Commencement Spotlight: Jacob Howard

Jacob Howard chose OHIO Lancaster for its affordability and proximity to home. He will be graduating summa cum laude this spring with a bachelor of science in communication studies. 

What are your next steps or plans for the future?
Upon graduation, I will be joining Local Union 189 which is the plumber & pipefitters union for Columbus. In the future, I would love to become a high school athletic director for Canal Winchester or a school in the area.

What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO Lancaster - that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this”?
My "ah-ha" moment at OHIO Lancaster was when I was sitting in one of my sophomore COMS classes realizing that I was almost halfway finished. I knew in two years I would be graduating and that’s when I thought to myself, "I’ve got this.”

Why did you choose OHIO Lancaster?
I chose OHIO Lancaster because it was close to home, cheaper than any main campus, and I enjoyed smaller classes where I could ask questions and build relationships with my professors. In addition, they offered sports and my desire was to continue playing basketball. Unfortunately, COVID cut things short and I was only able to play for one additional year.   

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?
My favorite professors/staff included Dr. Blau, Jeff Whitehead, and Professor Zarzar. Dr. Blau was the first professor I talked to when I became a COMS major. Whenever I had a question, she would schedule a meeting or email me back no matter when it was. Dr. Blau was extremely helpful to me, especially the past couple of semesters. She helped me schedule my classes so that I would graduate on time. Jeff was a very important person to me. In my opinion, he is a "jack of all trades" on the campus. He was the athletic director, basketball coach, and just about everything in between. In my freshman year, Jeff helped me schedule classes, contact professors when I needed help, and introduced me to some great people. Finally, Professor Zarzar was always happy. I never once saw her without a smile. Professor Zarzar's smile became contagious. I was always excited to go to her class to learn. She was always such an encouragement and a sweetheart who put a smile on my face.  

What are your favorite OHIO Lancaster memories?
My favorite memory was bowling night my freshman year. Bowling night was so much fun and everyone there had a great time. In addition, I met so many new people and friends that I still hang out with. My freshman year I played basketball. That season was a great experience that I would not trade for anything. I met many new friends, and we had a great season together.

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO Lancaster student not to miss?
I would tell them not miss the Fall Fest bowling night. That night was filled with laughter and fun. Bowling night was free and everyone was there together just having a great time.