Meet Tour Guides in Health Sciences and Human Performance Majors

Maddie Kramer, Ithaca College Clinical Health Studies and Physical Therapy major

Maddie Kramer
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Major: Clinical Health Studies/Physical Therapy
Minors: Communication Disorders; Health Policy & Management
Clubs: IC Unbound Dance Company (president, dancer, choreographer, chair of performance); IC Physical Therapy Student Association; IC Physical Therapy Wellness Club

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I was looking for a school that fit 3 criteria: Far enough from home that my mom couldn’t randomly show up but I could still drive, an accelerated 3+3 DPT program, and a good balance of science/clinical experience/research with dance/arts/theater. All three of my boxes have been checked off here!
Advice
Embrace the newness of everything!! Keep seeking out experiences that go way beyond your comfort zone. Ithaca has so much opportunity for adventure if you seek it out!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at mkramer@ithaca.edu.

Olivia Davir, Ithaca College Health Studies major

Olivia Davir
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Major: Health Studies
Clubs: Pre-Physician Assistant Club (vice president), Teaching Assistant (Biology), Tutoring Services (Biology), First-Gen Residential Learning Community, Circus Culture

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I chose IC because it gives me balance. The Ithaca Commons and the natural beauty of Ithaca allow me to experience all the outdoorsy fun with still an urban city element. I also have the opportunity to pursue my passions in science and the arts. And I stayed because all of my lovely friends, professors, and coworkers exhibit the balance I find in all aspects here.
Advice
Get on the Stairmaster! The hills are no joke, train while you can!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at odavir@ithaca.edu.

Leah Mintz, Ithaca College Speech and Language Pathology major

Leah Mintz
Hometown: Westborough, Massachusetts
Major: Speech-Language Pathology
Minor: Spanish
Clubs: IC NSSLHA (National Student Speech Language & Hearing Association) (webmaster), IC Planned Parenthood Generation Action, IC Hillel

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I chose IC for many reasons, one of which was the strong academics within my department. I was excited to learn that there was a Speech and Hearing Clinic right here on campus that I would be able to get hands-on experience in during my time as an undergraduate student. The Ithaca community, from the gorges to the Commons, felt like a perfect place to go to college. I also felt that the size was perfect for me. And now as a student here, I truly feel seen by the faculty and never feel like just a number here.
Advice
Ask questions! Use your resources! Talk to current students and faculty Statistics are one thing, but personal connections will be most important in making an informed college decision. Also, take care of yourself throughout the process. It can be stressful and difficult, but you are more than capable of getting through it!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at lmintz@ithaca.edu.

Bella Ferranti, Ithaca College Occupational Therapy major

Bella Ferranti
Hometown: Stoneham, Massachusetts
Major: Occupational Therapy
Minor: Dance
Clubs: Ithaca College Student Occupational Therapy Association (ICSOTA); IC Unbound Dance Company; iSign; Red Cross; Pinky Swear

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I chose Ithaca College for not only my major but the fact that I can be someone outside of my major. I have so many diverse areas of interest outside of my major, and I am able to explore those through clubs or other means.
Advice
Our small campus and small class sizes are one of my favorite things. I never feel like a number in my classes. My professors know me by name and are very approachable. The campus size allows me to see faces I recognize while also seeing new ones all the time. I also love Ithaca because I never feel bored. There is always something to do whether it be on campus or off campus on the Ithaca Commons.

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at bferranti@ithaca.edu.

Maddie Etman, Ithaca College Speech and Language Pathology major

Maddie Etman
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland
Major: Speech-Language Pathology
Minor: Deaf Studies
Clubs: Premium Blend, Planned Parenthood Generation Action, Orientation Leader

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I chose IC because of the beautiful area and vibrant community!
Advice
Get involved!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at metman@ithaca.edu.

Talia Fontanilla, Ithaca College physical therapy major

Talia Fontanilla
Hometown: Nyack, New York
Major: Physical Therapy
Clubs: IC Tone Cold A Cappella (president), Leadership Scholar Program, IC PT Pelvic Health Club

Why I Chose Ithaca College
I was looking for a physical therapy program and Ithaca's was my favorite. Also the energy around campus was so great, and every student I talked to seemed really involved in multiple clubs and organizations.
Advice 
Definitely make the effort to get involved in a student organization or service project! It’s a great opportunity to get involved in the community and make Ithaca your home. Also go to all the festivals on the Ithaca Commons—they’re really fun!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at tfontanilla@ithaca.edu.

Sophia Watterson, Ithaca College Public and Community Health major

Sophia Watterson
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Major: Public and Community Health
Clubs: IC Figure Skating Club (vice president); Pre-Health Professions Ambassador; Planned Parenthood Generation Action Club; Tri-Alpha Honor Society Member

Internship

I worked as a Student Health Emergency Liaison Intern for the Ithaca College Public Health and Safety Department. I worked in the Covid testing building managing testing and isolation for students. It was a valuable opportunity that allowed me to get hands-on experience on campus during my first year.

Why I Chose Ithaca College

I chose IC because of the opportunities that would be provided to set me up for a successful future. The professors are dedicated to their job and give us so many valuable resources and experiences as students. I could tell that IC fostered a community full of passionate, kind, intelligent leaders. and I wanted to be a part of something that looks beyond a college campus and propels us into the world.

Advice

Choosing a college is overwhelming and a big decision. Take your time and explore all your options and ultimately decide based on what is best for YOU. There are so many resources available to help guide you in your decision, we are here to help!

Let’s Connect!

Email me anytime at swatterson@ithaca.edu.