Alumni Spotlight - Syully Koroh '21/M'23

Bobcat Bulletin Alumni Spotlight highlights alumni who give back to Frostburg in some way - time, talent, treasure or any combination. This edition of Bobcat Bulletin features Syully Koroh '21/M'23.

Current City: Cumberland, Md.

Current Occupation: University Advisor in the FSU CAAR Office

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose Frostburg State University because it's close to home, convenient, and affordable. Plus, my credits from Allegany College of Maryland transferred really well, so it was an easy choice and kept me moving forward without any setbacks.

Which faculty and/or staff member influenced you as a student?

A lot of faculty and staff have influenced me during my time as a student. Among them, my TRIO-SSS advisor, Tam Lowry '91/M'01, was especially important because she always had so much faith in me and helped me strategically plan my classes each semester. My psychology department advisor, Dr. Mike Murtagh, was also a big support throughout my academic journey. Dr. Paul Bernhardt was always encouraging and supportive and pushed me to further my education.

What is your favorite memory as a student?

My favorite memory as a student has been getting to meet and connect with many people, especially since I'm not originally from this area. It made the campus feel a lot more familiar and comfortable for me. Also, getting several scholarships has been a big highlight since it's helped with funding my education.

What advice would you give to a student currently studying your major?

I would say take advantage of the support around you. Don't be afraid to ask questions or connect with your professors and advisors since they can really help guide you. Have conversations with them to help you figure out what you want to do with your degree early on so you're not panicking a semester before graduation. Consider adding a minor or something that complements your degree. It helps strengthen your academic profile and gives you a broader range of knowledge and useful skills that can help you in your career and after college.

Why do you give back (time, talent and/or treasure) to FSU?

I do that because I believe in education and care deeply about it. I want students to know that success is within their reach, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against them. I share my own experiences, including the challenges I faced as a first-generation student and non-native English speaker, and the campus resources I used to help me succeed, hoping they can recognize and use some of those same strategies to support their own success.

Tell us about a class or activity at FSU that has had a surprising effect on your life.

All my counseling-related courses at FSU had a bigger impact on me than I expected. The skills and knowledge I picked up from them really helped shape my interpersonal skills, and I use them a lot in my work as an academic advisor, especially when it comes to communicating with and supporting students.

What is a cause dear to your heart?

I love animals. The Humane Society and animal rescue work are causes that are really close to my heart. I want to be part of helping animals get the care and protection they need and give them a chance at a better life.

What did you do for fun?

I love impromptu trips, watching cultural-related videos on YouTube, and reading. Most of all, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my dog, Georgie.

What three words can you use to describe FSU?

Supportive, inclusive, and affordable.