenge is specifically plan blocks of time that will be dedicated to completing school work. This allowed me sufficient time to soak in the material and to give my best effort before class on Tuesday night.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
What inspires me during class is being able to see how real-life experiences merge with academic content. It shows me that what we're learning can be applied to life situations and is not irrelevant. Traditionally students have struggled with implementing what they learn into their life situations, so experiencing that has indeed been a gift to increase my learning. Another aspect that has inspired me is my family. Knowing my wife and daughter are rooting me on inspires me to stay faithful to finishing the LOM program so I can graduate with a B.S.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
1. Plan ahead of time to complete your work. Do not wait until the last minute. Give yourself time to soak in the material even if the content is relatively easy. 2. Learn from your classmates; don't assume to be the expert.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
I hope to start a nonprofit leadership development program for at-risk youth and young adults. I hope to take some tools from this course to equip upcoming generations to be leaders in society versus subjecting themselves to societal conformity.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
Go in willing to learn and also open to what you may have to offer. Plan ahead time to do your homework.
Beth Valentin
Hometown: Lancaster, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
Length of program, employer reimbursement, articulation with Thaddeus Stevens.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
I enjoyed the variety of instructors and getting to know them. Having clear expectations was always fabulous (not all instructors set clear expectations). I enjoyed getting to know other adult learners, learning about their perspectives, and interacting positively and professionally. Being able to get to know so many people with diverse perspectives helped me be more accepting of others and make clear expectations about boundaries (politics, divisive topics, etc.)
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
It was just a difficult pace, lots of work, and both invigorating and exhausting. The perils of being an adult learner, working full time, with a family. Other students were encouraging but also my support system at home (my husband helped, and my kiddos tried their best to give me the space to work), having amazing co-worker-friends to talk with and get encouragement from.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
To stretch me in leadership and not be afraid to step up. I've been trained, I'm a great leader, I will learn from mistakes, and I will continue to do my best to advance.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
It was a supportive learning structure - but I am also a motivated learner and didn't require many interventions for various circumstances. It is hard work but gratifying work. Very empathetic but supportive and encouraging environment. Staff are very passionate about their positions and helping, which makes the environment a fabulous place to learn.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
Help me step up and into different responsibilities and roles.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?|
You can do it.
Adam Stinson
Hometown: Willow Street, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM Program at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
I chose this program because it accepted all my Thaddeus Stevens Automotive Technology credits, as well as the accelerated format and location.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
My favorite part of the EMU experience was the development of the Cohort. As we grew to understand each other better, dialogue and conversation became more in-depth, and everyone encouraged more thought-provoking ideas. It indeed became a community committed to better everyone rather than just ourselves.
What challenges have/did you navigate during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
The workload during some 300- and 400-level courses became difficult to complete while working a full-time and part-time job, but prioritizing my time and consulting other students for advice on projects helped me accomplish them all on time.
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
I was inspired to become a strong leader. Many instructors and students are already exemplary leaders who act ethically and are highly trusted by those who follow them. The content of the classes, I felt, really helped me gain skills to become that kind of leader.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
Start early on the Application of Research Paper; manage your time well and make it a point to get it done early for a proper review. Also, do not get stuck in cruise control halfway through. The second half drastically increased in workload and expectations (as it should), but keep an even momentum the entire way through.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
It has helped as I transition into ownership of our family business. I was already in a leadership position but did not know how to function in the role properly. Now, I can use the skills to create the organization it was made to be.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
Do not hesitate to apply; it will be worth the time.
Abigail Buckwalter
Hometown: Lancaster, Pa
Why did you choose to pursue the LOM at EMU? Why EMU specifically?
I wanted to finish my business degree but would have had to start all over even though I had plenty of credits. I was discouraged and disappointed in myself for not finishing the first time around. I discovered the LOM program and it just seemed perfect for me. I valued my time in class before and wanted the class room experience again without having to cut my hours at work. This program made that possible. What really sold me was that I truly felt that everyone at EMU was there to help me succeed, even just going through the admissions process. I haven't felt that on a college campus before.
What was/is your favorite part of the LOM experience at EMU? Please describe why this is/was important to you.
Every ounce of this program has been valuable to me thus far. I think what makes this program unique is the cohort experience. Doing this with people that start off as strangers that soon become people you admire and network with is an amazing transition to witness. Not only that, but the knowledge you gain from opening yourself up to what other perspectives can teach you. Throughout my experience thus far, I can honestly say I have been able to directly apply what I am learning to not only my working career, but my personal life and relationships as well.
What challenges have/did you navigated during your time as a student at EMU? (Personal and/or Professional) What helped you successfully navigate/overcome those challenges?
A lot of my challenges are personal in the sense that I was anxious in a lot of areas of my life coming into this program. I was mostly worried about the balancing act of life. I work full time, volunteer my time to serve others, and was adding an accelerated bachelor's program into the mix. I really felt supported by the staff at EMU through the admissions process and financial aid process. After beginning the program, I quickly realized that this program was designed with people like me in mind and that completing my degree is possible!
What has inspired you during your time at EMU?
I really am inspired by the support and community at EMU. I want to bring that everywhere I go. Watching strangers network and connect and become friends and a team over the course of 6 months is pretty cool. I have enjoyed being a part of this cohort and this program and the things I am learning here in and out of the class room will stick with me.
What would you tell a prospective student considering the LOM program? Or ~ What is one thing prospective students should know about the LOM program?
I would recommend this program to anyone. What you will learn here you will be able to apply the very next day in real life, even if you are not in a leadership position.
How do you anticipate having the LOM degree will enhance your career/future plans/goals?
It already has. The skills learned in this program is in line with the way many businesses are moving. My employer in particular is very interested in what I am learning and we talk frequently about the ways I can grow within the company utilizing my LOM degree.
How has your time in the LOM at EMU made your life better?
This has been a transformative learning experience for me that is still underway. There has been nothing but positive growth during my time in the LOM program both personal and professional. I have to attribute a lot of my achievements over the past 6 months to what I have been learning and putting into practice throughout this program.
Is there anything else you would say to a prospective student about your experience at EMU?
I have been to your typical 4 year liberal arts university, technical training schools, and now EMU. This is by far, the most unique learning experience I have had so far. The value of this experience is innumerable. I highly recommend this program to anyone in the work force seeking to further their education and career.
