Our latest addition to our series of Alumni Council Q&As features Council Secretary Blair Howarth ('13).
Q: What was your major at Waynesburg?
I majored in Secondary Social Studies Education & Political Science with a minor in Music.
Q: Where has life taken you since graduating from Waynesburg University?
After graduation I was hired by Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services, Inc. and worked in the New Directions program as a Teacher in the Secondary Unit. Then I had an opportunity to work as a Legislative Aide with the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Q: What is your current job/title, and what is your current location?
Currently I live in Uniontown, PA. I am an Admissions Counselor at Waynesburg University.
Q: Can you describe your time as a student at Waynesburg and how it shaped you as a person?
While a student at Waynesburg University I was able to learn much more than what I was studying in my textbooks. I was able to have experiences that have fostered my professional growth and have allowed me the opportunity give back.
Q: What is your favorite memory as a Waynesburg student?
Honestly, there are too many memories to pick from that I could rank as a favorite memory. Whether that would be hanging out in the dorms, the late nights of studying or simply being on campus. What I would say is that the people I met at Waynesburg while as a student that helped make all those memories would be my favorite. I have been fortunate to gain lifelong friends, and I am forever grateful for that.
Q: Who was your favorite professor at Waynesburg, and why?
Dr. DePriest. She encouraged me to continue my playing career by joining the Symphonic Band. I have a passion for music and Dr. DePriest enabled that passion to grow, ultimately leading me to completing my Minor in Music while also being a double major.
Q: Why is staying connected with your alma mater important to you?
Waynesburg University gave me opportunities that I simply would not have had at other institutions, and for that I am grateful. Being a part of the Waynesburg family is just that… it is a family. A family that helps to allow others to have those same great opportunities and create favorite memories is amazing.
Q: What does your role as an Alumni Council member and officer entail, and what motivates you to give back to the University in this way?
As Alumni Council members we are able to assist the University with creating connections among alumni and also growing the impact alumni can have on current students. Personally, allowing other people to experience the wonderful opportunities that WU can provide is why I want to help the University.
Q: What advice do you have for current students? For recent graduates?
If I could give any advice, I would say simply, take that leap and get out of that comfort zone. Do that no matter what that leap might be. It is better to look back knowing that you attempted and potentially failed rather than wondering what could have been. Plus, the growth that you will gain from that experience could allow you to succeed in that next leap you will take.
