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One of Erin Hawley’s favorite memories at Kent State was singing at karaoke night. Staged by the Flash Activities Board, the event packs students into then Quaker Steak and Lube, now Tahini’s in The Rathskeller, where they belted out original tunes to the delight, or displeasure, of classmates. Erin’s favorite go-to ballads were original songs.

Erin chose the Kent State Career and Community Studies program because she “loved going to college and meeting new friends.” One of those friends, Elise, was a roommate in the dormitory where Erin lived with three other classmates. Erin and Elise are still in touch.

She also enjoyed weight training for women, and Red Cross and history were her preferred clubs. Without question, Erin’s favorite Kent State faculty member was Lecturer Danielle Manring, M.Ed., who currently teaches personal exploration, technology workshop, financial literacy, health and wellness, and career preparation. Which was Erin’s favorite? All of them.

“I always enjoyed having Erin in class,” said Manring. “I could count on her to lead a brainstorm with any small group she worked with. Erin is an incredibly hard worker and passionate about caring for others.”

Erin was part of the Career and Community Studies program from 2015–2019, focusing on nursing and health. She completed her senior internship at Stow-Glen Retirement Village while taking classes at Kent State. “Erin worked hard during her certifications senior year,” Manring added. “She dedicated a lot of time and effort to preparing for a position as a dietary aide.”

Erin’s job preparation is paying dividends. She has spent the last four years working part-time as a dietary aide serving food and beverages to residents at Medina Meadows, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center.

“The residents at the center make me very happy,” she said. “My favorite resident is Judy. She’s very nice, and we sometimes do a lot of things together.”

Manring remembers Erin knowing what accommodations might help her, and how to access those accommodations responsibly. Once a month, Erin interfaces with a job coach but works independently most days. Problem solving and self-advocacy are two skills she learned as a student in the CCS program. “I have to ask for help sometimes, but I can do my own tasks.”

Erin believes the experience she gained while working at Stow-Glenn, coupled with the cooking classes she took at Kent State, have prepared her for her current position. She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the CCS program.

“Education is important,” she said. “Students should meet new people, make friends and continue the journey.”