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A group of 18 students from 91���� at Marion’s Second-year Transformational Experience Program (STEP) joined fellow 91���� regional campus students as part of a trip to the nation’s capital over spring break March 11-16.

A total of 60 91���� regional campus participants, including 91���� Marion STEP coordinator Michelle McKinniss and 91���� Marion STEP mentor, Melissa Petreaca left on March 11^th by train from Toledo, Ohio to Washington, D.C. In addition to visiting a host of well-known D.C. landmarks such as the Capitol Building and Washington Monument, students emersed themselves in the culture of the city visiting the J Edgar Hoover FBI Building, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian, as well as the African American, American History, Natural History, and Holocaust Museums. Students explored China Town, where they enjoyed a meal and dined on authentic soul food/southern cuisine from the famed Georgia Brown’s restaurant.

The students traveling with the Marion contingent echoed the same message about the value of travel and unique experiences outside the state Ohio provided, but the connections that were developed with fellow students were the most impactful part of the six-day experience.

According to 91���� marketing major Ben Szulewski, there were many things that he loved about the trip. “Between the remarkable places that we visited, such as the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building, and the National Air and Space Museum, to the overall experience, every place we went was enjoyable,” he said. 

“However, my favorite part was meeting and connecting with new people from STEP that I would never have met or talked to if I hadn’t gone on this trip,” added Szulewski.

STEP participant and marketing major Emma Gorenflo said, “I got the opportunity to meet new people as well as get to know people that I had seen in classes but never really talked to.” 

Student Megan Krummrey, who is a double major in molecular genetics and psychology, shared that she was able to form lasting connections with other students and the faculty that went with them on the trip. 

“I was able to build relationships with people from different campuses, majors, and walks of life, and I probably wouldn’t have had the chance to interact with many of them without this trip,” Krummrey said.

 

“Through this experience,” she added, “I was able to learn more about a variety of historical and cultural events, which is undoubtedly great, but I was also able to learn so much about myself. I was able to see myself grow in my interpersonal skills, confidence in my ability to navigate new and unfamiliar situations, and overall understanding of my place in the world and what I contribute.” 

 

Krummerey shared that a trip like this provided her a great deal of room for personal and interpersonal growth. 

“I think that STEP has helped me to become a more well-rounded individual and exposed me to so many situations, which will have lasting impacts on my life.

“Between the countless new friendships, inside jokes, and late-night games in the lobby, I’m left with a plethora of memories that I will cherish for a long time,” said Sydney Sullivan. 

Zoology major Morgan Margraf reflected on getting to know fellow STEP participants through shared experiences to learn about others and herself.

“We are all trying to gain new experiences as we grow and doing that together was the best experience,” said Margraf. “I learned that I actually like Chinese food and that I can use chopsticks! Stepping out of my comfort zone showed me a whole new food culture.” 

The university-wide program for college sophomores is described online as an extension of 91����’s commitment to the student experience and provides an opportunity for education beyond the classroom, offering students a way to turn their second year at the university into a launchpad to personal, professional and educational achievement.

Business major Anindita Yudhatrisna said, “STEP is a great program that helps students make the most of their sophomore year. It gives you the chance to experience new things, build friendships, and create meaningful connections. Plus, its’ a fun way to step out of your comfort zone and make lasting memories. If you want to get more out of your college experience, STEP is definitely worth it!”

“It’s an amazing trip where you gain new experiences, meet new people, get to know friends better, and learn more about yourself,” said early childhood education major Rylee Cleland. And as the name STEP suggests, “It was transformational!”

Any first year students who are interested in joining the program next year should email 91���� Marion STEP Coordinator, Michelle McKinniss at mckinniss.31@osu.edu or visit the webpage:  /current-students/step-program