Student Snapshot: Joseph Majkut ’25

Joseph Majkut,

As a volunteer firefighter with Carlisle’s Union Fire Company, Joseph Majkut ’25 responded to 51 calls during his first year at Dickinson, while also getting involved with campus clubs, making new friends, getting to know his professors and earning a spot on Dean’s List. He says the keys to his successful and satisfying year were the Orientation Resource Fair, which helped him get involved right away, on and off campus; and his office visits with professors and other professionals who've helped him make the most of his time at Dickinson. As he gets ready for next year, he looks forward to continuing to give back to the community, working as a teaching assistant and serving his first internship.

Hometown:

Holliston, Massachusetts.

Major:

Psychology.

Clubs and organizations:

Union Fire Company, Volleyball Club and Swing Dance Club.

Change A Life, Change the WorldHonors/scholarships/awards:

1783 Scholarship, Dean’s List and Alpha Lambda Delta honor society.

Favorite book:

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown.

Favorite movie:

Rocky.

On choosing Dickinson:

I learned the most about Dickinson through my admissions counselor, Kate Guertin, who is outstanding. She responded to my questions thoughtfully and took the time to get to know me, all through emails and Zoom! She made sure I knew about the opportunities that Dickinson offers, and Dickinson quickly became my top choice. I even committed two days before visiting campus. Ms. Guertin also emailed me on Move-In Day to let me know she’d be available on campus if I needed her. We finally got to meet in person, and it really helped to see a familiar face during that time.

Favorite place on campus:

The Kline Center.

Favorite class:

In Psychology 155 - Human Development: Conception through Adolescence, I was challenged to “raise” Joey Jr., my virtual child, for whom I was responsible as the class progressed. It was a fun and eye-opening experience to practice the child-development and parenting concepts that we learned, although we recognized that the virtual environment allowed us to take an extended period of time to make each parenting decision—time that is not available to parents in the real world.

Proudest accomplishment so far:

I was proud to be voted in as a member of Union Fire Company in Carlisle in April 2022. I had attended the Campus & Community Resource Fair during Orientation and signed up as volunteer at the company, thinking it would be a great way to contribute to the Carlisle community. At best, I thought I could complete observations and maybe get a ride or two in the fire truck. However, the members of the company made sure I was immersed into the firefighter experience and could contribute in an authentic way. I completed the first two introductory fire-training programs, participated in weekly training exercises and joined the company in responding to 51 calls (my goal was to reach 50). This spring they referred me to the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety in Carlisle, where I plan to complete an internship during sophomore year, while also continuing to volunteer with the company.

Favorite professor:

I cannot pick just one. I have benefited from getting to know all of my professors, who are passionate about their respective subject matters and challenge us in the classroom. Visiting my professors during office hours has allowed them to get to know me as well, and they have happily responded to my requests for advice about projects and exams as well as about classes, independent-study ideas, job and internship opportunities and life in general.

Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:

The people! The faculty are incredible—they are dedicated to helping their students. One of my psychology professors recommended that I apply for a research position, and another helped me apply for a TA position. Jen Clough at the Advising, Internships & Career Center at Biddle has been a valuable resource helping me explore and plan summer opportunities. My financial-aid rep, Mackenzie Weaver, has answered my questions and helped me navigate the steps to complete paperwork for my financial aid. Last but not least, I have enjoyed my time with an incredible group of friends. Meeting them has enhanced all of my experiences on campus.

Most important thing I’ve learned so far:

I’ve learned that it’s important to get involved right when you arrive on campus. I recommend that first-year students consider participating in the WILD Explore More Program during Orientation. I had an absolute blast on my WILD Basecamp trip, and it was a great way to meet people. Also, visit your professors. They are interested in getting to know their students and offer valuable input and advice.

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Published July 18, 2022