By: Amanda Nagy
A typical day at McPherson College looks different from student to student. Whether you’re a student athlete or an auto restoration major, there is always something going on around campus or someone to stop by and say hello to. Logan Wonser, a vibrant 21-year-old who brings campus to life, knows McPherson College like the back of her hand. As a three-year veteran of the cheerleading squad and a familiar, friendly face across campus, Logan’s daily life is a testament to balancing ambition with genuine connection. A day in her life is a whirlwind of fun and full of interaction.
For Logan, mornings are a masterclass in efficiency. “Typically, I wake up half an hour before I have to be placed,” she shares. Her morning routine starts with all of the essential steps: brushing her teeth, using the bathroom, brushing her hair, and taking her medications. “Then, after I feel more alive and like a person, I’ll look at the weather and pick out an outfit.” Practicality is key to this morning hustle. Her final stop of the morning is the kitchen where she fills her water bottle, grabs a quick breakfast, and grabs her bag before she heads out for the day.
Logan’s class schedule for a typical week is as follows:
Monday: The week starts with Social Problems (1-2 PM), followed by a late night class Research Methods (7-10 PM).
Tuesday: Mid-morning she has Learning, Memory, and Cognition (11-12:30 PM), followed by Sociology Proseminar (12:30-2 PM). The evening concludes with another night class Developmental Psychopathology (7-10 PM).
Wednesday: A revisit to Social Problems (1-2 PM).
Thursday: Just like Tuesday, with Learning, Memory, and Cognition (11-12:30 PM) and Sociology Proseminar (12:30-2 PM).
Friday: The week ends with Social Problems (1-2 PM) and Junior Seminar (2-3 PM).
The cheerleading season has come to a swift end within the last month, leaving Logan with some extra time on her hands that she isn’t used to. “Now that cheer is out of season, I have about 47 hours of free time in the week, including weekends,” she describes. Without practices and weight lifting to fill her free time, Logan has more time to focus on her job and self care. Logan works part-time at the college library to keep herself afloat as a college student. With her schedule often stretching into the late hours of the evening, Logan really cherishes those moments of downtime that she does get. “Usually, I treat myself because I have such little free time,” she admits. During her free time, Logan enjoys indulging in a relaxing “everything shower” before bed, ordering takeout, watching a movie or TV show, or diving into a good book. “Occasionally, I have friends over, and we all hang out too, which is really nice, but I do really like to take care of myself first.”
Juggling academics, cheerleading, homework, and two jobs requires an intense level of organization. What’s Logan’s secret weapon? A masterfully created Google Calendar. “I have a Google Calendar that is connected to my laptop, iPad, and phone, and I keep track of where I need to be and when through that. Then I have a homework list on my iPad that I update daily with due dates and completed tasks to stay on top of school work.” Logan keeps track of her work very well and even when she feels as though she is falling behind, she relies on her organizational skills and time management to make sure she gets right back on track.
When asked what she loves most about campus culture, Logan’s answer is quick to mind: “I love the people the most. I love how caring and supportive the community is and also how close-knit it is on campus.” Logan spends a lot of time with friends and always feels as though there’s a familiar face at every turn. Being an active and responsible member of the college community has given Logan the tools to be successful. When asked for advice about the MC community, Logan says, “One thing I believe every student should know about time management whilst on campus is that it’s so important to be where you are expected. If you miss class or practice, you are going to have people trying to find you or texting you or emailing you asking where you are, what you’re doing, and if you’re okay. The people here care, and so making sure you’re doing what you need to and you’re at the places you’re expected to be is vital. Also, people are counting on you. It’s selfish to let them down because you’re forgetful and bad at organizing your time.”
Logan’s story is a great snapshot into what it’s like to be a student athlete and student worker at McPherson College. With a blend of academic and extracurricular passions and a strong support system, Logan’s campus experience has been extremely positive. Her commitment to both her studies and her connections on campus are proof that no matter how busy you may be, there is always a place for you at McPherson. As she steps into her senior year, Logan carries her experiences and love for others with her and shows what it means to be a Bulldog.
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