Class of 2023: Joel Afata Molete

Joel Afata Molete is a Computer Science and French major with a minor in Business Administration from Manchester, Pennsylvania.

When I took my first step on the Hill, I was: I was excited to take on a new opportunity in my life. I was not sure what I wanted to do.

The me who will ring the Old Main bell on Commencement Day is: Excited to graduate, confident, and hopeful for the future.

Real world experiences: As a French major, I was able to get the French experience by living in the French house here at McDaniel where speaking French was mandatory. This is also my favorite experience.

My aha moment: That I like keeping to myself for the most part.

Footprints I’m leaving on the Hill: A good friend, respectful and hardworking student, good member of the men’s soccer team, an impactful resident assistant.

Faculty or staff member who most influenced who I have become: Steve Corrieri, the men’s soccer head coach.

Best class ever: The QuickBooks Jan Term course, because I learned how to manage my own or someone else’s business using QuickBooks accounting software.

Took me totally by surprise: Covid-19.

My favorite spot on campus: The Pub because it is quite interactive, you can sit there and do work while you eat, and even socialize if you want to.

Most mind-boggling idea I learned at McDaniel: That McDaniel College is 156 years old. Established in 1867, it was known as Western Maryland College until 2002 when it was renamed McDaniel College in honor of an alum who gave a lifetime of service to the college.

My capstone title: CavApp.

What it’s about in plain talk: It’s a Chap Application.

Tell us a little about your activities, including sports, during your years at McDaniel: During my years at McDaniel College, I was an active member of the men’s soccer team, playing as a striker. Moreover, I worked for intramurals under the supervision of Stephen Corrieri, this year I am working for ResLife as a residential assistant for one of the freshmen buildings.

What’s next: I am still in the applications process, I might consider traveling, and I am not planning on attending grad school straight after college. I plan on getting further IT certifications.

If you received financial aid, what did that mean for you and your family? Receiving financial aid meant a lot for me and my family, it made attending McDaniel College easier by being a great financial relief.

How will you stay connected to McDaniel? I have friends that will still be attending McDaniel College, so I will be visiting often.