For Heidelberg alumna Ashlie (Burkhart) Gowitzka ’06, returning to campus for Opening Convocation was an opportunity to offer the Class of 2030 reassurance she wishes she could have given her younger self: that they do not need to have college — or life — all figured out just yet.
Ashlie, who earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology and Adolescent-Young Adult Life Science Education from Heideblerg, returned to campus Thursday to deliver the keynote address at Opening Convocation, welcoming the university’s newest students and encouraging them to embrace the uncertainty, opportunities and experiences that come with their first year of college.
“It's a blank slate on which to write the rest of your story, and that story begins at Heidelberg,” she told the Class of 2030.
Drawing on her own Heidelberg journey, Ashlie – a veteran science teacher at Sandusky’s Perkins High School since 2009 – offered students five pieces of advice: say yes, talk to your professors, give yourself permission to change, don’t be afraid to fail, and be present.
She encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones by accepting invitations, trying new activities, attending campus events and introducing themselves to people they don’t know.
“You don't become part of a community by waiting for it to happen to you,” she said. “You become part of it by showing up.”
Ashlie also urged students to build relationships with their professors and seek help when they need it. She reminded them that college brings greater freedom, but also greater responsibility, and encouraged students to advocate for themselves.
“If you're confused, ask. If you need help, ask,” she said. “Your professors want you to succeed. Let them help you.”
She also encouraged students to remain open to change. Majors, career plans, interests and relationships may evolve during their college years, she said, and those changes are opportunities for growth rather than failures.
“I certainly wasn't the same person when I graduated from Heidelberg as I was when I arrived,” Ashlie said. “And honestly, I'm grateful for that.”
When she looks back on her Heidelberg experience, she doesn’t remember every paper, test or grade. She remembers the people, conversations and experiences and the feeling of being part of something bigger than herself.
“Your time here is going to be about much more than earning a degree,” she told the Class of 2030. “It is going to be about discovering who you are, discovering what you’re capable of, and discovering the people and experiences that will stay with you long after you leave this campus.”
As she concluded her address, she reminded the Class of 2030 that their first year — and their Heidelberg story — is just beginning.
“You don't have to know exactly where you're going,” she said. “You don't have to have your entire life planned. You just have to be willing to take the next step.”
After 20 years, Ashlie said, her Heidelberg experience still feels like yesterday.
“Pay attention,” she told the students. “Because you are going to blink, and four years will be gone.”