5X����

When Evan Coates took on his role as an Operations Assistant at Kent State’s Recreation and Wellness Services in 2022, his decision was initially practical. Commuting convenience led him to apply within the department after originally considering the Tri-Rec location. Nonetheless, after his experience with the culture and building connections within RecWell, he quickly found his place.

“I saw myself here, especially at the Kent State of Well-being,” Coates says.

During his time at Kent State, Evan began serving as an Operations Assistant, later becoming an Operations Supervisor. He also took on the role of a Certified Peer Educator with Kent State of Wellbeing. Furthermore, he stayed involved as the first Well-being Officer for the Student RecWell Council (SRC). Balancing multiple leadership roles while pursuing his Bachelor’s in Public Health with a minor in Healthcare Systems Management was no small task. Still, he succeeded academically after graduating in May 2025, keeping a GPA above 3.5. 

“It was challenging at times juggling both positions,” Evan said, “But it’s all about learning to manage your time and putting in the work.” He found that the administrators were incredibly supportive as far as hours of flexibility, so he could give his full effort in all positions. 

Evan shared that his most memorable part of working in the Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center was the community. Getting to build invaluable friendships and interact with different departments made his experience here worthwhile, as he was able to make lifelong friends. 

Today, Evan Coates serves as a Service Excellence Ambassador for the Grant Medical Center – a Level 1 trauma center. He manages front desk operations and supports patients and visitors during critical moments. Through RecWell, he felt better prepared to approach many stressful situations professionally. 

There are many skills that he fostered during his experience at RecWell, “Working in operations taught me customer service and multitasking,” Evan added. “Kent State of Well-being especially taught me empathy. Learning to actively listen, pause, and understand that people may go through a troubling time.”

For current students, even outside of the RecWell department, Evan offers uplifting advice: “Networking is the prep for everything,” he says. “Create a five-year plan, practice your interview skills a lot, and use your research.” With all the wise words about preparation and connection, he also adds that it is crucial not to skip researching the company, even talking to current employees if you can. 

What does being a Former Flash mean to you?

Evan jokes about being seen as “Kent State’s biggest fan”. He views his time at Kent State as a personal achievement and a foundation for continued growth. He is proud to be a Golden Flash.