Meet Graduate Student Ambassador Andrew Rubas

Describe your interest in your academic program and what you hope to gain from it.

I chose the MA Education with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership because of my involvement in undergrad. Through my program, I hope to learn how institutions of higher education function and to learn the skills necessary to advise college students one day.

What is your favorite course you’ve taken so far? If you are in your first year, what course are you most looking forward to in your program? Why?

The course that I am most looking forward to is Leadership and Administration of Higher Education. I am most excited for this course because it focuses on how to be an effective leader in higher education and what leadership is. It also takes a closer look at how leadership functions in higher education and the different styles of leadership employed.

What are a few things you would like to share with prospective students regarding the Villanova student experience?

Get to know the people in your program! They can become an invaluable support system for you during your time at 'Nova!

How do you maintain a good school/life balance?

Set boundaries for yourself and make sure to take time to recharge and rest. It is very easy when you are first getting started to want to do everything or prove yourself but you should prioritize yourself and well-being first and foremost.

If you’re living around Villanova, what are one to two “must do” experiences you would suggest to students new to Villanova and the surrounding area including Philadelphia? (Restaurants to eat, be...)

You have to check out the King of Prussia Mall and the Philadelphia Art Museum. The King of Prussia Mall is absolutely gigantic and has so many stores and is one of the largest malls in the country located close to Villanova and the Philadelphia Art Museum has a vast array of different types of art from across the centuries.

Describe what it means to be a graduate student at Villanova. In other words, why Villanova?

Villanova's vibrant campus community made me feel like I belonged as soon as I stepped on campus. The many friendly faces and support that graduate students receive even before they become a Villanovan is unparalleled.