June 21, 2023 • 21 mins
Part two our three-part commencement series special checks out the 2023 Health Sciences commencement on May 18, 2023. We'll speak with the 2023 RCBC President's Award winner Taylor Fritz, catch up with Health Sciences graduates and hear a few clips from this memorable event.
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Jason Varga (00:01):
Welcome to the program pod a national award
winning program on the rcbcPodcast Network, which takes a
deep dive into the programsoffered at rcbc. through
different perspectives ofstudents, faculty and employers.
fancy little intro right there.Yeah, new stuff there. But
actually, we're gonna be doing alittle different here. As I'm
starting this whole new project.This is Jay Varga, by the way.
(00:22):
Hi, I'm the host of the programpod, but we're kind of going
into the field for rcbc 2023commencements. And we're gonna
be doing a three part seriesover the summer. So we're gonna
be dropping for liberal arts,stem and Health Sciences and
kind of pieced together we'regonna bring in some of the
President's Award winners, thevaledictorian and speak with
(00:42):
some of the students, they'regonna be live at graduation,
pulling some clips and such. So,first up, right out of the gate,
we're gonna get to Taylor, FritzTaylor. How're you doing? Doing?
Unknown (00:53):
Very good. I'm very excited to be here. Yeah.
Jason Varga (00:55):
Yeah, we were talking off, you know, some kind
of getting ready for the showand stuff. And I said, Hey, do
you listen to podcasts? And yousay,
Unknown (01:01):
I love podcasts. And I've always wanted to be on a
podcast episode or have my ownpodcast,
Jason Varga (01:06):
well get the first part down, you know, but you're
now on officially on a podcastand such. And I was, as I was
setting up here, as we arebackstage here behind voter
voter hall or vote auditorium,you're preparing for your
speech, because we're gonna bedoing that live. Surely,
depending when we dropped thispodcast, but rehearsing for your
speech and stuff. Are you readyfor your commencement speech?
Unknown (01:24):
Yes, I have been practicing at home, getting to
practice like on an actual stagealso helped a lot. In high
school, I did theater. So I'mlike you said like talking and
being in front of a crowd. Butand that's going to be like a
totally different setup atgraduation, because I'll
actually be able to see everyonewatching me instead of just
looking out into darkness,
Jason Varga (01:45):
just a little different, especially when
you're on stage and stuff likethat one here at Votto
auditorium, you can kind ofstare off into the lights, and
people can't tell if you'relooking at them or not. And you
can't see anybody because you'reso blinded by the light. Just
gotta stare at a back wall.Yeah, exactly. And by the way,
actually, so I can rewind alittle bit for the listeners
that are tuned in. So you're the2023, one of the 2023
President's Award winner, you'regoing to be speaking for which
(02:07):
commencement? Again, the HealthSciences ceremony. That's right.
But you're also graduating forthe different ceremony, right?
Graduating in liberal arts?Yeah, well, first of all, what
brought you to rcbc.
Unknown (02:15):
So it's just something that's always been close to
home, it was always an option.Like, in the back of my mind,
when I was thinking about goingto college. I applied to like a
bunch of other places aroundhere. But when it all came down
to it, I was like, Okay, this ismy best option, financially. And
just geographically, I guess,because it's about 10 minutes
(02:35):
from my house, I can stay athome can work. And I can also
like, come here. And I knew likethe nursing program, which is my
current major was really, reallygood here. And that's pretty
Jason Varga (02:48):
much what brought me here. Is that what you want
to do with nursing right out ofthe gate? Yes,
Unknown (02:51):
I really want to become a nurse practitioner. So once
I'm done in the three plus oneprogram, I'm hoping to get my
doctorate for nursepractitioner.
Jason Varga (02:59):
Okay, so when I fast forward to so my question
is, later on, I say, where doyou see yourself now, four or
five years from now? We alreadykind of
Unknown (03:04):
got that one. Right, that one will probably be in
school.
Jason Varga (03:08):
So did you see yourself being like a
president's award winner andspeak in front of the, you know,
the 2023 class?
Unknown (03:13):
No, I genuinely didn't think that I would like get
picked for it. I just didn'treally feel like, that was
something that would happen tome, almost. Um, when Dr. COC
called me to tell me that I hadwon. The first time he tried to
call me I was in class. And thenof course, the second time when
he called me I was at work. So Iwas like, Hey, can I go call him
(03:34):
back? And my coworkers are like,yeah, and he like, told me that
I want and, and I was like, Oh,my goodness, the first thing I
said was, Are you serious? It'slike it was on like an episode
of punked.
Jason Varga (03:46):
Right? All right. Well, look, you earn it. I mean,
I'm reading here, right now youmaintain a 4.0 GPA.
Congratulations, by the way, Icould never do anything like
that. So how'd that make youfeel? You know, you're doing a
4.0 and obviously is leading tothis. How's that make y'all
feel?
Unknown (03:59):
It all feels kind of just surreal. Like it doesn't
feel like this is actuallyhappening. Because in high
school, like I was a goodstudent, but like my freshman
year, I really, really wasstruggling. Like I wasn't really
doing the best academically, orat least I knew I could do
better. It's just I wasn't doingit. But then when I got here, I
was like, Okay, I can't let thathappen again, I can't let the
(04:20):
changing environment affect me.I just have to do my best work
as hard as I possibly can makeuse of like the tools that I'm
given. And yes, just using thatis what brought me to have that.
And it's also very humbling. Itwas a very humbling experience.
Because like I said, like, Ijust never really like thought I
could do it. And then being ableto do it, I was like, wow, like,
(04:41):
it almost was surprising. Like Ialmost surprised myself by doing
it because I didn't think that Iwas going to be able to divorce
it was a goal but I just didn'tthink I was going to be able to
do it.
Jason Varga (04:49):
It's amazing the power of motivation, right and
the mind, you know, and youworked at as part of your mantra
into the into the speech you'regonna be speaking with,
Unknown (04:56):
yes, it was if not now than when? Right?
Jason Varga (04:58):
I love that. I love that quote. So what's been your
favorite moment? Your favoritepart? You know, do you have a
favorite class,
Unknown (05:04):
I really liked my masterpieces of literature with
Dr. Ball. It was such a funclass. She liked the assignment
she gave us were like reallylike interactive, you got to
work in groups a lot. She alsojust made the class a great
experience, I look forward togoing every single time because
I knew it was going to be a goodday if I had that class. And she
(05:26):
was the one that wrote me myletter of recommendation. So I
really cannot like thank herenough for what she's done to
bring me here. Yeah,
Jason Varga (05:34):
she's leaving, like that lasting impression for you.
Last summer, you attended thisleadership session with other
New Jersey students involvedwith Phi Theta Kappa, the middle
states region conference. Canyou tell us what that was all
about? And you know, some of thebiggest takeaways from that what
it
Unknown (05:45):
was, it was, I think the states are New Jersey,
Pennsylvania, Delaware, andMaryland. We all met at Rice
University for a couple dayslast July, I think it was, we
like stayed there. And then wehad like, different seminars
throughout the day about likeleadership, our honors and
Action Project, which is likethey give us a theme each year,
(06:06):
I believe this one was like theart and science of play. So it
was like talking to us aboutlike, how to come up with a good
project for it, and how to belike good leaders in your
community. And I think that itwas really like interesting to
see like different people'slike, perspectives and like how
like they do leadership at theirschools. The girls that I was
(06:27):
with, we like still talk to thisday. They're like the coolest
people ever. And like we got todo like teamwork building
skills, like they gave us a pileof crap supplies. And they gave
us the prompt of you're strandedon a desert island use this to
build something to get off ofthe islands so we had to be
(06:49):
like, Oh, well what this worklike and giving each other ideas
that was like a really funactivity.
Jason Varga (06:54):
What do you guys build?
Unknown (06:55):
We built I think the goofiest creation known demand.
We called it officially the SSplote It was a plane boat. It
was a boat that had wings. Itwas so so
Jason Varga (07:05):
interesting. So do you think you'd make it off the
island?
Unknown (07:09):
Yes. Like I think was stocked we had rations in there
and everything. It was so fun.
Jason Varga (07:14):
That's the last thing that I had there. What do
you like to do you know outsideof school
Unknown (07:18):
I love to read it is has been my favorite hobby since
I was like four. If you can'tfind me, I'm most likely either
in my room reading or in aBarnes and Noble buying more
books, even though I have like50 at home that I still need to
read. But that's just where I'vealways liked being because it's
like different worlds. I can goon escape for a little bit. I
(07:41):
also really like music. Big likeTaylor Swift.
Jason Varga (07:46):
And were you I guess so here because you're
here. Have you heard a nod to myother buddy was telling me that
people were camping out likecamping outside for this whole
merch.
Unknown (07:55):
I saw it this morning. Yeah. Whole day. I am going on
Saturday.
Jason Varga (07:58):
Okay, are you got tickets for the show? Yes.
Unknown (08:00):
I got them while I was here. Okay. I was off the
record. I was in class. You gotditching attention, but I got my
ticket.
Jason Varga (08:07):
Those tickets are so hard to get and because of
that, you know,
Unknown (08:10):
it's okay. You're able to get my tickets. It's gonna be
the best night of my life.
Jason Varga (08:14):
Yeah, I mean, I was reading now people were just, I
don't know if it was merch forthe show. Or get into the show.
Or just
Unknown (08:21):
like the day before she starts in a city they bring the
merch struck out and you can buymerch early. And it doesn't
matter if you have tickets ornot. People literally were
lining up. I think I saw onTwitter. The earliest was 330
this morning. Yeah. And like Ilove her. But like, I also love
my sleep. Yeah, I can. Yeah, Iknow. I get I mean, I did my
their dedication. But
Jason Varga (08:41):
I mean, there's some bands that fall around the
country. And I did similarthing. And they dropped these
posters and stuff. But I alwayslet my friends get the posters,
because I don't want theresponsibility of having a
poster through the show andsuch. But I mean, it was the day
before it gives a little bitbetter. I don't know if I would
actually wait out a whole daylike some of these
Unknown (08:55):
Swifties. And it's not even like it opens at like eight
in the morning. It doesn't openuntil noon. Yeah. That's a whole
what, like eight hours.
Jason Varga (09:02):
Yeah, I don't know if they have a job or not. Or
how they literally saw onTwitter. Someone said Do your
work or what? Right? All right.All right. So eventually, you
know, we are going to get toyour speech when you go to do
it. Live in front of everybody.Next week. I'm gonna pull clip
of that it's okay to share witheverybody, right? Because all
right, because we're going to dothat and then I'll have one you
know, you're going to be onYouTube. You're gonna be all
over the place. You're on apodcast command a YouTube
(09:23):
stream, you're gonna beworldwide. Yeah, you are. Like
Taylor Swift. You're you'regetting there. So what? Before I
wrap this up? What would yousay? I'm sure it's probably
worked into your speech to memessage for your fellow
classmates, you know, kind oflike where you were before. He
didn't know you didn't think youcould do it. But
Unknown (09:42):
that was probably one thing that if you think it can
be with anything, minepersonally was just like
breaking out of my shell beingmore outgoing, but if there's
anything that's standing in yourway, and you don't think that
you can get around it, you thinkthere's no way past it. There is
always It's kinda like thatsaying like the if there's a
will, there's a way Sure.Because like, if you don't do it
(10:04):
now, then when are you going tobe able to do it because it's
just going to keep holding youback. And you don't know where
you'll be able to go. If youfinally like, move past it,
because I certainly didn't thinkthat I'd be like, here right
now, like, three years ago whileI was still in high school, but
then I was like, Okay, I'm anadult, I'm a grown up. I can't
(10:27):
do this anymore. I just have todo it. It was terrifying. Like,
it literally made me like, actlike anxious, like, every day
that I was like, Oh, my God, I'mdoing this. But now, it's just
become really just a part of whoI am naturally. And that's
something I also talked about inmy speech, like, I don't have to
force myself to do it anymore.Because I used to have to, but
now it just comes so naturally,to me as a person that I would
(10:50):
really just say just, if there'sanything that you want to do,
but you're terrified to do it,just go for it. And it's gonna
be horrifying. It's gonna bescary. You're gonna want to give
up, but you just have to findlike your niche. You have to
find a big support group. That'sreally what helped me. Also talk
about that. Shout out to myfriends. Love you guys. But you
(11:12):
just have to find a goodbalance. And good people.
Jason Varga (11:17):
Before wrap up. Do you want to shout out? Anybody
else?
Unknown (11:19):
Shout out to my mom. Yeah. Because she has seen like,
the background, both my mom andmy sister have seen like, the
background workings of this,like I would come home and be
like, guys, like, I did thistoday. Are you guys proud of me?
And they're like, Yeah, go forit. And like, they just like
would hear me like talk aboutlike, how I felt like, before I
(11:40):
decided all this, like, theyjust saw me when I was really
like, shy. And I feel like theyalways were trying to like push
me out. And I just never wantedto do it. I was really, really
stubborn. Yeah. But I think Ithink they're proud of me. I at
least hope they're proud of me.I think they are. They are mom
and Bree. If you're listening tothis, please tell me you're
proud of me. It's all
Jason Varga (12:03):
well, we are proud of you again Taylor, Fritz 2023,
President's Award winner herefor rcbc gonna be speaking for
the Health Sciences class. Andof course, second graduating for
the liberal arts side. So I'mgonna see you a couple of times
throughout the next week. Butcoming up, we're gonna we're
gonna we're gonna go on to seeand talk to some other students.
Some of the health sciencesstudents get a little bit their
(12:23):
perspective is kind of goingthrough it and see what they're
all getting, you know, wild andwacky and all that stuff. But we
will also pull a clip of yourawesome speech. I get to hear a
little bit of today. So I'mlooking forward to that. So,
Taylor, again, thanks for comingon the show. Thank
Unknown (12:37):
you for having me.
Jason Varga (12:38):
You're welcome. All right, everyone. Taylor Swift by
the way, I will. Alright, so aspromised, now we're at the
Health Sciences, speaking withother students getting ready to
do their graduation ceremonies,J. Varga on the streets here. So
who do I have with me right now?Kailyn Kailyn. West, and where
are you from? Kailyn.
Unknown (12:52):
Mount Laurel.
Jason Varga (12:53):
So what brought you to rcbc? And obviously, you're
gonna be graduating here withhealth sciences. Oh, what
brought you here? What's yourmajor.
Unknown (12:59):
So my major is nursing. And I came here because they
have a three plus one programwhere you can get your
associates you'll be able tostart working and then you can
go to Rome for a year and getyour Bachelor's
Jason Varga (13:07):
you have a fair professor or class or moments.
Unknown (13:10):
So my favorite classes probably obey for nursing. I
like BB so it was a good classand the professor was MacBooks.
She was really helpful. What'snext for you? So hopefully I'll
get a job and be a licensednurse by the end of the summer.
Okay,
Jason Varga (13:22):
any congratulatory words you'd like to share with
your fellow classmates.
Unknown (13:26):
Congratulations, guys. We did it. It was a struggle,
but we're here now.
Jason Varga (13:31):
All right, so the next victim right down the line,
what's your name?
Unknown (13:34):
Karolina fairy?
Jason Varga (13:35):
Where are you from? Marlton Marlton sorry, you're
Cherokee chief? You're okay. Iwas a renegade, so,
Unknown (13:42):
I don't know. Okay.
Jason Varga (13:45):
So again, your major nursing nursing as well.
Did you have a favoriteexperience here at rcbc? Or what
are you gonna miss most aboutthis place?
Unknown (13:54):
I'm definitely going to miss seeing my friends every day
me and Kaitlyn became like bestfriends to the program. So I'm
going to miss seeing her everyday. Yeah, I think that's my
favorite experience, likemeeting people.
Jason Varga (14:04):
What's your next step?
Unknown (14:05):
I'm going to work for Home Healthcare while I go for
my bachelor's. And then after Iget my bachelor's, I think my
end goal was to maybe do likepediatrics, maybe oncology. So
we'll say okay,
Jason Varga (14:15):
where you get your Bachelor's that Rowan? Okay,
awesome. See now, I was arenegade, but now I was also a
prof too so we can share thatbond. My wife, my wife is a
Cherokee chief. Okay. And youwhat's your name? Tyler Tobin.
Tyler Tobin. Where and where areyou from? Marlton New Jersey.
Okay. Yeah, cuz you were talkingabout the charity when I brought
up the Shawnee Renegades aswell. So and are you a nursing
(14:36):
major as well or? Yeah. And whatwas your experience here? Like?
Unknown (14:41):
It was great. I mean, there was ups and downs.
Obviously it was a hard program.But getting to know such good
people around here. It was justan amazing experience. Overall,
Jason Varga (14:48):
any favorite professor favorite class
moments?
Unknown (14:50):
Favorite moment would probably be my clinical
professor Everett. She taught usa lot and really like stuck us
to everything. She wanted us toknow a lot but it We also heard
from it in the In a bit,
Jason Varga (15:00):
and what would you like to share with your fellow
classmates? Here is everyone'sgetting ready to graduate on
this gorgeous day.
Unknown (15:05):
It's a beautiful day. Let's have fun. Congratulations.
Thanks, guys.
Jason Varga (15:09):
Thanks. Next up, Ben, another health science
graduate. So what's your name?Priscilla. Priscilla? Um, where
are you from
Unknown (15:15):
Bali.
Jason Varga (15:15):
What drew you here to rcbc.
Unknown (15:17):
I was previously in the Burlington County BCC and then
they changed our CBC. And Iwanted to continue my education.
Okay,
Jason Varga (15:27):
so what are you here graduating for today?
Unknown (15:29):
I'm here graduating for Health Information Technician.
Jason Varga (15:32):
So what's going to be the next step for you after
your graduation today?
Unknown (15:35):
Next step is to continue to go to Cooney college
and be getting a bachelor'sdegree.
Jason Varga (15:41):
So how was your experience here at rcbc? Do you
think that prepares you for thenext step?
Unknown (15:44):
Yes, I do think they prepare me for the next step.
It's been an awesome experience.
Jason Varga (15:47):
What was awesome about it? Do you have a favorite
professor maybe a favorite classexperience here somewhere?
Unknown (15:51):
I just like all the classes and how available to do
everything from home not justhaving to come to the college.
Jason Varga (15:58):
And what would you like to say to your fellow
classmates today that are allgraduating?
Unknown (16:02):
Everybody? Congratulations, and can't wait
to see you guys.
Jason Varga (16:07):
Well, congratulations and good luck
with everything. You're wellnext up as we go down the line
here is everyone's so gettingall their other cards and get to
get their names presented forthe health sciences. So who do I
have a waiver now with me?
Unknown (16:18):
My name is Rachel and Rachel and
Jason Varga (16:20):
where are you from?
Unknown (16:21):
I'm from Marlton, New Jersey.
Jason Varga (16:22):
Oh, another Are you a Cherokee chief as well? Oh my
god. We're running into all theAmish Shawnee Renegade, so we're
talking about this. My wife is aCherokee to you. So what drew
you to rcbc
Unknown (16:30):
I was interested in their application to the nursing
program through high school. SoI entered my senior year and as
long as I maintained gradeswhile I was doing my
prerequisites, I was able toenter the nursing program.
Jason Varga (16:44):
So how's the nursing program experience been
for you? It's been
Unknown (16:47):
great. The professor's were so kind and they were
welcoming to the program. Andthey had a lot of experience
with nursing and different areasof nursing. So it was really
incredible to work with all ofthem. What type of
Jason Varga (17:01):
nursing field are you actually looking to get into
Unknown (17:03):
I started nursing with Virtua Voorhees. I am now a
medical surgical nurse. I'mlooking to extend my experience
in the field and possibly moveon into critical care in the
future.
Jason Varga (17:17):
What's the next step and you'll want to have
your bachelor's and such or
Unknown (17:20):
so I'm going to to Rowan University right now I'm
in my second semester. So Ishould be completing my
Bachelor's hopefully inDecember.
Jason Varga (17:29):
Awesome. So what's the one thing you're gonna miss
about this place here at rcbc?
Unknown (17:34):
The close proximity. Now, Rowan is majority majority
of the classes are online. So wereally don't have the
interaction between classmates,as we did here with this
program. Well, speaking
Jason Varga (17:47):
to your classmates, we'd like to give them a little
farewell message or anything fortheir congratulations today.
Unknown (17:51):
Congratulations. And don't stop learning.
Jason Varga (17:53):
Don't stop learning. I love that and
something I tried to stand by aswell as a life long learner. But
as promised, let's check out aclip from rcbc President award
winner Taylor Fritz we had onearlier in this episode and her
commencement speech to theHealth Sciences crowd
Unknown (18:07):
had I not been given that push to let go of my fear
and to stop holding myself back.I would not be where I am right
now. If I could go back and tellmy past self one thing, it would
be that it gets better. When youfinally push down those barriers
and take control of yourjourney, you might just find who
(18:27):
you're supposed to be. And I'mhappy to say that I finally
found my place in this world. AsI conclude my speech, I would
like to leave you all with onepiece of advice. As you move
forward on your journey.Remember this moment in the back
of your mind. This moment whereyou officially put yourself out
into the world. Know that ineach and every single one of
(18:50):
you. There's a fire inside youthat can't help but shine
through. Make the best out ofevery situation that you are
handed. Take the moment andtaste it. Hold on to these
memories and they will hold onto you. Congratulations to the
Rowan College, Burlington Countyclass of 2023. Go forward and
push yourself to be the personthat you aspire to be. And I
(19:13):
can't wait to hear about all ofthe memories you make along your
journey. Thank you.
Jason Varga (19:19):
Bravo Taylor. Bravo. And remember when we were
talking about how much of aTaylor Swift Fan she was earlier
in the show, while she dropped13 Taylor Swift quotes because
while Taylor Swift's favoritenumber 13 So she did 13 of them
throughout the commencementspeech, you can head over to the
rcbc YouTube channel to checkout the entire speech and see if
you can pick them out.Meanwhile, for more information
(19:40):
on RCB C's Health Scienceprogram including nursing,
dental health informationmanagement programs, and more,
you can visit rcbc.edu Staytuned for next month's episode
where the program pod wraps upthe 2023 rcbc commencement
coverage with the stem divisionfor now. Thanks for listening
and let's have rcbc PresidentDr. Michael COC wrap things up
at this year's Well, scientistsgraduation ceremony now
President Cioce (20:02):
I don't see anybody else in need of a
degree. But if you're interestedregistration for Fall is open.
So if you want to take part inthis in two years, go across the
building right behind it.Congratulations to the members
of the Class of 2023. Graduates,you may now move your tassel
from your right to your left.
(20:30):
Before we conclude, I just wantto applaud the faculty and staff
who have worked tirelessly toprepare the next generation of
leaders. A round of applause forall the family and friends in
the audience and those watchingat home who have supported our
graduates every step of theirjourney. Now, if you have an air
(20:51):
horn, here's your last chance.So one final round of applause
to the graduates in the class of2023. Congratulations on your
accomplishment. Thank you, drainthem, drain them can't do
anything with them later. Drainthem. As we conclude today's
ceremony, I asked that ourguests remain standing at your
(21:12):
seats while the platform gueststo exit and lead the faculty
staff and graduates out of thequad. Congratulations class of
2023
Welcome to the program pod a national award
winning program on the rcbcPodcast Network, which takes a
deep dive into the programsoffered at rcbc. through
different perspectives ofstudents, faculty and employers.
fancy little intro right there.Yeah, new stuff there. But
actually, we're gonna be doing alittle different here. As I'm
starting this whole new project.This is Jay Varga, by the way.
(00:22):
Hi, I'm the host of the programpod, but we're kind of going
into the field for rcbc 2023commencements. And we're gonna
be doing a three part seriesover the summer. So we're gonna
be dropping for liberal arts,stem and Health Sciences and
kind of pieced together we'regonna bring in some of the
President's Award winners, thevaledictorian and speak with
(00:42):
some of the students, they'regonna be live at graduation,
pulling some clips and such. So,first up, right out of the gate,
we're gonna get to Taylor, FritzTaylor. How're you doing? Doing?
Unknown (00:53):
Very good. I'm very excited to be here. Yeah.
Jason Varga (00:55):
Yeah, we were talking off, you know, some kind
of getting ready for the showand stuff. And I said, Hey, do
you listen to podcasts? And yousay,
Unknown (01:01):
I love podcasts. And I've always wanted to be on a
podcast episode or have my ownpodcast,
Jason Varga (01:06):
well get the first part down, you know, but you're
now on officially on a podcastand such. And I was, as I was
setting up here, as we arebackstage here behind voter
voter hall or vote auditorium,you're preparing for your
speech, because we're gonna bedoing that live. Surely,
depending when we dropped thispodcast, but rehearsing for your
speech and stuff. Are you readyfor your commencement speech?
Unknown (01:24):
Yes, I have been practicing at home, getting to
practice like on an actual stagealso helped a lot. In high
school, I did theater. So I'mlike you said like talking and
being in front of a crowd. Butand that's going to be like a
totally different setup atgraduation, because I'll
actually be able to see everyonewatching me instead of just
looking out into darkness,
Jason Varga (01:45):
just a little different, especially when
you're on stage and stuff likethat one here at Votto
auditorium, you can kind ofstare off into the lights, and
people can't tell if you'relooking at them or not. And you
can't see anybody because you'reso blinded by the light. Just
gotta stare at a back wall.Yeah, exactly. And by the way,
actually, so I can rewind alittle bit for the listeners
that are tuned in. So you're the2023, one of the 2023
President's Award winner, you'regoing to be speaking for which
(02:07):
commencement? Again, the HealthSciences ceremony. That's right.
But you're also graduating forthe different ceremony, right?
Graduating in liberal arts?Yeah, well, first of all, what
brought you to rcbc.
Unknown (02:15):
So it's just something that's always been close to
home, it was always an option.Like, in the back of my mind,
when I was thinking about goingto college. I applied to like a
bunch of other places aroundhere. But when it all came down
to it, I was like, Okay, this ismy best option, financially. And
just geographically, I guess,because it's about 10 minutes
(02:35):
from my house, I can stay athome can work. And I can also
like, come here. And I knew likethe nursing program, which is my
current major was really, reallygood here. And that's pretty
Jason Varga (02:48):
much what brought me here. Is that what you want
to do with nursing right out ofthe gate? Yes,
Unknown (02:51):
I really want to become a nurse practitioner. So once
I'm done in the three plus oneprogram, I'm hoping to get my
doctorate for nursepractitioner.
Jason Varga (02:59):
Okay, so when I fast forward to so my question
is, later on, I say, where doyou see yourself now, four or
five years from now? We alreadykind of
Unknown (03:04):
got that one. Right, that one will probably be in
school.
Jason Varga (03:08):
So did you see yourself being like a
president's award winner andspeak in front of the, you know,
the 2023 class?
Unknown (03:13):
No, I genuinely didn't think that I would like get
picked for it. I just didn'treally feel like, that was
something that would happen tome, almost. Um, when Dr. COC
called me to tell me that I hadwon. The first time he tried to
call me I was in class. And thenof course, the second time when
he called me I was at work. So Iwas like, Hey, can I go call him
(03:34):
back? And my coworkers are like,yeah, and he like, told me that
I want and, and I was like, Oh,my goodness, the first thing I
said was, Are you serious? It'slike it was on like an episode
of punked.
Jason Varga (03:46):
Right? All right. Well, look, you earn it. I mean,
I'm reading here, right now youmaintain a 4.0 GPA.
Congratulations, by the way, Icould never do anything like
that. So how'd that make youfeel? You know, you're doing a
4.0 and obviously is leading tothis. How's that make y'all
feel?
Unknown (03:59):
It all feels kind of just surreal. Like it doesn't
feel like this is actuallyhappening. Because in high
school, like I was a goodstudent, but like my freshman
year, I really, really wasstruggling. Like I wasn't really
doing the best academically, orat least I knew I could do
better. It's just I wasn't doingit. But then when I got here, I
was like, Okay, I can't let thathappen again, I can't let the
(04:20):
changing environment affect me.I just have to do my best work
as hard as I possibly can makeuse of like the tools that I'm
given. And yes, just using thatis what brought me to have that.
And it's also very humbling. Itwas a very humbling experience.
Because like I said, like, Ijust never really like thought I
could do it. And then being ableto do it, I was like, wow, like,
(04:41):
it almost was surprising. Like Ialmost surprised myself by doing
it because I didn't think that Iwas going to be able to divorce
it was a goal but I just didn'tthink I was going to be able to
do it.
Jason Varga (04:49):
It's amazing the power of motivation, right and
the mind, you know, and youworked at as part of your mantra
into the into the speech you'regonna be speaking with,
Unknown (04:56):
yes, it was if not now than when? Right?
Jason Varga (04:58):
I love that. I love that quote. So what's been your
favorite moment? Your favoritepart? You know, do you have a
favorite class,
Unknown (05:04):
I really liked my masterpieces of literature with
Dr. Ball. It was such a funclass. She liked the assignment
she gave us were like reallylike interactive, you got to
work in groups a lot. She alsojust made the class a great
experience, I look forward togoing every single time because
I knew it was going to be a goodday if I had that class. And she
(05:26):
was the one that wrote me myletter of recommendation. So I
really cannot like thank herenough for what she's done to
bring me here. Yeah,
Jason Varga (05:34):
she's leaving, like that lasting impression for you.
Last summer, you attended thisleadership session with other
New Jersey students involvedwith Phi Theta Kappa, the middle
states region conference. Canyou tell us what that was all
about? And you know, some of thebiggest takeaways from that what
it
Unknown (05:45):
was, it was, I think the states are New Jersey,
Pennsylvania, Delaware, andMaryland. We all met at Rice
University for a couple dayslast July, I think it was, we
like stayed there. And then wehad like, different seminars
throughout the day about likeleadership, our honors and
Action Project, which is likethey give us a theme each year,
(06:06):
I believe this one was like theart and science of play. So it
was like talking to us aboutlike, how to come up with a good
project for it, and how to belike good leaders in your
community. And I think that itwas really like interesting to
see like different people'slike, perspectives and like how
like they do leadership at theirschools. The girls that I was
(06:27):
with, we like still talk to thisday. They're like the coolest
people ever. And like we got todo like teamwork building
skills, like they gave us a pileof crap supplies. And they gave
us the prompt of you're strandedon a desert island use this to
build something to get off ofthe islands so we had to be
(06:49):
like, Oh, well what this worklike and giving each other ideas
that was like a really funactivity.
Jason Varga (06:54):
What do you guys build?
Unknown (06:55):
We built I think the goofiest creation known demand.
We called it officially the SSplote It was a plane boat. It
was a boat that had wings. Itwas so so
Jason Varga (07:05):
interesting. So do you think you'd make it off the
island?
Unknown (07:09):
Yes. Like I think was stocked we had rations in there
and everything. It was so fun.
Jason Varga (07:14):
That's the last thing that I had there. What do
you like to do you know outsideof school
Unknown (07:18):
I love to read it is has been my favorite hobby since
I was like four. If you can'tfind me, I'm most likely either
in my room reading or in aBarnes and Noble buying more
books, even though I have like50 at home that I still need to
read. But that's just where I'vealways liked being because it's
like different worlds. I can goon escape for a little bit. I
(07:41):
also really like music. Big likeTaylor Swift.
Jason Varga (07:46):
And were you I guess so here because you're
here. Have you heard a nod to myother buddy was telling me that
people were camping out likecamping outside for this whole
merch.
Unknown (07:55):
I saw it this morning. Yeah. Whole day. I am going on
Saturday.
Jason Varga (07:58):
Okay, are you got tickets for the show? Yes.
Unknown (08:00):
I got them while I was here. Okay. I was off the
record. I was in class. You gotditching attention, but I got my
ticket.
Jason Varga (08:07):
Those tickets are so hard to get and because of
that, you know,
Unknown (08:10):
it's okay. You're able to get my tickets. It's gonna be
the best night of my life.
Jason Varga (08:14):
Yeah, I mean, I was reading now people were just, I
don't know if it was merch forthe show. Or get into the show.
Or just
Unknown (08:21):
like the day before she starts in a city they bring the
merch struck out and you can buymerch early. And it doesn't
matter if you have tickets ornot. People literally were
lining up. I think I saw onTwitter. The earliest was 330
this morning. Yeah. And like Ilove her. But like, I also love
my sleep. Yeah, I can. Yeah, Iknow. I get I mean, I did my
their dedication. But
Jason Varga (08:41):
I mean, there's some bands that fall around the
country. And I did similarthing. And they dropped these
posters and stuff. But I alwayslet my friends get the posters,
because I don't want theresponsibility of having a
poster through the show andsuch. But I mean, it was the day
before it gives a little bitbetter. I don't know if I would
actually wait out a whole daylike some of these
Unknown (08:55):
Swifties. And it's not even like it opens at like eight
in the morning. It doesn't openuntil noon. Yeah. That's a whole
what, like eight hours.
Jason Varga (09:02):
Yeah, I don't know if they have a job or not. Or
how they literally saw onTwitter. Someone said Do your
work or what? Right? All right.All right. So eventually, you
know, we are going to get toyour speech when you go to do
it. Live in front of everybody.Next week. I'm gonna pull clip
of that it's okay to share witheverybody, right? Because all
right, because we're going to dothat and then I'll have one you
know, you're going to be onYouTube. You're gonna be all
over the place. You're on apodcast command a YouTube
(09:23):
stream, you're gonna beworldwide. Yeah, you are. Like
Taylor Swift. You're you'regetting there. So what? Before I
wrap this up? What would yousay? I'm sure it's probably
worked into your speech to memessage for your fellow
classmates, you know, kind oflike where you were before. He
didn't know you didn't think youcould do it. But
Unknown (09:42):
that was probably one thing that if you think it can
be with anything, minepersonally was just like
breaking out of my shell beingmore outgoing, but if there's
anything that's standing in yourway, and you don't think that
you can get around it, you thinkthere's no way past it. There is
always It's kinda like thatsaying like the if there's a
will, there's a way Sure.Because like, if you don't do it
(10:04):
now, then when are you going tobe able to do it because it's
just going to keep holding youback. And you don't know where
you'll be able to go. If youfinally like, move past it,
because I certainly didn't thinkthat I'd be like, here right
now, like, three years ago whileI was still in high school, but
then I was like, Okay, I'm anadult, I'm a grown up. I can't
(10:27):
do this anymore. I just have todo it. It was terrifying. Like,
it literally made me like, actlike anxious, like, every day
that I was like, Oh, my God, I'mdoing this. But now, it's just
become really just a part of whoI am naturally. And that's
something I also talked about inmy speech, like, I don't have to
force myself to do it anymore.Because I used to have to, but
now it just comes so naturally,to me as a person that I would
(10:50):
really just say just, if there'sanything that you want to do,
but you're terrified to do it,just go for it. And it's gonna
be horrifying. It's gonna bescary. You're gonna want to give
up, but you just have to findlike your niche. You have to
find a big support group. That'sreally what helped me. Also talk
about that. Shout out to myfriends. Love you guys. But you
(11:12):
just have to find a goodbalance. And good people.
Jason Varga (11:17):
Before wrap up. Do you want to shout out? Anybody
else?
Unknown (11:19):
Shout out to my mom. Yeah. Because she has seen like,
the background, both my mom andmy sister have seen like, the
background workings of this,like I would come home and be
like, guys, like, I did thistoday. Are you guys proud of me?
And they're like, Yeah, go forit. And like, they just like
would hear me like talk aboutlike, how I felt like, before I
(11:40):
decided all this, like, theyjust saw me when I was really
like, shy. And I feel like theyalways were trying to like push
me out. And I just never wantedto do it. I was really, really
stubborn. Yeah. But I think Ithink they're proud of me. I at
least hope they're proud of me.I think they are. They are mom
and Bree. If you're listening tothis, please tell me you're
proud of me. It's all
Jason Varga (12:03):
well, we are proud of you again Taylor, Fritz 2023,
President's Award winner herefor rcbc gonna be speaking for
the Health Sciences class. Andof course, second graduating for
the liberal arts side. So I'mgonna see you a couple of times
throughout the next week. Butcoming up, we're gonna we're
gonna we're gonna go on to seeand talk to some other students.
Some of the health sciencesstudents get a little bit their
(12:23):
perspective is kind of goingthrough it and see what they're
all getting, you know, wild andwacky and all that stuff. But we
will also pull a clip of yourawesome speech. I get to hear a
little bit of today. So I'mlooking forward to that. So,
Taylor, again, thanks for comingon the show. Thank
Unknown (12:37):
you for having me.
Jason Varga (12:38):
You're welcome. All right, everyone. Taylor Swift by
the way, I will. Alright, so aspromised, now we're at the
Health Sciences, speaking withother students getting ready to
do their graduation ceremonies,J. Varga on the streets here. So
who do I have with me right now?Kailyn Kailyn. West, and where
are you from? Kailyn.
Unknown (12:52):
Mount Laurel.
Jason Varga (12:53):
So what brought you to rcbc? And obviously, you're
gonna be graduating here withhealth sciences. Oh, what
brought you here? What's yourmajor.
Unknown (12:59):
So my major is nursing. And I came here because they
have a three plus one programwhere you can get your
associates you'll be able tostart working and then you can
go to Rome for a year and getyour Bachelor's
Jason Varga (13:07):
you have a fair professor or class or moments.
Unknown (13:10):
So my favorite classes probably obey for nursing. I
like BB so it was a good classand the professor was MacBooks.
She was really helpful. What'snext for you? So hopefully I'll
get a job and be a licensednurse by the end of the summer.
Okay,
Jason Varga (13:22):
any congratulatory words you'd like to share with
your fellow classmates.
Unknown (13:26):
Congratulations, guys. We did it. It was a struggle,
but we're here now.
Jason Varga (13:31):
All right, so the next victim right down the line,
what's your name?
Unknown (13:34):
Karolina fairy?
Jason Varga (13:35):
Where are you from? Marlton Marlton sorry, you're
Cherokee chief? You're okay. Iwas a renegade, so,
Unknown (13:42):
I don't know. Okay.
Jason Varga (13:45):
So again, your major nursing nursing as well.
Did you have a favoriteexperience here at rcbc? Or what
are you gonna miss most aboutthis place?
Unknown (13:54):
I'm definitely going to miss seeing my friends every day
me and Kaitlyn became like bestfriends to the program. So I'm
going to miss seeing her everyday. Yeah, I think that's my
favorite experience, likemeeting people.
Jason Varga (14:04):
What's your next step?
Unknown (14:05):
I'm going to work for Home Healthcare while I go for
my bachelor's. And then after Iget my bachelor's, I think my
end goal was to maybe do likepediatrics, maybe oncology. So
we'll say okay,
Jason Varga (14:15):
where you get your Bachelor's that Rowan? Okay,
awesome. See now, I was arenegade, but now I was also a
prof too so we can share thatbond. My wife, my wife is a
Cherokee chief. Okay. And youwhat's your name? Tyler Tobin.
Tyler Tobin. Where and where areyou from? Marlton New Jersey.
Okay. Yeah, cuz you were talkingabout the charity when I brought
up the Shawnee Renegades aswell. So and are you a nursing
(14:36):
major as well or? Yeah. And whatwas your experience here? Like?
Unknown (14:41):
It was great. I mean, there was ups and downs.
Obviously it was a hard program.But getting to know such good
people around here. It was justan amazing experience. Overall,
Jason Varga (14:48):
any favorite professor favorite class
moments?
Unknown (14:50):
Favorite moment would probably be my clinical
professor Everett. She taught usa lot and really like stuck us
to everything. She wanted us toknow a lot but it We also heard
from it in the In a bit,
Jason Varga (15:00):
and what would you like to share with your fellow
classmates? Here is everyone'sgetting ready to graduate on
this gorgeous day.
Unknown (15:05):
It's a beautiful day. Let's have fun. Congratulations.
Thanks, guys.
Jason Varga (15:09):
Thanks. Next up, Ben, another health science
graduate. So what's your name?Priscilla. Priscilla? Um, where
are you from
Unknown (15:15):
Bali.
Jason Varga (15:15):
What drew you here to rcbc.
Unknown (15:17):
I was previously in the Burlington County BCC and then
they changed our CBC. And Iwanted to continue my education.
Okay,
Jason Varga (15:27):
so what are you here graduating for today?
Unknown (15:29):
I'm here graduating for Health Information Technician.
Jason Varga (15:32):
So what's going to be the next step for you after
your graduation today?
Unknown (15:35):
Next step is to continue to go to Cooney college
and be getting a bachelor'sdegree.
Jason Varga (15:41):
So how was your experience here at rcbc? Do you
think that prepares you for thenext step?
Unknown (15:44):
Yes, I do think they prepare me for the next step.
It's been an awesome experience.
Jason Varga (15:47):
What was awesome about it? Do you have a favorite
professor maybe a favorite classexperience here somewhere?
Unknown (15:51):
I just like all the classes and how available to do
everything from home not justhaving to come to the college.
Jason Varga (15:58):
And what would you like to say to your fellow
classmates today that are allgraduating?
Unknown (16:02):
Everybody? Congratulations, and can't wait
to see you guys.
Jason Varga (16:07):
Well, congratulations and good luck
with everything. You're wellnext up as we go down the line
here is everyone's so gettingall their other cards and get to
get their names presented forthe health sciences. So who do I
have a waiver now with me?
Unknown (16:18):
My name is Rachel and Rachel and
Jason Varga (16:20):
where are you from?
Unknown (16:21):
I'm from Marlton, New Jersey.
Jason Varga (16:22):
Oh, another Are you a Cherokee chief as well? Oh my
god. We're running into all theAmish Shawnee Renegade, so we're
talking about this. My wife is aCherokee to you. So what drew
you to rcbc
Unknown (16:30):
I was interested in their application to the nursing
program through high school. SoI entered my senior year and as
long as I maintained gradeswhile I was doing my
prerequisites, I was able toenter the nursing program.
Jason Varga (16:44):
So how's the nursing program experience been
for you? It's been
Unknown (16:47):
great. The professor's were so kind and they were
welcoming to the program. Andthey had a lot of experience
with nursing and different areasof nursing. So it was really
incredible to work with all ofthem. What type of
Jason Varga (17:01):
nursing field are you actually looking to get into
Unknown (17:03):
I started nursing with Virtua Voorhees. I am now a
medical surgical nurse. I'mlooking to extend my experience
in the field and possibly moveon into critical care in the
future.
Jason Varga (17:17):
What's the next step and you'll want to have
your bachelor's and such or
Unknown (17:20):
so I'm going to to Rowan University right now I'm
in my second semester. So Ishould be completing my
Bachelor's hopefully inDecember.
Jason Varga (17:29):
Awesome. So what's the one thing you're gonna miss
about this place here at rcbc?
Unknown (17:34):
The close proximity. Now, Rowan is majority majority
of the classes are online. So wereally don't have the
interaction between classmates,as we did here with this
program. Well, speaking
Jason Varga (17:47):
to your classmates, we'd like to give them a little
farewell message or anything fortheir congratulations today.
Unknown (17:51):
Congratulations. And don't stop learning.
Jason Varga (17:53):
Don't stop learning. I love that and
something I tried to stand by aswell as a life long learner. But
as promised, let's check out aclip from rcbc President award
winner Taylor Fritz we had onearlier in this episode and her
commencement speech to theHealth Sciences crowd
Unknown (18:07):
had I not been given that push to let go of my fear
and to stop holding myself back.I would not be where I am right
now. If I could go back and tellmy past self one thing, it would
be that it gets better. When youfinally push down those barriers
and take control of yourjourney, you might just find who
(18:27):
you're supposed to be. And I'mhappy to say that I finally
found my place in this world. AsI conclude my speech, I would
like to leave you all with onepiece of advice. As you move
forward on your journey.Remember this moment in the back
of your mind. This moment whereyou officially put yourself out
into the world. Know that ineach and every single one of
(18:50):
you. There's a fire inside youthat can't help but shine
through. Make the best out ofevery situation that you are
handed. Take the moment andtaste it. Hold on to these
memories and they will hold onto you. Congratulations to the
Rowan College, Burlington Countyclass of 2023. Go forward and
push yourself to be the personthat you aspire to be. And I
(19:13):
can't wait to hear about all ofthe memories you make along your
journey. Thank you.
Jason Varga (19:19):
Bravo Taylor. Bravo. And remember when we were
talking about how much of aTaylor Swift Fan she was earlier
in the show, while she dropped13 Taylor Swift quotes because
while Taylor Swift's favoritenumber 13 So she did 13 of them
throughout the commencementspeech, you can head over to the
rcbc YouTube channel to checkout the entire speech and see if
you can pick them out.Meanwhile, for more information
(19:40):
on RCB C's Health Scienceprogram including nursing,
dental health informationmanagement programs, and more,
you can visit rcbc.edu Staytuned for next month's episode
where the program pod wraps upthe 2023 rcbc commencement
coverage with the stem divisionfor now. Thanks for listening
and let's have rcbc PresidentDr. Michael COC wrap things up
at this year's Well, scientistsgraduation ceremony now
President Cioce (20:02):
I don't see anybody else in need of a
degree. But if you're interestedregistration for Fall is open.
So if you want to take part inthis in two years, go across the
building right behind it.Congratulations to the members
of the Class of 2023. Graduates,you may now move your tassel
from your right to your left.
(20:30):
Before we conclude, I just wantto applaud the faculty and staff
who have worked tirelessly toprepare the next generation of
leaders. A round of applause forall the family and friends in
the audience and those watchingat home who have supported our
graduates every step of theirjourney. Now, if you have an air
(20:51):
horn, here's your last chance.So one final round of applause
to the graduates in the class of2023. Congratulations on your
accomplishment. Thank you, drainthem, drain them can't do
anything with them later. Drainthem. As we conclude today's
ceremony, I asked that ourguests remain standing at your
(21:12):
seats while the platform gueststo exit and lead the faculty
staff and graduates out of thequad. Congratulations class of
2023
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