DayLynn Thornton plans to one day be a CEO of a real estate company. She is confident that she will meet that goal, just as she has succeeded in reaching the other marks she has set for herself.

Go to college: check. Develop lifelong friendships: check. Be a successful athlete: check. Excel academically: check. Complete her degree: check.

Thornton will graduate May 3 with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, with a concentration in real estate. The Golden Eagles women’s basketball player from Layfayette, Indiana, has been solid not only on the court, but also in the classroom. She was recognized as a scholar-athlete this year; students must have a minimum 3.2 GPA to earn scholar-athlete status.

Excelling while managing the demands on her time has been one of the most important skills she has acquired at PennWest Clarion.

“I feel blessed that my college experience has taught me discipline, diligence and the value of strong friendships,” Thornton said. “The challenges I faced in balancing academics, athletics and personal growth have helped me develop a strong work ethic and time management skills.”

This spring, Thornton took a class that explored what college has taught her and how to apply it in actual situations.

“Because it forced me to thoroughly consider all I had acquired, I believe that was the most useful course,” she said. “It truly highlighted the resources at my disposal.”

Another valuable experience has been playing basketball.

“Having a team and people that share the same interest as you (when you’re) coming into a college that you don't know was very beneficial. I've created lifelong connections through not just my team, but the whole athletic community,” she said.

Thornton said she always knew she wanted to have the experience of going to college and developing the lasting relationships that occur in a higher education setting.

“The relationships I've built have shown me the importance of a strong support system, both personally and professionally, which I know will be vital as I move into the next chapter of my life,” she said.

That next chapter will include acquiring her broker and real estate license, and working as an online real estate representative. Her goal of becoming a real estate CEO is one she’ll pursue as her career develops.

Her advice to incoming students is “Have fun. Put yourself out there. Meet people and build connections.”