Senior Spotlight

Meet Marc Hershey

 

Class: December 2019

Major: math (4+1 Engineer program w/ Villanova)

Fun Fact: Marc is related to Milton Hershey!

Marc Hershey, a third-year senior from Mechanicsburg, PA is a Math Major at Eastern University. Graduating in December of 2019, Marc currently participates in a joint 4+1 engineering program with Villanova University to help further his postgraduate studies.

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How did you become involved with the joint program at Villanova University?

I first heard about the joint program from freshman tours and events to help
underclassmen decide their majors. I always knew I wanted to study math, and that it was God’s
calling. I have heard about how engineers can use their work for the Kingdom. Through this
program, I am working towards a Masters in Mechanical Engineering with a focus in dynamic
controls.

What is it like being a student at 2 colleges?

This is currently my third year of the Nova program. It is my 2nd semester of being a
dual enrolled student at both Eastern and Villanova. I am a studying math at Eastern and
engineering at Villanova. Each college has presented me with a unique experience. While the
Christian culture of Eastern has been greatly influential, the professors at Villanova have
provided me with resources and networks to further my studies.

What have you learned from your experience in the Villanova program?

This has shaped me into being bold. It gave me the courage to dive in and to really
engage in things that are new. Part of who I am is who I am called to be and I received the
affirmation for what I want to do with my life from participating in this program. I am also
grateful for the support I received from my professors in Eastern’s math department as well as
from my peers.

How have you been involved on campus at eu?

 Currently, I serve as Small Group Coordinator for LFP, play drums and minister on a
Wednesday Night Worship team. I also work for the athletic department by announcing home
games and running stats, participate in Ultimate Frisbee, and am a member of Sigma Zeta. In the
past, I was also a hall chaplain as well as a small group leader.

Can you tell us a bit more about your role as SG coordinator?

As SG Coordinator, I orient the fall small group leaders, help adjust the small group
curriculum based on experience, keep track of attendance, and manage our budget. I am
currently working with Dr. Stutzman to help develop this fairly new role.

How has your involvement in LFP and role as SG Coordinator influenced you?

I met my best friends in LFP. Having fall orientation together and small group has
massively benefited towards developing a culture of unity. It has also given me the opportunity
to lead as a small group leader and small group Coordinator. I have learned a lot about leadership
in general by working with other leaders. It is truly an amazing learning experience. Being a part
of LFP has taught me about Courage, such as courage in being a pioneer for Villanova’s 4+1
program.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I will graduate from Eastern this December, along with another course in the spring. Then
I will continue on to Villanova to obtain my Masters in Mechanical Engineering. In the future, I
would like to work towards using my engineering skills to work in a hospital and help improve
doctors’ abilities to heal patients by developing treatment technology and ultimately aid in
saving lives. Also, I would like to do Missions work and help bring sustainable and sufficient
hospital resources to communities in need.