Cut from a Different Angle: Inside the Dragonfly Salon

Cut from a Different Angle: Inside The Dragonfly Salon

Behind the Purple Door

 Before you reach the door, you already see it- a giant dragonfly stretched across the outside wall, its wings golden and delicate, frozen in time with a matching pair of gilded scissors. The sunlight catches amongst the iradecent sparkles, acting as a unique one-of-a-kind billboard indicating that you have arrived at your destination. Sharp at noon, but glowing and shadowed by evening- luminous, almost alluring- effortlessly pulling you in.  Open the jewel-toned purple door, and the sounds of the outside world melt away. In their place, a soft, low current of white noise fills your ears, soft and constant, like waves on the shoreline. The walls are drenched in a playful shade of lavender, joyful and relaxing all at the same time. The sound instantly melts into the room, creating a layer of privacy, as if every conversation is locked safely within those purple walls. Light bounces off the spotless wall-to-wall mirrors; you cannot escape your own reflection.

 "Hello! Welcome, come on in!" 

The voice is eager yet steady. Donna appears from behind a rich lavender door, her presence pulling you in. Her long golden hair flows smoothly, catching the light with each movement. Her smile is contagious, immediate but not a performance, an authentic representation of who she is. Her eyes are soft and kind, observant and attentive, she is stylish yet professional in a matte black apron.

The air carries a layered aroma- sharp bleach with a hint of sweet perfume. Clean, chemical, but floral nonetheless. It is the recognizable scent. The floor sparkles, the counters wiped clean. Tools are lined with intention- brushes staked neatly, scissors lined up ready to perform, color bowls nested amongst one another. The salon is spotless to the naked eye, but if you look more closely, you may find a stray curled hair intertwined with a chair leg, providing a history. Even in stillness, the room is still active. The station prepped for the client, scissors open and close with intention. Foils flash your eyes beneath the light, folding into place. A brush gliding through sections of tangled hair, leaving in its path a wave of silk. Nothing here is accidental. The dragonfly outside offers a compelling symbol of transformation; however, inside, the promise is kept. 

While the carefully curated decorations and sweet lavender walls suggest a good eye, the foundation of the Dragonfly Salon is not aesthetic; it's an experience. No other stylists are transforming across the room. No overlapping appointments or clients competing for attention. This salon operates differently. One stylist. One client. One conversation at a time. Near the back sits a window of all different types of concoctions of shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers for any type of hair.  The hairwashing station- a reclined bed with a deep porcelain basin. Paired with bright pink towels and warm, silky water spilling in a high-pressure stream, circling down the drain, this is the peak of serenity. 

The Sorcerer 

Donna has worked as a cosmetologist for twenty-six years. What appears to be natural talent in effortless movement is the product of repetition, refinement, and long-term experience. She does not second-guess the angle of her scissors or the measurements of the sectioned hair. Years of practice have removed uncertainty, and in its place, muscle memory has taken shape. 

"I wanted control over not only my environment but my life," Donna claims. "Not just the schedule- the atmosphere. My salon experience goes beyond just a haircut or color. I strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where clients feel comfortable, secure, and absolutely radiant. I genuinely care about each and every one of my clients. I am dedicated to understanding specific vision, needs, and expectations."

That trust isn't just intangible: it is measurable. 

One client, with hair like the midnight sky, jet black, but if you look closer, tiny white stars are emerging from the root. She, who has been attached to Donna for over ten years, followed salons alongside her and describes the loyalty and passion without hesitation. 

"It isnt just about a hairstyle," she explains. "I come here to lift my spirits, clear my head, and feel confident in my skin."

A Decade of Trust 

    The chair is placed in the center of the room like a throne, black leather creaking softly as the long-term client settles into the familiar embrace of the styling chair. A black mane spills out of her scrunchie, as Donna's fingers sift through the hair with grace, detangling fairy knots as if decoding an ancient language written strand by strand. Every section is completely saturated with pigment, starting with the pearlescent contrast and working towards the ends for an even, vibrant color.

"So how is your daughter's spring semester going?" Donna sincerely asked, bending slightly into the hairwashing basin- finding the perfect temperature to begin the cleanse. 

"Shes doing fine, you know she doesn't really like her school, so shes been looking at places to transfer for next year," the client sighs, "I don't know where she is going to go, but I hope she stays close to home."

Donna sighs; she understands all to well. She begins to section the stygian hair, her voice sharp between each snip, precise yet gentle. "You can only control what you can control," she continued," How much would you like off this time?" 

"She listens without judging, not adding comments," the client adds."Sometimes it feels like therapy- but I always leave with the results I came for."

That statement is delivered casually, yet it delivers a significant message. This salon functions more than a cosmetic service; it operates as a beacon of stability- a recurring space where life's transitions are mentally processed alongside physical transformation. 

"People have always felt compelled to open up to me; this is amplified when they're sitting still for hours on end," she explains. "I believe you're not just providing a service; you have the opportunity to completely alter someone's appearance. There has to be a lot of trust in that."

Her perspective is honest, but it also provides an explanation for the deliberate atmosphere. The pruifying white noise, the one-chair structure, the privacy- none of it is accidental. It creates a sense of safety, a place where intimate conversations are irresistible. In a profession often soley associate with aesthetics, Donna's approach cuts from a different angle; In a service where clients are vulnerable, she has created a place where clients feel heard, respected, and significant. 

A second client- twenty-some years old, currently navigating college life and the trials of young adulthood- is living a different cycle of adulthood, yet still sits in the same chair. Her standing appointments are booked every 4 months for highlight touch-ups and every two months for extension replacements, but she admits the visits are rarely around aesthetic alone. 

"I come in for highlights," she smirks and looks over her shoulder, " but somehow we always end up talking about my relationships for the entire appointment."

Unlike the decade-long faithful patron whose conversations are highlighted on parenting and lifes simpliest grievences, this vibrant younger client leans on the salon as a place to spill uncertainty in dating, identity, university struggles, and independence. 

"Donna is very compassionate, yet direct, she doesn't just tell me what I want to hear," the client explains familiarly, "She asks questions, she gives me different perspectives and personal experience, she really makes me think."

This phrase is notable; Donna's communication is not a rehearsed play, but authentic perspectives from her heart. Her responses are shaped, measured, and trimmed of the fluff. Her insightful advice is not bluntly delievered it is refreshing and softened where necessary. Her guidance appears layered rather than abrasive and choppy.

Color and Vibrance

The younger client rushes through the doors like a tornado. She has a lot to cover; not only are her extensions overgrown and her roots shadowed, but she just broke up with her boyfriend. Donna begins sectioning her contrasting hair, foils glimmer like thin silver under the mirror lights, each reflection layering a dizzying illusion. 

"So, are you still talking to him?" Donna asks without judgment, fingertips navigating the emotional and physical medium. Complicated can be managed, everyone goes through a rough patch," Donna says, fixing a stray that has escaped the bleach, "but you have to decided whats worth keeping and what is taking from you." She had finished the foils and set the timer, each tick sharp, harsh, and measured- counting down not only the time, but eerily showcasing the clock is ticking. 

Donna confirms the gap of generational differences without overstating them. She acknowledges the difference in trends and styles, but also the variations in needs.

"Different ages bring in different conversations," she insisted. "But I have the ability to fit in most places. I connect to people of all ages and backgrounds. I have children who are young adults, so not only do I have a perspective relating to parents, but insight into the teenage mind. The age does not affect my process; it's still about listening first."

The younger client describes the environment as purifying and relaxing. 

"It doesn't feel rushed," she calmly stated, "It's not like other salons where you feel like you're on a meter."

 That review reinforces that salon's foundation. With no overlapping appointments competing for space, no additional stylists rotating through stations, and no excessive voices, each visit unfolds intentionally. Time stretches longer, conversations are not interrupted mid-sentence, and emotional vents are not trimmed short. Over twenty-six years, Donna has built more than just a clientele; she has cultivated a professional family. Sharing intimate insight into their daily lives from relationships to accomplishments, clients do not simply rebook- they remain. 

In a profession shaped by trends that often fade as quickly as they appear, Donna's technique is rooted more deeply than superficial properties. Styles evolve, society changes, yet the foundation- privacy, continuity, and most of all trust- remains consistent.

Where Hair and Life Interwine

The Dragonfly Salon is more than a place where hair is more than just cut and colored. Every tool, every service, and every experience is deliberately intended to ensure a comfortable, supportive, and positive environment encouraging transformation. The lavender walls, intuitive decorations, the steady hum of white noise, and the endless reflection- combined ensure an energetically rich environment.  

Donna herself embodied the salon's philosophy. Years of experience are apparent with her swift muscle memory movements, her technique for getting the "best teasylight," or simply the faint R5 dye stained on her fingertips. Her passion and expertise with meeting each indivual clients need sets this salon apart from the rest. This midnight sun operates as a personal escape, giving the best chance for transformation to occur. The significance of this environment becomes clear: a long-term client, whose throne has heard constant tales of years of parenting and personal growth. Listening to hours of deep perspectives and powerful victories. Similarly, with a younger client repeative standing appointments showcase how versatile this oasis is. Advice is braided seamlessly into every layered haircut and every strand of highlight. Hair and life exist in parallel, simultaneously, and codependently through communication and technique. 

The salon is precise, and Donna's dialogue is intentional. Her clients are able to come to her to discuss hard topics about relationships, identity, or self-improvement, so this enables them to easily and confidently communicate their expectations for the outcome of their service. In the Dragonfly Salon, cosmetology is not simply the superficial aesthetic of hair, but a place where clients are able to thrive through advice, relationships, and personal transformation. 

Far from being the underdog

 

Far from being the underdog

Warm lights, the clinking of glasses, freshly brewed beer and the friendliest pizza chef giving you a warm hello- Marley's brewery and Grille is so much more than just any other restaurant on the Bloomsburg strip. Just because their logo displays a puppy doesn't make their company the underdog, Marley's establishment is bubbling with customers from Tuesday to Sunday each week. Marleys restaurant brings a home-like vibe to every guest with its gold studded ceiling, dim lighting, and cozy booths to sit in.  Upon entering the front gold embellished double doors, you are immediately met with a wooded island, the host stand. Greeted by a hostess, you are then seated in a swift, timely manner. As you're being walked to your table you can catch view of the dog bone shaped welcome signs hanging from the ceiling, supported by sleek black chains. The interior of the building is shaped like a slice of paper, with tan painted walls and fancy varnished wood accents that are built into every wall. For a rustic touch, Marleys very own "Growler" large beer bottles are fixed with a short metal pole to each wooden section of the walls. In the very middle of the restaurant is a large gray countertop with a fiery brick pizza oven crackling shortly behind it. Many slabs of thick yet soft deep dish pizza crust lay. And behind this countertop you'll meet the friendliest pizza chef in town, Tony.

 Tony stands about 4'9 with a thick black mustache, dark fluffy hair, big round cheekbones and a kind and welcoming Hispanic accent. On one the stone walls behind the grey counter a drawing hangs. It reads, "Tony, best pizza ever!" In a colorful and wonky children's font. "This is why I do what I do." tony exclaims as he admires the child's drawing. Tony resumes his pizza production and spreads large circular slabs of dough on a paddle, adding dollops of sauce, cheese and an assortment of veggies. He then swiftly slides the paddle into the brick oven. "Its like you could do this blindfolded!" a server says as she passes by. Tony just let out a warm chuckle and continued cooking. Tony's pizza became an existential factor of Marley's when they moved from their first location to the second, ranking #1 in pizza spots for Bloomsburg.  

Behind all the excellent service, weekly specials, and incredible food is an amazing woman; Yvonne Lutz. Being a supervisor at Marleys for several years, she has always assured the atmosphere, team, and of course the food at the restaurant is the best it can be. Working day and night in the kitchen, bar, and host stand assisting her employees during big rushes is what make her the perfect fit for her job. The restaurant business can be hard at times- when asked what she likes most about her job she replied " I oddly enjoy the rush of it all, seeing everyone come together and work hard when its super busy." The unity of Marley's brewery and grille is what makes it so special.

Profile Blog - Zachary Ruth

The Light in a Dark Tunnel

(The auditorium after class)

    For anyone seriously interested in Exercise Science at Bloomsburg University, the name Luke Haile should be familiar to you. Dr. Haile's dedication to learning and teaching makes him one of the best professors in Bloomsburg. He began his journey in Exercise Science at Columbia High School. He took an Anatomy and Physiology class his senior year, which at the time was very rare. His teacher cultivated a strong curiosity in him, even allowing him to work on college level research with him and helping him present their findings at a conference, only furthering his interest in Exercise Science. He then came to play soccer for Bloomsburg and got both his Bachelor’s and Masters degrees in Exercise Science, before getting his Ph.D in Pittsburgh University. He taught in Virginia for two years, then moved to Lock Haven to teach for five years, then came back to Bloomsburg where’s he has been teaching both undergraduate and graduate physiology classes for the past 8 years. Throughout his career he has done quite a bit of research and academic work, primarily in the effects of increased performance on our perception, which displays his interest in improving the lives of others. As of now he has been compiling research and data everyday for the past half decade on how performance affects our lives, with the hopes that he can distill it down into a book. Every professor has three aspects of their job; teaching, academics, and service, which Dr. Haile has proven himself as a strong participant in each. 

   Dr. Haile’s passion and desire for connection shine through his being and his style of teaching. His footsteps thunder through the hall before he opens the door and happily greets the class. When he boots up his presentation and displays it on the screen, he takes a remote, tests it, and steps down off the stage and joins his students in the aisles, and people slowly start migrating their attention towards him. His appearance adds to his ability to take control of the room, with a tall athletic

(Dr. Haile's Faculty Profile Photo)

build and light auburn hair cut short and neat, he looks like a professional athlete, which only adds credibility to what he teaches. His talking style sounds almost like a one-sided conversation, full of somewhat related tangents, but uses metaphor and simile to create a better understanding of his topics and to connect with his students. When explaining how learning pathways benefit from BDNF, he said: “When that pathway has been- you know, is now a well paved highway, as opposed to a crappy back road that says no winter maintenance, right?”, making it obvious that he is not afraid to curse, and uses humor to try to better connect with his audience. As he paces up, down and across the aisles, his head and eyes are fixated on the floor until he stops and looks up at all the people around him, all the while making heavy use of gesticulation to emphasize every word he speaks. He speaks often in rhetorical questions which sometimes works against him whenever he asks a real question to the class and is met with silence and dull expressions. His confident posture and somewhat laid-back demeanor make him very approachable, and his voice is kind and clear, making it hard for people to not understand anything he says. When he teaches his passion and curiosity take the lime-light. Dr. Haile admits: "I constantly want to be learning myself and I'm always learning something on my own, and a lot of times its related to what I teach, it's not always related to what I teach... I think when I'm able to harness that and boil some of my new knowledge down into the essence of what the student can understand and apply to what they want to do, then it is a gift." Dr. Haile's boundless curiosity and passion for teaching and sharing that knowledge while connecting with his students makes him a very strong educator.


   Those who have taken Dr. Hailes intro class notice pretty quickly that he uses a unique style of inviting dozens of professional speakers every chance he gets, sometimes even two in a day. He recounts from his college experience: "When I came in it was, I don't know, it was very prescribed, and even then, I didn't learn a lot about what else there was to do... Even when I was a professor, I really had no idea what occupational therapy was, I didn't know how you became a chiropractor, even going through getting a Ph.D. and teaching in a program (I) still really knew nothing about these things, nor did I know about all these other areas that you could get into with Exercise Science. With the intro class, my goal is to make sure that every student in that class knows of every possibility that you can get to from this academic path... how do you know where you're going if you don't even know it exists?" He built his class off of his experiences in hopes that he can guide people to a path they can thrive in and enjoy. His vast network of professional speakers consists of alumni, friends, past associates, and representatives of programs the school has ties to, all from his innate ability to connect with people. His intro class is a culmination of his strengths and experience to help give people the best start they can in the field of Exercise Science.


   In a world where people often disappoint us and everything seems a little bleaker, Dr. Haile should give us hope. He works to provide as best he can for his students, he works on his experiments, researches and writes with other Exercise Scientists to increase our understanding of the body and still finds time to read new things everyday about how exercise can improve our lives. He's even working on his own book on top of all that, a true feat of passion. His dedication to learning and improving the lives of others makes him one of the great educators of our time, and what makes him special demonstrates that there are still great people in the world who care about helping others with all their being.

Beyond The Pool (final) Max McCloskey

 

    Beyond The Pool- Max McCloskey

    Most people see a swim coach standing at the edge of the pool with a stopwatch, calling out times and corrections. But to swimmers in the water, a coach is much more than that.

  Coach Bridget hasn't had much experience at the head coach position, but she's been around the Bloomsburg for a while. She started as a collegiate swimmer at Bloomsburg, she decided to become an assistant coach, and the now the head coach at Bloomsburg University. 

  Coach Bridget is much different compared to other swim coaches. She cares so much about her swimmers in and out of the pool. At swim meets you can find her running up and down the pool deck with a stopwatch and a clipboard. She wears her Bloomsburg swim gear, as well as her wet white sneakers, screaming and losing her voice while she cheers on her swimmers. No matter what the results are, she is proud of the effort her swimmers put into the water day in, and day out.

   Bridget shows her appreciation to her swimmers by gifting them charms before and after every swim meet. She says, "one of my favorite traditions I do as a coach is give charms out to my swimmers. These charms represent the teams we have faced and the challenges we have faced. Reminding us of the hard work and unity it took to get through each meet." Each charm becomes a small reminder of teams’ progress, carrying the story of every meet the team has pushed through together.

  Inside the pool swimmers see her as a leader and role model, someone who pushes them through exhausting sets, corrects their technique, and demands their best effort at every single practice.  They may hear tough feedback or feel pressure to push outside their comfort zone in practice, but they understand it comes from a place of belief in their potential. Outside the pool, swimmers see Coach Bridget as a kind of mother figure. She will ask her fellow swimmers about how school is going for them and making sure her athletes are doing ok mentally and emotionally. 

  Coach Bridget’s influence reaches far beyond the lanes of the pool. In a sport built on discipline, time management, and responsibility, she reminds her swimmers that they are more than their times on a clock. They are a team, family, and a great group of individuals in which she believes in them with complete confidence. 

 

Profile blog (final) - Morgan Traver

Bullseye! the Target Effect

Whether it’s the elegant glow of the symbol plastered around the store, the Starbucks inside, or the red chic and on trend style of the store; Target attracts people in from anywhere and everywhere. The smell of espresso from the cafe fills the entrance of the store, drawing you in to grab a steamy latte or a bite to eat while you shop. Targets shopping carts are known for having 2 cup holders, one on each corner of the cart, specifically for this reason. The sales offered from Target range from beauty products, clothing, home decor, toys, food, and more. This allows a sense of flexibility for the shopper, no matter what you’re looking for, Target will have it. 

“Mom look! It’s the comic book I told you about!” A young boy exclaims running into the book section of the store. 

“Oh wow! Now that’s pretty cool. Go ahead and put it in the cart.” His mom replies. The kid beamed at the realization of being allowed to get the book. Their cart was full of a bluish, marble patterned plate and bowl set, candles, teakwood brown placemats for their dining room table, some food, and now a colorful comic book. The kid skipped with excitement alongside his mom ready to read.

While shopping at Target is a thrill, working there is an experience in itself. 

Gabby, a Target employee stated: “A moment that stood out to me while working at Target would honestly be how many adults act very disrespectful to people working in retail.” She has seen ripped off tags of clothing in dressing rooms, people scream at her because the dressing rooms were closed, and more. Gabby has worked at all times of the day, but she enjoys night shifts the most because of less people coming into shop. She’s been working at Target for 3 years and with her friend Maddie for 2 years.

“My favorite part about working at Target is that I get to work with my friend Maddie. Working with a friend makes the time go by faster, and sometimes it feels like you’re not even at work.” So, while there are some downfalls at Target, like rude customers, Gabby still finds ways to enjoy herself while working there. She finds that most people leaving Target are satisfied with their purchase and the customer service provided.

For young college kids, Target would be the place to work. 

“I would 100% recommend a college student working here. They are lenient as they know you are a student…” Gabby says excitedly. “…You can tell them when you can work, and if you are scheduled and something comes up, they are very helpful at trying to find you someone to take your shift.” This would be useful for students because of having such hectic schedules and needing last-minute changes. So, not only is Target a delight to shop at but their management makes the job fun, flexible, and reliable, leaving their employees happy to work for them. Target strives to give customers the experience they deserve, and it starts with hiring the right employees.

Target as a whole, has become more than just a place to shop. Its affordable prices, style, and clean layout create a sense of excitement and comfort for the shopper as soon as they step foot in the entrance. Despite the mean customers, the employees are still happy to work for them because of their flexibility and understanding. Targets impact on the customers goes far beyond a grocery store, allowing the customer to come back, grab a coffee, and find the value in the smaller things they insist on bringing back home. 

Special Delivery: Inside Scoop on the Husky Mail Hub

        During the quiet minutes before classes change, the Husky Mail Hub sits in anticipation of the incoming students on a mission to retrieve their packages. The open floor plan stretches across the room, the only obstacle, three locker banks standing on the right. Packages lacking vital information wait to be claimed behind the front desk, joined by a cardboard cutout of Abraham Lincoln, who is counting down the days until spring break. Brian Sweetra and Scott Schaffer can be heard behind the front desk, laughter erupting from the student workers, emitting a lively presence in the seemingly dull room.

    The friendly faces that supervise the mail hub are none other than Brian Sweetra and Scott Schaffer. Brian, a tall, older man with a grey comb-over, has been employed at the mail hub for thirty years. “I was looking for an opportunity to advance here at the university,” Brian explains. Scott, a man of average height, is usually found sporting a cap and occasionally, glasses. After floating around many jobs on campus for many years, Scott grew dissatisfied with his schedule, which only offered weekends or nights. Three years ago, the Husky Mail Hub became much more appealing to Scott, since the hours consisted of a Monday through Friday, consistent schedule. Together, Brian and Scott keep the Husky Mail Hub running efficiently.

    A typical day in the mail hub keeps Scott busy. His day consists of pulling, labeling, and alphabetizing forgotten packages from the lockers to make room for the new, incoming packages. He sorts the letter mail for their 1-week pickup window, and filters out faculty and staff packages. Scott accompanies Brian in delivering faculty and staff packages, then picks up student packages from USPS. In the middle of all this chaos, Brian and Scott spare time to help students, even if that kindness might not go both ways. The pair assist students in locating their packages, typically discovering improperly addressed packages, lacking important information. Despite hundreds of packages arriving at the mail hub during the week, negative interactions have become few and far between. “I feel like years ago it was more common to deal with people who were very short or rude. That’s kind of dissipated over the years, so I don't see much of it anymore,” Brian notes, “However, there was one young lady who accused me of stealing her hair extensions, and she was pretty rude in her interrogation of me.”

    "When we installed the locker system back in 2017, accountability went really high," Scott observed, agreeing with Brian's comment. Even though student accountability had increased, rude interactions were not erased altogether. In the mail hub, students are given two days to pick up their packages. After the allotted time, Scott pulls them from the lockers. Students then have one week to pick their expired package up at the front desk. Once that week passes, Scott gives the student one last chance. He calls them, letting them know that their package may soon return to the sender. “One time, a student forgot to pick up their package. I gave the student a phone call, and in one instance, the student called right back, saying how rude the message I gave them was,” Scott reminisces. While few students of Bloomsburg lack appreciation towards Brian and Scott's devotion to solving their mail-related issues, most students feel grateful for their time.

    Working in the mail hub may seem boring at a glance, but Brian tries to make the job more entertaining. He creates small challenges and competitions for the student staff to participate in. Last semester, the competition was a race around the locker banks, not on foot, but on rolling chairs. While most students were in class, Brian, Scott, and the student workers of the mail hub timed how fast they could lap around the lockers, speeding towards the finish line, also known as the front desk. “We all try to have a good time together,” Brian quips, “we tease each other in good faith and good humor.” Some other challenges Brian invented range from guessing tic-tac flavors to how many steps an employee would take on her twenty-two-mile walk. The staff of the Husky Mail Hub all enjoy the small break from their busy schedules, participating in these fun contests.

    Some students visiting the mail hub tend to jump the gun, attempting to pick up their packages before they're available. Brian and Scott offer some simple advice: patience. Brian encourages students to hold off on approaching the front desk until they've gotten an email or text notification. "If that is not coming in at a reasonable time, then reach out to me, and I'll help you however I can," Brian advises. Scott agrees, assuring that the Husky Mail Hub runs very efficiently. While unknown to some students, the mail room remains open after hours. Scanning their student ID outside, students are granted access to the locker banks during all hours of the day. In a place where hundreds of packages cycle through each week, a little patience goes a long way.

Twenty-Five Laps

                           

                                                                 

    The starter’s pistol cracks through the Gerhard Fieldhouse without warning, sharp enough to make anyone flinch if they aren’t paying attention. The navy-blue track at Bucknell shines under bright fluorescent lights, its orange accent is almost electric against the bland steel building with industrial white walls and ceilings. Bundled up parents in winter coats lean over the railing with phones raised, while athletes in shorts and singlets bounce lightly at the line, shaking out their arms and legs as if they aren’t standing in the same building as the bundled parents with sweeping cold winds that enter with opened doors. In the middle of all the chaos stands Olivia Magagna, preparing for twenty-five laps that carry more than just distance. For her, the 5,000 meters is never just a race it’s a test of composure, expectation, and everything that comes with it.

    In the middle of the infield, Olivia Magagna reclines onto her backpack sitting on the floor looking relaxed. Her dirty blonde braid hanging down her back, the neon and orange spikes flashing against the dark track. The white Bloom jersey makes her easy to pick out among the sea of orange Bucknell uniforms. She smiles and talks with teammates before the race waiting for her time to come, but once warmups begin, her expression shifts. Her face tightens, not nervous exactly, but focused. All business. The 5,000 meters, a grueling twenty-five lap trip around the gym. For Olivia, running isn’t just a sport but a family tradition. Her whole family runs. Her dad was a professional triathlete. Split times, pacing strategies, and long-distance discipline wasn’t learned from YouTube videos, they were dinner table conversations. When asked where the pressure comes from before races, she doesn’t hesitate. “From everyone,” she says. “My coaches, my parents, my teammates, me.” The pressure doesn’t fade during warmups. “It lasts until the gun goes off.” And so, it begins.

    She takes the lead early, part of the plan, though she admits later it might not have been the smartest one. By lap five, she already looks controlled, shoulders relaxed. Her stride remains fluid and identical each time her spikes strike the track. The sound of spikes slapping the surface of the track echoes through the hollow room. Her braid swings side to side in perfect sync with her cadence. She doesn’t look at the crowd, she doesn’t look at the other runners, but she runs her own race. “My goal was to win it,” she notes. “And just see where my fitness was at. It was the first race.” Season openers are strange. They aren’t championships or finals. They’re feedback. Still, tradition doesn’t soften expectations. By the middle of the race, the structure formed by the runners begins to fracture. One runner stays within striking distance, but the gap between each and every athlete grows steadily. Around lap fifteen, shoulders on other competitors begin to tighten. Heads start to bob and breathing grows heavier and more visible. Olivia’s form barely changes. But internally, she knows something is off. “I felt like I went out too fast,” she admits. “But I just tried to go with it.” Fatigue doesn’t arrive all at once. Sometimes two-thirds through. Sometimes three-fourths. It’s unpredictable. But the one thing about the race is that it always demands honesty. The final stretch is always louder than the rest. Teammates start to yell, parents shout cliches “GO” “Finish Strong!”. She can hear her dad’s voice among them, yelling out splits and remains focused. The scoreboard flickers, the announcer’s voice echoes overhead, and his voice starts to rise in intensity, metal bleachers creak as spectators lean forward and stand up looking on with anticipation. With four laps to go, it’s time to push. On the last lap, her face shows effort for the first time. Her stride is tall, still composed, but the ease is gone. “I knew I wasn’t going to hit the time I wanted,” Olivia stated. “So, it became about finishing strong and learning from it.” She crosses the line and immediately looks at the clock. Then comes the first thought. “Probably disappointment.” She bends forward briefly, hands on her knees, then straightens and places her hands on her hips. She doesn’t search for celebration. She doesn’t look for anyone right away. “I didn’t really want to talk to my dad or my coach,” she reluctantly admits. “I already knew I didn’t perform the way I wanted to. So, I was just kind of like, let’s move on.” For someone raised in a family of endurance athletes, disappointment isn’t dramatic. It’s instructional. Running in the Magagna family, isn’t about one race. It’s about discipline. It’s about setting a goal and finishing it, even when it doesn’t unfold perfectly. “I’ve learned that if I set a goal, I’m going to complete that goal,” “I’m really disciplined.” The 5K is the longest race she runs right now. That’s part of why she loves it. “It gives you time to think,” she explains. “You can calm down. You can think about your strategy. “Twenty-five laps give you space to feel confident. It gives you space to misjudge pace, it gives you space to respond."

     As the meet winds down, trash piles near the concession stand and the awards table sits neatly arranged. The infield slowly clears as teams gather their duffel bags, the cold air slips in again when the doors open. Olivia blends back in with her teammates, she just becomes another athlete cooling down, her braid still swinging as she jogs easy laps. The season opener didn’t deliver the time she wanted, but tradition doesn’t end with one imperfect performance. It continues in the early morning oatmeal, the water bottles, the weeklong mental preparation, coaching, and teammates unwavering friendship and support. Twenty-five laps isn’t just a race. For Olivia, it’s part of something that started long before Bucknell’s navy blue track and will continue long after the final gun goes off.

 

Cats In Bloom

 

Paws and Second Chances: Inside Cats in Bloom

Walking into Cats in Bloom in Bloomsburg does not feel like what most people picture when they think of an animal shelter. It is not loud or chaotic, and it does not carry the heavy feeling that some shelters can have. Instead, it feels calm and steady. The room is warm, filled with cat towers, toys, blankets, scratching posts, and small hiding spaces spread throughout. But the peaceful atmosphere is not accidental. It takes constant work to keep it that way.

The day begins with cleaning and routine care. Volunteers and staff arrive early to scoop litter boxes, refresh food and water bowls, wipe down surfaces, and make sure each cat is healthy and accounted for. Even though the room feels relaxed to visitors, there is structure behind the scenes. Feeding schedules are tracked, medical updates are recorded, and new arrivals are slowly introduced to the space so they are not overwhelmed. The comfort of the cats depends on consistency.

The cats themselves bring personality into the room, but their behavior is also shaped by how the space is managed. Some confidently roam the floor, weaving between towers and visitors. Others choose higher perches or quiet corners. Staff members explained that part of their job is paying attention to these behaviors. A shy cat might need more time before being introduced to potential adopters. A more social cat might be placed in a spot where it can easily interact with visitors. The layout of the room changes when needed to reduce stress or separate cats who are not getting along.

Adoptions are not rushed. Interested visitors fill out applications, and staff members take time to ask questions about home environments, other pets, and daily routines. The goal is long-term placement, not quick turnover. As one staff member explained, “The biggest thing is making sure the cats go to a home where they’ll actually be cared for. We want them to be safe for the rest of their life.” That mindset shapes everything. Cats are matched carefully, and sometimes that means telling someone a certain cat might not be the right fit.

Keeping Cats in Bloom running also depends heavily on volunteers and community support. Donations of food, litter, blankets, and money help cover veterinary bills and daily expenses. Fundraisers and word of mouth bring attention to cats that need homes. Social media posts highlight individual personalities, turning each cat into more than just a number. Behind the calm atmosphere is a network of people working to make sure every cat has food, medical care, and a safe place to stay.

Even small moments reflect how the space operates. When a volunteer shakes a container of treats, it is not just a cute scene of cats gathering. It is also part of socialization. It helps shy cats build confidence and reinforces positive interaction with humans. When a new cat hides at first, staff members give it time rather than forcing interaction. Trust is built slowly, and that patience is part of what keeps the environment stable.

Overall, Cats in Bloom feels calm because it is carefully managed. The comfort visitors notice is the result of daily routines, detailed attention, and genuine care. It is not just a place where cats wait to be adopted. It is an organized, community-supported space that works every day to give animals stability and a real second chance.

Somewhere to feel safe.

 No matter who you are or what you are feeling, there is a safe and welcoming space for you on the ground floor of Kehr Union. Before you can even fully emerge down the stairs, you are met with colorful flags, and posters letting you know you are welcome, that everyone is. As visitors descend to the bottom of the stairs, tacked on the wall and sitting on shelves is an assortment of different resources, flyers, and artwork, put there by the kind souls at the Women's and LGBTQ resource center. Whether you are looking for events to go to, or a number to call if you are struggling, you can find these things before even stepping through the door, and when you finally do step through, you will be met with kind smiles and an chorus of cheerful greetings that go perfectly with the welcoming tone of the pale blue walls. The relaxing but insanely positive aura of the room is bound to make anyone feel like they belong. 

There is no doubt you have heard talk about the center, or even just seen a flyer for one of their events. Even if you aren't aware of it, the Women's Resource and LGBTQ center is responsible for some of the most popular events on campus, such as the fall drag show, pride on the patio, lavender graduation, and 2nd chance prom "Which gives students an option to go to prom with who they want to, which may have not been an option for them in high school" emphasizes the director, Megan Wein, a young woman with blonde hair, pink glasses, and an enthusiastic demeanor, the importance of the event clear in her eyes, and the eyes of her staff. The center tables at so many events and programs throughout campus on a constant basis, and holds seminars and trainings for staff members, making their voices heard and their causes widespread, and keeping the staff booked and busy. Even if there is not an event coming up, the center is open from 10AM to 4PM on weekdays, open to anyone who may want to come in for any reason at all. "Everyday looks different, that is the beauty of this job" exclaims Megan, the smile never leaving her face. Whether the staff is actively planning for an event, talking to or assisting a student in need, brainstorming ideas for future events, printing out flyers to spread around campus, promoting the center on social media, or just picking out stickers to pass out at events, the teamwork that goes into this center is undeniable.

The team at the center a huge collaboration on all levels, the dynamics between the director, student workers, and volunteers alike are treated as equals. It is made clear through shared looks and shared laughs that this team are not only coworkers, they are friends, and partners in working toward the same goal. "It would have never been like this at my other student jobs" explains Amie Trinkl, a student worker at the center, tucking her short brown hair behind her ear as she speaks. "I am able to plan events, if I have an idea I can go to Megan with it and she will say that's great, do it!" she explains as they look to Megan, who meets her gaze with a smile before piping up herself. "One of my biggest goals is if my staff has an idea I want them to run with it, and have the autonomy to bring that idea to life." she adds, followed by an abundance of nods from her staff members around the table. The mutual respect the entire staff is hard to miss, whether someone has been a member for 2 years or 2 weeks, the opportunity to bring an idea to life is theirs, and every staff member or even volunteer can bring it to Megan without hesitation and without fear of judgement. Joclynn Ramsey, a young woman with a calm demeanor, is on the second week of her internship with the center. "I am working my way up to eventually creating and planning one of these events myself," she commented, earning a proud nod from Megan. The constant hard work that the center puts in is softened a little with the team work and uplifting environment that the center creates. 

Not only does the center put together events and spread awareness, it also becomes a place where people meet their lifelong friends, whether introduced as coworkers, or someone entering the center for help. As soon as a foot crosses the threshold, a new friend is made. "I haven't been here long, but the people are definitely my favorite part. From day one, maybe even hour one I already felt comfortable and like I belonged. I can't even say this feels like a job at all, this is something I would do for fun." explains Joclynn, her voice calm and soothing. The comfortable environment always echoing with quiet chatter and laughter creating a symphony with the soft music playing in the background, a smile present on everyone's faces at all times. Leo Karsan, a volunteer of the center who is in a leadership position in BUYEA,  an organization that works in close quarters with the center, is there all the time. "We laugh a lot." he started "There is a lot of playful banter and I love coming down here even if it is just to say hi to everyone, I am down here multiple times a week just to hang out." Relationships becoming so strong that they even start to miss each other during long breaks. This relationship does not only apply to staff members, students who choose to go through the center are always met with kindness and compassion, and it means just as much to the staff when they do. "It is very student facing, which I like, I am able to make new friends." states Amie, her tone clearly indicating she has a few friends made from the center in mind. The space is welcome to all truly becomes a safe haven to anyone to enters, and somewhere no one wants to leave, which is made clear by Joclynn. 

"Now that I am here I feel like I will never leave." expresses Joclynn, the corners of her eyes crinkling as she shoots a smile towards Megan. 

Megan responds with a pouted out lip and a grateful look in her eyes. "Awe, don't make me cry". The exchange causing Amie to look up from where she was typing on her computer. 

Amie's eyes dart between Megan and Joclynn, a sarcastic smirk creeping across her face. "You are going to have to fight me for that Joclynn." she jokes, her tone mock serious but the twinkle in her eye makes the sarcasm clear "you think you aren't leaving, but I would fight for that spot." 

Joclynn retorts quickly and dryly, a familiar dynamic between the two showing. "Fine, we are fighting." she deadpans, causing a symphony of laughter from everyone sitting around the table. 

Once the laughter dies down, Megan rolls her eyes fondly, clearly used to the banter between the two. "I would hire all of you if I could." she noted, the love for her staff members and interns alike clear in the tone of her voice. 

The women and LGBTQ resource center stays true to their name when it comes being a resource to students on campus. A place where students or even staff members can go for any issue without fear of being judged or turned away. "We are very survivor centered here." Megan explains, the passion clear in her voice "We provide assistance to those who are going through or thinking about going through the title nine process." Students are able to receive assistance without even stepping foot into the center, resources and flyers, as well as numbers to call are displayed outside the door, as well as all around campus. That being said, taking the step into the center opens a door of infinitely more resources. Whether that be a quiet room to get some work done in, someone to talk through your problems with, a question about an event, or even just to take a much needed nap. "We have our regulars that come down and play games with us, and some regulars who just come sit on the couch and take a nap for a half hour." mentions Amie, showing the diversity of the space. The main room of the center almost feels like a living room in itself, a long and narrow room scattered with couches, chairs, a TV, a desk, and smiling faces. The main room being surrounded by an assortment of smaller rooms, including Megan's office, a bunch of smaller, quieter rooms that can be used to get worked done, an office filled with art supplies, crafts, and materials needed in the creation of their events, and in the corner, a room filled with clothes and shoes of all sizes ready to be used or donated, promptly called the clothing closet. The clothing closet is available to all students free of charge. "Encourage yourself and encourage your friends to come, it's like a free thrift store, we have a lot of clothes, so come take them, or donate them." Megan emphasizes. The center offers such a variety of different services and are happy to be there for students no matter what they need. Not only will it mean a lot to the students, but the work truly means a lot to the staff members as well. 

Many of the staff members at the center are women and/or a part of the LGBTQ community, therefore are aware of the struggles and hurdles they have to go through being in college, as well as life in general. The connection to the work that they do makes them more experienced and emotionally invested. This fact reigns true to one of the graduate workers, Ray Palmer. "It is rewarding to be connected to the kind of activities that I would have needed when I was younger." he contributed, the emotion filled statement causing the agreements of the others listening in. The passion of all the staff members to make Bloomsburg a more accepting and loving place is truly remarkable. 

Being a school organization, student involvement is so important, to the center itself and to the devoted staff members and volunteers. By showing up and just talking to them for a few minutes, or taking a sticker, or a cookie, you are spreading awareness for their cause and making the school a more accepting place. Going to events and experiencing the diversity the school has to offer can be so rewarding for you, as well as the staff members seeing their hard work and ideas being brought to life and appreciated by the people they are doing it for. "We have come so far in terms of women's issues and social justice related to the LGBTQ community" muses Megan 'but there is so much farther for us as well." she concludes. No showing of support is too small, or goes under appreciated, the gratitude the team here has for every student is undeniable, and that shows in the quality of work that they do to make this school a better place. The staff at the center wants to talk to you, and want to see your smiling faces!

Fine-Tuning the Ride (final)

    

The Entrance of The Dutch Wheelman Bicycle Shop

    As soon as you walk into The Dutch Wheelman Bicycle Shop on Main St in Bloomsburg, you will instantly spot a surplus of different colored bikes and two friendly folks in the rear of the shop. From front to back, you can notice the knowledge about bicycles, without even introducing yourself to the employees. At a glance, a sense of expertise sinks in quickly, for you know your bike troubles will get resolved. 

    Stepping into the red glass door of The Dutch Wheelman, notes of coffee, tire rubber, and hints of a car garage hit you immediately. The rectangular building has white walls strung with bicycles, photos of Frans' different voyages, and tons of bicycle riding equipment. The feel of the place finds itself lonely, as no other customers entered other than myself. The weather has a gigantic impact on business, knowing nobody wants to ride a bike in frigid temperatures. "Spring is the busiest, as the weather breaks, nice days come and people want to go biking," Frans explained. The vast brands of bikes, such as Trek, and the diversity of equipment shows the level that this place holds itself to. A trip up the pine grease stained stairs, in the back left corner, bikes dangle from the ceiling front to back. Boxes of parts and frames get stored in a spare room, for when they decide they need to build more bicycles. In the far right, you will discover a wall lined with tools and spare parts for tasks that need completed. 

Bikes lined up for sale

    Frans Verstraeten, the proud and longtime owner of Dutch Wheelman, knows all of the ins and outs about a bicycle. Going 41 years strong, you happen to see and come across a lot. A pair of blue jeans, a basic t-shirt, circular rimmed spectacles, and a strong and robust Dutch accent. Growing up in Europe as a bike racer, the passion for bikes was always there. After years in Europe, coming to the United States is when he began his ownership. "So when I came here, I had some jobs that were not so good. I got a better job, but I did not like that the pay scale was different on how long you were there instead of hard work. And they did not want to give me a raise, so I said I'm out of here! And then I started my own bicycle business," Frans said enthusiastically. These decisions were wise, seeing the long standing success they hold as a business, and success will carry through the family for generations. 

    The family connection hits you immediately when you enter The Dutch Wheelman. Along with Mr. Verstraeten, his son in law, Peter Hall is another key piece that keeps this place going. Peter Hall, a middle-aged man dressed in work jeans, a basic t-shirt, and a classic trucker style cap, has worked on and fixed up bicycles for countless years. Like Frans, his life long earnestness to bicycles gives a sense of excellence to the shop. If there's an issue, they will get it resolved as soon as they can. "There are very few things that I have not seen. And when you think you have seen it all, then somebody comes in with something difficult," Hall describes. Through all the hard work and determination, Hall has strived and will continue to strive for excellence. 

   

     For Frans, biking goes way beyond passion, it is his way of life. Coming from Europe, he always enjoys a voyage out of the United States to go observe the world. But it is never just alone, he carries along his family and friends with him on these trips as well. A complete bike ride around these countries is a must to really implement themselves, and take in what each country has to offer. France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Scotland are just a few of the countries he has toured on bicycle. "I take people on tours, to enjoy the fun of biking as well as seeing and taking in these cultures. We want to take in all the culture," Frans noted. The commitment to continue these trips every summer really highlights his life long ardency for cycling. 

Photographs of Frans' many bicycle trips

     No day in the shop unfolds the same way, as new problems can erupt at any moment. "It's all different. Sales, it's service, it's... every day is different," Peter Hall demonstrates. Whether working on an old bicycle with tools that stopped production, or building bikes for the store floor, it is always something new every shift. Some days, they get aggressively overwhelmed with work, and do not even get a chance to think for themselves. "But there will be a time where we don't sit down, we don't eat lunch, it's just gets busy like that," Hall expresses. Back to a previous point, the weather contributes as a major factor in how swamped they get. Weather determines if a day consists of mainly sales or building bicycles throughout the day. 

       Walking back out through the red glass door, you quickly realize that The Dutch Wheelman offers far more than just your average bicycle shop. Their stories, their travels around the globe, and their nonstop drive to solve any issues or complications that pedal into the shop reflects the knowledge that Frans and Peter pour into their work. Even on the quietest winter days, the shop displays the drive and passion that these two men carry for themselves. As seasons shift and cyclers return, The Dutch Wheelman stands prepared for whatever challenges come in their direction.

    

Bloomsburg's favorite Boutique

What makes a boutique more than just a clothing store? Is it the atmosphere, the clothing, or the people behind the counter? "A boutique is a small shop usually offering a customized, more personal experience than larger retail stores." Wise words from one of Magic 5 boutiques most adored faces behind the counter, Ms. Carey.  Carey was nice enough to share her personal thoughts and experiences working behind the doors of Magic 5. After working for years, she knows the business and adores it better than anyone.

 On the Main Street of Bloomsburg sits one of the towns favorite small businesses, the Magic 5 Boutique. Magic 5 is the only authentic boutique in Bloomsburg offering a variety of clothing, accessories, and customized pieces. From the outside, murals reach across two beautifully large windows, screaming at the passerby to come and take a look inside. The window displays intrigue you as handpicked clothing and stunning decor fill the space. An elegant doormat greets you as you walk in, matched with a white floral wreath that brightens the somber exterior. When you walk in your eyes are suddenly met with beautiful accessories, racks full of clothing, and a cheerful woman standing behind the desk. Carey gives each customer a a customized experience, where one can truly feel they are seen and welcomed. 

The walls are wood panels painted bright white, but they don't feel plain due to the vibrant pieces bringing the room to life. The emptiness of the walls truly help bring out all of the radiant pieces on display. Knitted neutral sweaters sway beside patterned dresses, and rhinestone encrusted hair pins glisten under the light. What makes Magic 5 stand out is their openness to welcome all people. In the back room a men's area is carefully arranged, showcasing some of the stores favorites. The men's clothing, much like the woman's, offers a plentiful selection to choose from, including several options between long sleeve shirts and thick jackets! "We try to carry something for everyone," Carey proudly exclaimed when asked about the back room. She believes fashion is for everyone, not just girls, and thought about this deeply when creating the outline of the boutique.

Another remarkable detail about Magic 5 is their evolving inventory! A lot of boutiques and large corporations don't take the time to switch out inventory, leaving the same pieces showing for months. Magic 5 loves variety and receives new items every week! This aspect of the boutique is what  makes people come back so frequently. An older woman who happened to be shopping was more than delighted to give her insight, "I see something different every time I come in, which doesn't happen at a lot of small businesses in Bloomsburg." This aspect of Magic 5 keeps customers intrigued and has them running back frequently. 

Magic 5 ultimately offers more than just cute trinkets, stylish apparel, and captivating jewelry. They offer a tailored shopping experience fit for everyone in town. Magic 5 is a professional example that taking care and putting authentic work into your business, will help it thrive graciously.

While walking out of the boutique you are faced with a come back soon sign...which is exactly what you would do!

The Home of Student Essentials

   The Bloomsburg University Store located on East Second Street inside of Shultz Hall, offers a bright school spirited atmosphere. The University store has bright lights, that shine on the many displays they have, which brings much liveliness to the store. Most wall are painted a maroon color, with gray block walls only on the right side of the store, this brings much school spirt because Bloomsburg is represented by the color maroon. When you walk in, many decorative items line the walls, like a huge Bloomsburg University decal the length of a whole wall and a sign that says "Howl About A Book". In all you will find the University store an inviting place with lots of school spirit. 

     Laura Hegar the University store manager over sees all of the smaller departments in the store. Laura stays very recognizable by her black glasses, bright and colorful professional outfits, and shoulder length brown hair, which helps to show off her bubbly personality. Inside the school store they have multiple departments like accounting, textbooks, help desk, clothing buyer, social media/marketing and more. Within the University store many employees work together to keep the whole store running smoothly. Laura and her amazing team work so hard to make sure the needs of students stay met within the different departments the store encases. 

    Seven days a week everyone from students and staff to the general public can visit the the Bloomsburg University Store. At the University Store you can find may things like, insignia items, clothing, books, home decor, school supplies, textbooks, study guides, accessories, food/drinks and more. With all the options and great organization it is very easy to find something you need or want. The University store has its very own section for textbooks, which serves as a great help to students because this where they can go to get their textbooks unavailable online, before they start classes. Overall it makes everything much more convenient for the people in the school wanting or needing something.

    The University store can be broken down into 4 main sections,

 "Grab and Go", "Booktok", Clothing/accessories, and School supplies/textbooks. 

When you walk into the store you will see an entire section called "grab and go". In this section you will find everything from food and water to personal care items and more. This can be very beneficial for students without a vehicle or for some reason cannot leave campus but need an essential. They created the Booktok section to get students more engaged with reading because all the books that in that section come from social media/TikTok. This can help students get more engaged in reading because they read about it on social media and then they might want to read more about it. The University Store having school supplies and textbooks readily available to students/staff serves as a great benefit. This cuts down on students having to find textbooks on third party websites or making sure that they purchase the right textbook. The University Store makes easy to find the textbook counter with a large yellow sign that says "Textbook Service Counter" above it. Having school supplies like notebooks, folders, pencils and more readily available has great benefits because if you went school shopping and all the sudden you need something else for a class or you forgot something, you don't have to worry about making another trip to a big store, you can just go to the University store and get what you need. A large part of the University store is the clothing and accessories. They have things like crewnecks, hoodies, shirts, stickers, mugs, hats and more that all have Bloomsburg or Commonwealth University designs on them so you can help to support the school and show off your school spirit. Each of these sections serve a very different purpose but all together they make a great one stop shop for students if they need an essential. 

 Laura Hegar the University store manager says in a soft tone that "the most sold item at the University store are the ID wallets that stick to the back of your phone case", but personally she like the hoodies and the Booktok section the best.

    You can get involved with the University store through a on campus job there. With a campus job there you can do many things like accounting, marketing, and just sales in general. When working there you will most likely get placed in a position that has to do with you major. For example, if you are a marketing major you will likely have a job working in social media. A current student worker stated, "it is a good job for when you need a job in college because you have to pay monthly rent or other expenses". This on-campus job teaches you how to be employed in a teamwork setting, reliable and be a student with a job to learn to manage a work, school balance without having to travel far for a job. 

    A Student Worker at the University store emphasized that they like working there because of the very friendly and understanding customers. She stated with joy the customers put into consideration that they are student workers, so they also have the job of being a student and learning how to do their job at the University store, so customers usually have more patience with them. 

    Having a Job in the University store has its advantages and disadvantages according to Laura. When she goes on to hire someone for the University store she thinks of the goals, she wants them to achieve by the end. Her goals consist of students having fun, learning real world experiences, gaining critical thinking skills like recognizing problems and learning how to solve them, creating a good customer service persona, learning how to enhance/create social media promotions, and having good accountability. By them showing up to work on time when scheduled and understanding that what they do will affect the other staff. This all teaches responsibility and skills that you need to know to excel in the future. Although there are advantages to working at the University store there can also be disadvantages according to Laura. For example, when you go to graduate you will have to go out and find that job that you worked hard to get and you will learn how to take those goals you learned at the University store and put them into action. Laura stated that the disadvantage to her of having student workers is they work there most of time for 4 years, and when they work there for that long she creates a close relationship with the students, so when they go on to graduate, she has to train and meet new students. Having a job at the University store can come with its ups and downs but overall, it can be a great way to gain experience about real world situations.  

 As you venture throughout the store you will notice that most people shopping there have differences, on weekdays you get mostly students shopping, and on weekends you get new prospective students, their families, and members of the community. 

A prospective student and his family stated happily that "everything in the store was great, it was very well organized and had variety of things and sizes". When going to check out they emphasized that the staff was very helpful with all of the questions they had and they were very attentive to the needs of the customers in the store. 

     A current student at the University, Peighton Spangler said " the University store was very impressive when she first saw it. It reminded her of a clothing section in a department store when it came to what kinds of clothes they had, because they had a lot of name brands like Nike, Under Armour and Champion". As a student she showed a sense of joy when talking about the "grab and go" section. She stated if you can't get out to get your car or if you don't feel like going out you can just go to the school store and get your essentials.

    Even though the University store remains open seven days a week, some days at the University store can be busier than others, and with special events/more people, it usually means a sale. The busiest times of year consist of the first few weeks of the semester, move in day, orientation in the summer, admissions program weekends like major showcases, and homecoming/parents' weekend. Laura said happily that she loves the beginning of the semester and move in week because she gets to meet the new students and their parents. While these are the busiest times of year, most staff say these days sit at the top of their list, being their favorite times of the year. For almost every holiday and event held by the school the University store has a sale that goes along with it. For example, on Valentines Day they are having a sale buy one item get one item 50% off. These fun weekends that the school has for new and future students help to show the schools culture and what a convenience the school store can be even when busy. 

    Overall, the University store at Bloomsburg can be one of the most resourceful places on campus. If you find yourself in need of a job, it can be a great place for you to work on campus, so you don't have to worry about having to travel far for work. With the University store having everyday essentials like food, water, school supplies, and more it can be so beneficial for students on campus because they do not have to leave campus to get their essentials.