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Jeffrey Cochran, a senior majoring in Criminal Justice, joined the Kent State Recreation and Wellness Services team in Summer 2025. Previously serving as a Lifeguard in Aquatics over the summer, Jeffrey serves as one of our Student Personnel Assistants and helps with New Hire Orientation monthly training for staff. After joining the club's Swim Team during his first year at Kent State, Jeffrey found himself surrounded by his friends and a welcoming environment, which pushed him to take on a role here. 

Jeffrey’s role allows him to remain consistent and focused on his studies while balancing the responsibilities of student employment with academic coursework. His responsibilities have played an important role in supporting his academic success. He is held accountable for his time management habits when needed to follow a schedule and stay on his toes. Keeping him disciplined and productive rather than falling into unstructured routines, he says, has given him the consistency that’s translated to multiple appearances on the Dean’s List. 

Apart from time management, Jeffrey acknowledges RecWell for helping him understand professional work culture in preparation for his post-graduate lifestyle. Through his role as a Student Personnel Assistant, he has become familiar with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams, the DSE student employee scheduling and organization system, and general workplace expectations, while also developing skills in communication, critical thinking, and technology. These skills will prove their significance in any future career path, especially in the field of Criminal Justice. It has been important for Jeffrey to have responsibilities outside of the classroom given him a mental break from the intensity of coursework, preventing burnout, and promoting dedication. 

Jeffrey has received positive reinforcement from his supervisor, making a lasting impact on his experience. Receiving positive feedback from his supervisor, Jeff Kingery, has reinforced his confidence and reminded him that his efforts are impactful. 

He also credits Kingery for recognizing his work ethic and helping him better understand what it takes to succeed professionally, reflecting how he carries himself in the workplace.

Beyond RecWell, Jeffrey previously served as president of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, now holding the role of Treasurer, continuing his commitment to leadership and the Greek organization’s values of excellence. As a member of the Club Swim Team, Jeffrey competed in Club Nationals in Indianapolis, where he won his heat and proudly represented Kent State in his victory. 

As Jeff prepares to leave Kent State, he offers purposeful advice to new Student Personnel Assistants and Specialists. Treat this job as you would like for your future career. He says, “not many college students get the privilege to develop professionally like this early on,” as he did. Jeff emphasizes that taking full advantage of the role can set the foundation for long-term success. 

Fun fact: Jeff grew up in Texas and Louisiana, something he jokes makes him a true “Southern boy.”