Nick Mucha
When Nick Mucha, of Valparaiso, returned to class for the fall 2008 semester, he had his eyes set on his goal of earning his Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership & Supervision (OLS).
Mucha qualified for his associate degree in May 2008, but he is ready to earn his bachelor’s degree, and then continue to graduate school. Earning that associate degree was particularly meaningful to Mucha and his family as he became the first person in his family to graduate from college.
“I know that my education will open the doors of opportunity for me,” he said.
Mucha is happy that he made the decision to attend PNC, explaining that it suits what he was looking for in a university.
“It is very accessible, it’s inviting. I can complete my plan of study here and it seems that everyone is helpful, accommodating, caring, patient and friendly because they want to see us succeed,” he said. “Purdue is recognized world-wide.“
Mucha certainly found success on campus. He consistently earned a place on the semester academic honors lists by maintaining a high grade point average. He also took second place in the Hyde Park Forum public speaking contest and got involved with Student Support Services. In fact, he earned the Student Support Services Pillar of Leadership Award, and the Student Support Services Mentoring Certificate.
And he found that he still had the time and energy to be an active member of several clubs and organizations on campus, too.
“I belong to Campus Ministries, Delta Sigma Science Club, TRIO Service Club, the Fine Arts, Convocations and Events Committee and Student Government Association,” he listed. “And I worked in the PNC Office of Continuing Education.”
And on top of that, he gives his “spare time” to a number of community groups and organizations. He can quickly list some of the major activities in his life, “I volunteer at Youth For Christ in Portage for Campus Life “M” (Middle School), I attend Family Bible Church in Portage where I’m deeply involved in many, many activities. I am a volunteer at Izaak Walton League of America Youth Summer Camp. I consider myself to be a Godly servant for God and his people.”
How did he manage to attend school full time, earn excellent grades and still volunteer his time to so many organizations – and not feel stretched or pulled too thin?
Mucha said that he relied on “God’s strength and the ability to maintain a positive attitude.”
He added, ”I always try my best and I am sure to ask for help when I need it. It really helps that I prioritize my responsibilities. For the most part, I am able to balance things out because of my organizational skills.
“Overall, everyone supported me and realized the importance of putting school first. My family and friends encouraged me to always try my best. My Mom is one of my biggest supporters. She encouraged me to keep going further. She wants the best for me and sees the potential in me and all that I’ve accomplished so far.”
“I really do enjoy working with my peers and learning from my instructors. Being involved and helping people is a very rewarding experience. “
Mucha has enjoyed his experience at PNC. “I would recommend PNC to anyone. The classes are small, but there are so many opportunities and possibilities.”
What are his plans for the future? “I will earn by bachelor’s degree, definitely. And I will continue to be deeply involved with activities that will help me to grow. Right now, I am happy to explore all of my options and possibilities.”
