Name: Emily Runzer
Hometown: Chesterfield, NJ
Major: Public Relations
Year: Senior
Involvement: Theta Phi Alpha, Her Campus WPUNJ, Student Ambassador and Order of Omega Honor Society
Fun Fact: I lived in England for two years!
Favorite Quote: “Be who you were meant to be and you will set the world on fire.”
HC: You’ve been a sister of your sorority for three years, what are the top three things you love about being a part of Theta Phi Alpha?
ER: I love that no matter where I go there is always someone I have a special connection with. I have randomly met sisters in other states and it is just like they are in my own chapter. I have been able to hold positions doing things that I love and that will give me experience relevant to my career. I also love that it gives me so many opportunities to give back to the community and philanthropies.
HC: Theta Phi Alpha gives back to the community and hosts a lot of events on campus. What is your favorite event that you do with your sisters?
ER: My favorite event is our annual Theta Phi Guy pageant. It is our largest event and is so much fun. I love that we are able to raise so much for an organization that means so much to our sisters each year.
HC: You’re also a student ambassador; any advice to students looking at universities?
ER: Visit the campus! When I was looking for colleges, I toured so many college campuses and those visits are what really gave me a feel for each school and if I liked it or did not. Also – don’t be afraid to ask questions!
HC: What’s one thing you love about William Paterson and one thing you would change?
ER: My favorite thing about William Paterson is its location. We’re so close to New York, but we still are still on a really beautiful wooded campus. One thing I would change is that I would put a Chipotle on campus.
HC: Any professors that leave a lasting impression during your four years here?
ER: I had so many great professors at William Paterson but the ones that have influenced me the most are the ones in the communication department. One that really left an impression on me was my advisor, Professor Brown. She was always there to help me and other students with classes, internships and careers.
HC: What’s one thing you wish you could’ve told your high school self about college?
ER: Get involved as soon as you get there. I waited until my second semester to get involved in clubs and organizations. Those groups are what made my college experience, and I wish I had gotten involved in them sooner.
HC: You have a blog too! Tell me what inspired your Fun, Fab & Broke brand.
ER: In my Public Relations Workshop class we were required to manage a blog throughout the semester. I did my blog on affordable restaurants around the William Paterson campus. When I got to my capstone I decided to expand on that idea and create a whole affordable lifestyle blog including food, fashion and fitness for college students.
HC: Any words of wisdom to others new to the blogging scene?
ER: My advice is to make sure you stay true to yourself. Having a unique view and voice brings people to your page. I always try to put some sort of humor into my posts.
HC: You’re also a part of our Her Campus WPUNJ team! How do you manage to balance your extra-curricular activities, internships, class work, and sneaking in a few breaths of air here and there?
ER: I am a huge advocate for time management. I keep a planner and write down everything I have to do so I don’t forget. I check my schedule the night before so I know exactly what I need to do the next day and can make a game plan to get it done.
HC: If you could visit your future self and ask her one question. What age would you want to visit and what would you ask?
ER: I wouldn’t go – I want my future to be a surprise. :)