David J. Seale
International Vice President - Division I
"Community college is a great place for new beginnings."
David Seale, International Vice President - Division I, knows this from personal experience.
David's adopted father was terminally ill during his high school years, and his grades suffered as a result. "I spent much of my time after school in one hospital waiting room or another. As a result, I did not pay as much attention to my schoolwork as I should have, and I barely graduated. After working for a couple of years, I realized that a quality education was indispensable." His performance in high school and his financial situation led him to County College of Morris in Randolph, New Jersey. "I enrolled in the most vigorous courses I could, and developed strong friendships with a small group of motivated individuals like myself. I was surprised to realize that my classes challenged me, my professors supported me, and the atmosphere allowed me to grow not only as a student, but as a leader, and as a person as well."
His new educational goals translated into a decision to accept membership in Phi Theta Kappa.
"I wanted the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and to find more ways to engage my community outside of the classroom. I was not familiar with Phi Theta Kappa when I was invited to join, but after receiving my invitation I discussed the details of the society with my chapter's officers. After learning more about Phi Theta Kappa, and spending some time with the Honors Study Topic Guide, I felt that membership would be a really enriching supplement to my education."
"The major challenge for community college students today is the economy," David believes. He has seen the effect of budget cuts and explosive enrollments in his state and at his college. He is also concerned about U.S. higher education in general, especially about the nation's job market. "Economic trends moving more jobs overseas, in conjunction with a growing number of college graduates, could result in an excess of American graduates unable to find employment."
David is the youngest member of a close-knit family. His father's death and his family's financial struggles have made him especially close to his mother, three older sisters, and older brother. He also enjoys spending time with his nieces and nephews. His other interests include reading, running, and lacrosse.
David has served as president of the Middle States Region and as president of his college's Student Government Association. He has received his college's Distinguished Leader Award, Campus Life Scholar/Leader Award and Board of Trustees Service Award, and several scholarships. David plans to work in the developing countries of South America and use his second language, Spanish, to develop and engineer sustainable communities. He wants eventually to work for the State Department. An international studies major, David will major in international development after transfer.
