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Katie Kobel

Major: Communications, journalism and public relations

Hometown: Webster, Massachusetts

Why did you choose to attend Salem State?

When I visited Salem State for the first time, I instantly got that feeling of 'home'. The atmosphere and the environment were exactly what I was looking for. They had the major and minor I wanted and also had various activities and sports on campus that I loved as well.

What surprised you the most when you got here?

The number of clubs and groups we ACTUALLY have. I was unaware of just how many diverse groups we have here on campus. From dance to writing, to sports, to just anything you could possibly imagine.

What are you involved in on campus?

I was formerly on the women's soccer team but had to take a year off for internships and academics. I am also a student ambassador, a choreographer and dancer on Repertory Dance Theatre, and a member of our school's chapter of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America).

What's it like living on campus?

Living on campus gives you the opportunity to connect and become a part of the community of the school. We have so many fun and different events on campus all the time from barbeques, to bingo nights, open mic nights, and so much more. Being on campus, you have the opportunity to always be around to go to these events with friends. It also makes getting to classes a bit easier. Even just having your roommates around all the time and making friends within your dorms and hanging out on a Friday night watching movies with all your friends in the dorm is an experience you won't get living off campus.

Best Salem State Experience so far?

My best experience has honestly been just the dorm environment. A group of friends and I would do Wednesday movie nights where we all piled into one dorm and pick a movie and watch it together. We still try and continue this now in our third year at Salem State.

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus? Downtown?

My favorite place to hang out on campus is Starbucks. I feel like its the most convenient place to meet up, there's food and drinks, comfy seating, a good place to talk or do homework, and it's so busy and right in the middle of campus your bound to run into more people you know. My favorite place downtown is the Willows. With so many activities, the arcade, mini golf, ice cream, it's a fun place. But at the same time it has such a gorgeous view right on the water and can be nice to just go and hangout there to relax.

Tell us about a time you had the opportunity to learn about your academic program beyond a textbook or outside of the classroom.

I found out about PRSSA my sophomore year and this was such an amazing opportunity to learn more about my major as well as get ahead in making connections with outside sources as well. The group gets together to talk about our careers and make new connections with people who can help us succeed and give us real-life experiences.

What's one piece of advice or guidance you would give to someone considering attending Salem State?

Try everything. College is your time to explore your interest. Take those random courses you're unsure about to see if you really like the topic. You'll never get this opportunity again.

Name one item you can't live without during the school year.

I cannot live without my planner. My planner has all of my due dates, homework, work schedule, and important dates and events in it. Without it, I'd be lost and have absolutely no idea what I was supposed to be doing.

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