Brittany Shaw

Getting involved in student activities is a must when going away to school. That is something that I have learned here at West Chester University, particularly after spending my first semester locked up in my room any time I wasn’t in class. That first semester spent transitioning to life away from home is not necessarily easy, but getting involved on campus is a guaranteed way to help speed that transition along by making friends that have similar interests to you. West Chester University has over 270 student organizations on campus, so there is literally something for everyone here.

My second semester I decided to step out of my comfort zone and rush Phi Sigma Pi, the National Honor Fraternity on campus (and when I say decided I really mean I was dragged out by a girl I had a class with). Suffice it to say it was one of the BEST “decisions” of my life and the next 7 weeks were spent getting to know the 60 brothers, planning events with my 19-person initiate class, and attending fun events put on by the brotherhood. As brothers we joke around saying, “The initiation semester is the best and busiest time of your life that you will never want to do again!” Isn’t it the truth though! That semester I made so many new and genuine friends and got more involved then I could have ever possibly imagined.

Phi Sigma Pi has opened so many doors for me ever since I became a brother almost 2 years ago. Not only have I taken on leadership positions in the organization, but I have gotten involved in other areas on campus. I joined EARTH Club, and became the secretary this year and I started attending Psychology Club meetings to learn more about different fields of my major. I also became a University Ambassador, giving tours and sharing my excitement about WCU with prospective students which led to my internship in the office of admissions where I am able to gain some great work experience outside of the classroom.

Overall my corny and cheesy message is that getting involved in one aspect of campus life can really put into action a domino effect of events in life. When I first arrived I heard everyone telling me that I would get as much out of my years here at West Chester as I put into it, and it’s the truth! I am so grateful to have been given these great opportunities to get involved, network, and meet so many new people and I know that I am truly making the most of my college experience here.

Felix Otti

Hello, My name is Felix Otti and I am a freshman at West Chester University pursuing a degree in Public Health and hoping, one day, to go to medical school. At West Chester, I am involved in the Board of Governors Scholarship Program, University Ambassadors, Multicultural Affairs Mentoring Program, Black Student Union, Intramural Basketball, Public Health Club and the Pre-Medial Club. Getting involved on campus was one of the best decisions I could have made. Through my involvement, I have met new people, made close friends, and have been provided with many community service and leadership opportunities.

My first semester of my freshman year at West Chester University has gone by so fast. As I look back and reflect upon my college experience, I can honestly say that I have had the best time possible. I have excellent professors in all my classes which provide individual help when needed. There is the brand new recreation center where my friends and I can get a good workout and then get some amazing food after at places like The Diner. The social life at the West Chester is outstanding, whether you stay on campus or go off campus into town, there are no dull weekends. West Chester University provides the opportunities of a large university with the comfort of a small college. Choosing West Chester was definitely the right decision.