Conversation Clears up College Query

Although originally unsure of where to attend college, Josh Long ’19 soon decided on Mount Mercy.

“My first real exposure to this institution was through my older sister, who is now an upperclassman in nursing,” Long said. “She was one of the main influences that convinced me to apply here.”

Long’s experience with MMU’s biannual Scholarship Day cemented the decision.

“She may not remember it, but the president of the university herself sat down and had about a 15-minute talk with my mother when she came with me."

“She may not remember it, but the president of the university herself sat down and had about a 15-minute talk with my mother when she came with me,” Long said. “After leaving that day, I knew that this is where I would go to school.”

Long has been very active on campus, from Science Club, to Fishing Club, to Bike Club, to the track team, he keeps busy outside of class. He also works for St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids and the Academic Center for Excellence at Mount Mercy.

After graduation, Long plans on attending graduate school for physical therapy. He feels that the openness and support of professors—in both the physical therapy pre-professional program and general courses—will help him get there.

"Beyond the care professors here show about a student’s work in class, they also show a genuine interest in the student as a person," said Long. "They know what your goal after Mount Mercy is and will give you the advice you need to get you to your goal. Students here are lucky to be able to have such solid resources.”

Long is also thankful for the opportunities available to students due to the University’s location to local businesses.

“A city like Cedar Rapids provides for many quality work experience opportunities that may be hard to find or compete for in other cities.”

The people Long has met has made his journey to MMU worth it.

"From my neighbors to my professors, I think the caring nature of the people here is what sets this place apart."

“The people here are some of the nicest people I know. From my neighbors to my professors, I think the caring nature of the people here is what sets this place apart.”