ESU Graduates First Cohort of Exercise Science Students in Accelerated Program

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Posted by: admin on May 3, 2016, No Comments

In 2013, East Stroudsburg University’s exercise science department launched an accelerated program, which allowed students to earn their bachelor’s degrees in three years. In the spring of 2016, the department is graduating its first cohort from the program.

“We are so proud of these students and all they have accomplished,” Shala Davis, Ph.D., professor and chair of exercise science, said. “We tell our prospective accelerated students to take advantage of every opportunity to garner experience and gain a competitive edge in the professional market, and these students did that.”

Isaac Barbolish enrolled in the accelerated program because she wanted to spend more time outside of school and in the field. She knew the program would be the perfect fit.

“Many events and opportunities were opened to us by the faculty that other students would not normally have access to that early in their college years, if at all,” she said. “I saw this as an opportunity that could benefit me and advance my career.”

Like Barbolish, Ethan Lare wanted a program that allowed him to go to school for a shorter time and gain the same opportunities.

“The support from the cohort and the faculty in the program really motivated me every step of the way,” he said. “The program is really meant to prepare you for graduate school or for your career.”

Rob Hoffman, who is headed to graduate school next year at the University of Tampa, feels the program is what really helped him get accepted for admission.

“The accelerated program provides you with every skill you need to be prepared for graduate school,” he said. “If I was not in this program, I don’t think I would be ready.”

In the program, students are expected to “hit the ground running on day one,” according to Dr. Davis.

The program allows students to attend professional conferences, network and work on their leadership skills.

“The students in this program are truly exceptional,” Dr. Davis said. “We want to do everything we can to help them succeed in their future.”

For more information on the accelerated exercise science bachelor’s degree program contact Dr. Davis at 570-422-3336, or sdavis@esu.edu.