Emma Pohl’s college life began online as it did for her classmates, but when allowed to be on the Stanislaus State campus, the Hughson High School product wasted no time.
“I decided I needed to get involved,” said Pohl who knew few students when she arrived.
She joined Phi Mu Fraternity, and it changed her life. In addition to finding her best friends, the psychology major found something in herself.
“I grew exponentially in the leadership positions I held,” Pohl said.
She served as Phi Mu’s academic chairwoman and honor chairwoman and was president of the College Panhellenic Association, a board that oversees the national sororities at Stan State. All of those roles led to Pohl becoming involved in more leadership positions, including serving on Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Board of Directors for Student Organizations.
Being a part of the fraternity and ASI inspired Pohl to do more. She and some friends founded Bookworms, a Stan State book club.
“All of these wonderful opportunities would have never happened if I never took the first step of getting involved on campus,” Pohl said. “Meeting people here can change your world and flip it upside down in the best way possible.”
Among those who took note of Pohl’s activities was Julie Anaya, coordinator for student organizations and fraternity/sorority life.
“Emma’s extensive involvement within her sorority, Phi Mu and the Bookworms club, coupled with her invaluable support for more than 60 student organizations in planning and executing their events, demonstrate her exceptional leadership skills and dedication to community building,” Anaya said.
“Her instrumental role in assisting numerous student organizations with event planning and execution speaks volumes about her organizational prowess and her capacity to support the broader campus community.”
Pohl isn’t done working to enhance the college experience for Stan State students. She plans to pursue a Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology through Alliant International University’s online program.
Remaining in the area, she wants to stay connected to Stan State.
“I plan to use my degree to improve life in our area by continuing to give back to Stan State’s diverse population of students and organizational leadership,” Pohl said. “I hope to continue my work at Stan State by enhancing engagement opportunities and promoting leadership as a career.”
#StanGrad File
Name
Emma Pohl
Hometown
Hughson, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in kinesiology
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“The memories that stand out the most from my time at Stanislaus State are joining Phi Mu Fraternity, while getting to know the wonderful ladies of Panhellenic and holding leadership positions in my sorority, as well as working for the Office of Student Leadership, Engagement and Belonging (SLEB) as a student assistant and the student events intern.”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“Julie Anaya, the current SLEB student organizations and fraternity/sorority life coordinator, exemplifies many traits that I look up to in a leader. She knows how to uplift women and people from all backgrounds and is the best boss, giving room to make mistakes and freedom to be creative. She’s taught me what my potential is, and I will never forget it.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“Meet new people and get out of your comfort zone. Joining a student club or organization can help you make connections. Not only will this make your college experience more fulfilling by being surrounded by like-minded individuals, but it will also assist you professionally in the future.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2024. Read more StanGrad profiles.
