Rosalia Cappadora graduated from Shippensburg University in May of 2020. Her Ship experience allowed her to achieve a number of goals and score a few in the process.

A three-sport athlete at Manchester Valley High School, Cappadora joined Ship’s decorated field hockey program. She racked up numerous honors as a Raider and joined the Student Athlete Advisory Committee as well as Tau Kappa, an honors society for female athletes.

While field hockey was a major factor in Cappadora’s initial interest in Ship, the university’s reputation for producing excellent teachers was also a draw. Noting the knowledgeable and caring professors in the Biology Department, she ended up in the Biology with Secondary Certification, B.A. program.

“Being a biology major allows you to explore all sciences. While being grounded in biology, I was exposed to many diverse tracks and I was able to solidify my path in science education,” Cappadora said.

To further solidify her path in education and create more connections, Cappadora became a biology tutor in addition to her student teaching duties. She also got involved with the Pennsylvania State Education Association.

“When selecting a college, I wanted to go somewhere that was small enough that I would be known by my professors but not too small that I would not be able to make new friends or have an individualized path. I found Shippensburg to fit that description perfectly,” Cappadora said. “I never felt like a number in any of my classes and I maintained individuality through my diversified involvement around the campus and throughout the community.”

Cappadora, also a Disability Studies Minor, found further involvement on campus as a student worker in the Office of Accessibility Resources. She was also a member of Catholic Campus Ministry.

“Shippensburg University introduced me to something new every day. I formed lasting relationships with peers, professors and other faculty and staff. I grew academically, athletically, personally and professionally.”

Read more stories from the Class of 2020.