Volunteer spotlight: Alumni encourage admitted students to attend Binghamton University
By Steve Seepersaud
If you think back to your senior year of high school, you no doubt remember how it was that you decided to attend Binghamton University. The decision is easier for some than others. Perhaps, a personal connection with a Binghamton grad helped you make your choice.
In late March and early April, a number of Binghamton University alumni met with admitted students and shared their experiences at admissions receptions held in upstate New York, the metro New York region, Boston and Philadelphia. The goal of the receptions was to encourage these bright and talented high school students to matriculate at Binghamton.
James Fowler '96, MA '06, who volunteered at a reception in Massachusetts with his wife Dr. Heather Mackey Fowler '99, said he feels a great deal of pride when he sees the talent level of the students admitted to Binghamton University. As assistant vice president of enrollment for Dean College, Fowler says he understands well the role that alumni can play in recruiting students.
"What I always share with students considering Binghamton is how, at Binghamton, you are only limited by your own drive and enthusiasm," Fowler says. "What I loved about the University and what remains today is the opportunity to expand your horizons, meet new people, try new things and ultimately exceed your own expectations. No one will ever tell you 'you can't' and I love that about Binghamton University."
George Cummings '07, who met with students at a reception held on the Binghamton University campus, shared his experiences as a non-traditional student.
"I loved my time at Binghamton and I love the opportunities to give back some of the passion I feel for that experience," Cummings says. "I felt empowered to express to them what I experienced being a student. It is so important that these young folks get excited about their education as it has been so important to me in my careers and should be equally important to them."
Lauren Carty '11, who attended at the reception in Valley Forge, Pa., says the most rewarding part of the experience was helping potential students realize the amazing adventures that await them at Binghamton.
"I wanted to communicate the huge array of opportunities available, and to encourage future students to do and learn as much as they possibly can," Carty says. "Seeing young people show strong interest in Binghamton makes me very proud."
If you'd like to help attract the best and brightest young students to Binghamton, we encourage you to become involved as an alumni admissions volunteer. Contact alumpres@binghamton.edu if you'd like to be engaged and make a difference.
