Dylan Bowers ’25, was initially drawn to Hiram College because of the small school environment and close-knit atmosphere. Bowers committed to Hiram because of the flexibility with the Financial Aid Office and the financial aid offer he received. Bowers fell in love with campus and spent his four years studying and enjoying time with his friends in the residence halls.

Double majoring in political science and criminal justice while minoring in public leadership meant a heavy course load and a need to focus on academics. However, this did not stop Bowers from being heavily involved on campus. Along with being on the football team and working in the Registrar’s Office, he was a member of the Garfield Center for Public Leadership (GCPL) and an Eclectic Honors student. Bowers’s hard work and involvement on campus led to his reception of fellowship in the Ohio House of Representatives.

The professors, relationships, and resources on campus contributed to Bowers’s success in the GCPL program. Advisor Laci Fiala, Ph.D. and associate professor of criminal justice and sociology, supported Bowers throughout his four years at Hiram. Xavier Dupree, head football coach, also helped by keeping him engaged during practices and games. His work at the Registrar “really helped prepare me for the professional world,” he states. Hiram College gave Bowers a better understanding of the world. Bowers says, “Before coming to Hiram College, I was close-minded and nervous for the future. But now I’m making plans to grow in my profession with jobs and graduate programs in the U.S. and abroad.”

For any current or incoming student, Bowers shares that help is right around the corner—you just need to ask for it! It can be difficult asking help from others, but Hiram makes receiving help accessible for all.

Dylans advice to current or in-coming students at Hiram College is short but meaningful:

Enjoy the four years. As someone who just graduated, it flies by.