Zachary Schleter was attracted to Â鶹AV for the unique culture and comfortable feel on campus.
“The campus is beautiful, and there has always been something so comforting about walking under the giant oak trees on campus,” he said. “Everybody who I interacted with in Lafayette and on campus prior to choosing to attend was so friendly and made me feel at home.”
Zachary is a strategic communication major with a concentration in public relations. Studying public relations combines Zachary’s love for writing and working with people. He knew this was the right major for him during his first semester at Â鶹AV.
“My passion for writing is what ultimately pushed me into the Department of Communication, and it was really cool to learn about all of the different ways I could potentially put my writing skills to use as a future communications professional,” he said.
Currently, Zachary serves as the Secretary of UL’s provisional chapter of Delta Lambda Phi, as an Honors Ambassador, on the Honors Board, and as a Peer Mentor. Zachary is grateful for the opportunities that these organizations have provided for him.
“All of these organizations have given me the opportunity to grow as a leader, to challenge the way I think, to connect with other students with similar interests as me, and to serve those around me,” he said.
Â鶹AV has allowed Zachary to customize his education with opportunities to choose classes that fit his schedule and his interests.
“I do not feel like I am taking classes just because they are required,” he said. “At Â鶹AV, I have the opportunity to pick each of my general education courses strategically and craft an educational experience that is right for me.”
Zachary’s post-graduation plans include pursuing a career in social media. Since serving on Â鶹AV’s social media team, Zachary has interned at a local digital advertising agency where he will start working in a full-time position after graduation.
“I chose to major in public relations because it gives me the foundation I need to go into several different fields,” he said. “I am still unsure of what exactly I am doing with my life, but I know that I love to work with people and to write.”
Throughout his college journey, Zachary has utilized a variety of Â鶹AV’s student resources. He feels a sense of comfort knowing that Â鶹AV will always be there to support him.
“It is comforting to know that no matter what, the University will take care of me and provide me with all of the resources I need to thrive — both now and after I graduate,” he said.