Mary Walter is a senior biology and chemistry major from Solon, Ohio. She chose to attend Lake Erie College when she was recruited for the NCAA Division II volleyball program, and also because of the LEC science program. She is currently pursuing a track in pre-med, which will lead her to apply to medical school after she graduates from Lake Erie in May 2013.

When she is not spending time in the lab or in practice, Mary is busy with a variety of activities on campus. This year she is the captain of the volleyball team, she works at the Student Life office, tutors in math, German, and biology, is a Resident Assistant for the third year in a row, a member of Mortar Board, and a Student Government Association President. She definitely keeps busy, and says that the opportunity to get involved and make a difference is her favorite thing about Lake Erie College.

As President of the Student Government Association, Mary is involved in many of the activities that the student body organizes, putting together events and fundraisers for different groups throughout the year. "Our most recent fund raiser [was] the 24 hour Bike-A-Thon from which all profits [went] to the Reid Rizzo Foundation,” she said. The Foundation was established in memory of Storm baseball player Reid Rizzo. Student Government also actively participates in the planning and running of Homecoming week, and events such as the powder puff football game, young alumni events, Homecoming weekend tailgate and football game.

"SGA has tried to work closely with other organizations on campus as well,” Mary says."For instance, SGA worked with SAAC [Student-Athlete Advisory Committee] to put on the pep rally during Homecoming week. We bought the car that the students smashed.”

"SGA listens to what the students say and attempts to make changes and better serve the student body,” she added.

As a member of SAAC, Mary is one of a number of student-athletes who are able to actively participate in the decision-making process on campus. Being a student-athlete is an important part of her LEC experience, since one of the main reasons she originally considered LEC was our volleyball program.

"Volleyball is a sport that I love. I have been playing since middle school,” she says. "I really enjoy being a student athlete because it helps keep me on track and focused. It has helped me to better manage my time and stay on top of all my work.Being a part of this team I have made lifelong friends who I can turn to for anything.”

Where does she see herself in five years or so?

"Either a doctor or a physician assistant, working in the operating room or emergency room,” Mary says. "I hope to have moved out of my parents’ house and have my own place.I want to have complete independence.”