What is your preferred name and major(s) and minor(s)?
Haley Jacobs. Major: Exercise Science and Physical Education. Minor: Biology
What are some of the jobs you held at McDaniel?
My Freshman and Sophomore year I worked as a lifeguard at Harlow Pool, and then my Junior and Senior year I worked as a student athletic trainer in the Training Room up until this spring. I know currently work off campus at a local PT clinic. I have also done a variety of volunteer work for McDaniel and in the community.
What organizations were you part of at McDaniel?
Goalkeeper for the Women’s Soccer Team, member of the Exercise Science Club, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, Phi Beta Kappa, Beta Beta Beta Biology Honors Society, Order of Omega and Gamma Sigma Alpha Greek Honors Societies, and Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honors Society.
How much did you enjoy your time at McDaniel?
I am so happy that I chose McDaniel because I have been able to meet people who have changed my life. I also was able to prepare myself for PA school and had plenty of experiences that helped me grow as a student and as a person. My senior year has been a true blessing; from making it to the Sweet 16 for soccer and getting into PA school, to just being able to spend time with my best friends. I have had a great time on the Hill!
Who do you think is/was your best mentor(s)?
Dr. McCole in the Exercise Science Department was definitely my best mentor throughout my time at McDaniel. He is my advisor, and not only helped prepare my course load for graduate school, but he also gave me a lot of beneficial feedback in my preparation for PA school interviews. I have known him for over 4 years, since my sister also attended McDaniel, so being able to establish a professional connection with him has helped prepare me for my future endeavors. I am very appreciative for all that he has done for me.
What were some of the challenges you encountered and how did you overcome them?
Being a student athlete has been difficult at times. There are nights that I had to spend more time in the library because I had a late practice or game, and then some mornings that I had to get up for a 6am practice with an exam right after. I was forced to manage my time well and prioritize what was most important to me.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am attending Thomas Jefferson University to pursue a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies starting at the end of May. After graduating from what is technically known as the Jefferson College of Health Professions, I will be a practicing Physician Assistant.
What is your best memory at McDaniel? What is your worst memory at McDaniel?
My best memory would have to be going to Boston with my soccer team for the Sweet 16 in the fall and especially going to Spain with my team over the summer. It is a fun group of girls to travel with, and I was able to play the sport that I love and create some great memories. The worst memory is a tough one…I would probably say losing to John’s Hopkins in the Centennial Conference Championships. Although our season continued into the NCAA tournament, it would have been so rewarding to end my career with a championship title.
What advice can you give to those not graduating?
Get involved in a variety of fields. A lot of people make the mistake of pursuing their future without any experience, so it makes it that much harder to figure out what your true passion is. Hold a variety of leadership positions, apply for jobs, network yourself. Anything additional effort that you make will pay off in the long run!
Anything else you want to share with the world?
I think I covered most of what I have to say! I just would encourage everyone to follow their dream (as cheesy as that sounds) and to challenge yourself!
