Spotlight - Perrotta

Annie Perrotta is a senior Exercise Science major, and working at Kent State Recreation and Wellness Services has been far more than a job – it has been a place to connect, grow, and step boldly into her future career. 

Annie joined RecWell in Fall 2022 and became actively involved with the Student Recreation and Wellness Council (SRC) in Fall 2023. Now, she works as a personal trainer with Fitness & Wellness. Starting here, she did not begin with a traditional online application. Instead, Annie took the initiative to reach out directly to someone she knew – a decision that opened the door to a greatly valuable experience. While having almost no prior experience working one-on-one with clients, the opportunity presented to her at RecWell gave her the chance to gain hands-on skills and experience.

Through Recreation & Wellness, Annie states that she has found a keen sense of community and belonging. She recalls attending a campus recreation conference at DePaul University in Chicago with other Midwest institutions as a pivotal moment for her here. She connected with students who have continued to support her even today.

Annie highlights the favorite part of her job as a personal trainer and a boxing instructor to be watching her clients grow, both personally and physically. “They usually start really quiet,” she shares, “and it’s great to see them become more confident and excited about their progress.” Seeing clients put trust in her and become friends with them expands her skills as an instructor. 

Outside of her position at the Rec, Annie has displayed leadership. She serves as the president and Community Engagement Officer of SRC, working closely with some of the Officers of Well-Being to continuously support student staff. Moreover, she has been a Group fitness boxing instructor with RecWell for six semesters now. She continues to expand her role in promoting wellness across campus, starting here. 

Seema Dhaher was the earlier president of SRC, and Annie credits her as one of the biggest influences in her position. Annie hesitated to apply for the Student RecWell Council, and Seema encouraged her to attend the student-leader training even though it was optional. Seema pointed out her leadership potential, and with her advice, Annie stepped outside her comfort zone and became the president herself. Later, she was given Student Ambassador of the Year (2024-25) within Fitness and Wellness, another moment exemplifying her inspiring influence. 

Annie offers straightforward advice for students considering a job with the RecWell: “The more you put into the job, the more you get out of it.” Annie references how she came to RecWell not knowing anyone, and all it took was for her to go out and connect with others to bring her the opportunities she has gotten now. Annie encourages students to avoid the mindset of doing everything alone and to stay involved and find community to build together. 

A fun fact about Annie? She recently celebrated five whole years of being vegan and says she’s excited for the next 70 years.