While many view college as a chance to leave home, Zachary Troese saw it as an opportunity to discover the "heartbeat" of the town he already loved. A lifelong resident of Clarion, Pennsylvania, Zack knew exactly where he belonged.

"To me, there was no other choice. I had to go to Clarion," Zack said. "This is my town. These are my people."

However, stepping onto the PennWest Clarion campus as a student offered a perspective completely different from living nearby as a resident. It was a whole new world that required him to dive in headfirst. Zack’s journey wasn't a straight line, and that is part of his message of resiliency. He started as an education major before discovering his true passion lies elsewhere, eventually switching to Psychology.

"I used to think switching my majors around all the time was a bad thing," Zack said. "But that was just me figuring things out. Doubting is just part of your journey. You’ve just got to acknowledge it and embrace it."

Zach found his stride by getting involved. He joined the University Activities Board, serving as president and PR chair, sang in the choir, and even served on the homecoming court. Through the UAB, he gained practical, hands-on experience creating marketing videos and engaging the student body.

"My favorite part of my college career was just getting to be part of that group," he said. "I look back at those videos with so much happiness."

Zack’s story perfectly illustrates the power of community. He transformed from a local resident into a campus leader who helped shape the student experience for others. As he prepares to pursue a master’s in school counseling, he carries with him a profound sense of growth.

"We aren't the same people that we were when we started here," Zack said. "We're better. We've developed. The more you do, the more stories you have."