Student & Alumni Spotlights

Student - Sawyer Polen

What is your current program of study?

I am an exercise physiology major and I plan to enter a physical therapy program after graduation in 2015.

Hometown:

Wooster, Ohio

Favorite class?

Dr. Leslie's General Chemistry 1 class.

As a member of the KSU baseball team, what is the biggest challenge you face as a student athlete?The biggest challenge I have is making sure that I am prepared for multiple exams on the same day. 

What is your favorite thing about Kent State University? 

My favorite thing about Kent is meeting new people everyday and being able to create friendships with them.

Alumni - Jennifer Stefanak

When did you graduate?

Spring 2012 with my undergrad and December 2013 with my Master’s.

Where do you live?

Streetsboro, Ohio

Who are you employed by and how long have you been there?

I am the Director of Fitness and Wellness at LifeCenter Plus, as well as the Wellness Director of Central Wellness a Corporate Wellness Company. Both are located in Hudson, Ohio. I began at LifeCenter in August 2013 and I started Central Wellness in December of 2013.

What is your role/what do you do at your job?

I oversee the Fitness Staff, Personal Trainers, Group Exercise Instructors, Wellness Specialists, Training and Development staff and our registered dietician. One of my main priorities with my staff is professional development. I love to send my staff to workshops, certifications, seminars and more to ensure that they are growing in their career and staying current in the field. I am constantly evaluating programming and researching new ideas we can incorporate in this facility. I love to stay current and I obtain most of this information from the American College of Sports Medicine as well as the IDEA Fitness Journal.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you since graduation?

The most exciting thing that has happened to me would definitely be getting a full-time job just before graduating with my Master’s. My experiences at Kent State University in the Exercise Physiology department truly prepared me for all aspects of my position and for that I am very thankful!

What are your hobbies?

I absolutely love to take yoga and barre classes. I am also a registered yoga instructor and enjoy teaching classes. On the side I teach dance at a few local studios and prepare them for competition with technique classes, conditioning and choreography. I love the outdoors and spending time with my boyfriend, family and my dog!