Alex Newnes came to Kent State University uncertain about her future. One academic year later, the now-sophomore from Willoughby has found her direction through service, leadership and self-discovery.
Newnes, who entered through the university's Exploratory program, has been selected as an exploratory mentor and FLASH 101 instructor for next year. She also completed a life-changing mission trip to Costa Rica during spring break.
"I didn't want to say I was undecided," Newnes said. "I said that I was gonna travel the world and help people, and I've just kind of been like using that as like my motto for this past year."
The Costa Rica trip, organized through the campus Christian group Cru, involved distributing water filters to communities lacking clean water access. Newnes worked with a team that brought 60 water filters to the country, representing 600 years of clean water for families.
"It was life-changing to see their hospitality and see the difference between the States and in these different countries," she said.
Academically, Newnes is exploring park management and tourism through Kent State's Bachelor of Integrative Studies program. She's considering a focus in earth science with minors in American Sign Language and religious studies.
Her interest in park management grew from informational interviews with Cleveland Metroparks Zoo staff, where she learned about roles combining animal care with volunteer coordination.
"It's not all people-related, but it is people-related," she said. "That's kind of more of my passion -- helping people."
Newnes credits the Exploratory program's structure, including hour-long advising sessions, with helping her navigate academic decisions. She lives in a Living-Learning Community where she connected with peer mentors.
"Be nice to everyone because you never know where the relationship could lead," she advises incoming students. "I think the Exploratory program is the best way to go."
Looking ahead, Newnes has applied to study abroad in Florence next spring. She's also working full-time at an ice cream shop this summer while preparing for her expanded campus roles.
"You never know like where your life is gonna go," she said. "I was so nervous coming to Kent, and now I'm just excited to see where everything is going to lead and what I'm going to learn next."
The Exploratory program, housed in University College, provides structured support for students exploring academic and career options through specialized courses and extended advising sessions.