By Cole Byerly ’26, co-editor-in-chief
During her time at LVC, Marina Biltcliff, senior political science and English double major, built a college experience with involvement, leadership and a consistent presence across campus life, while preparing for a future in higher education.
Biltcliff’s list of involvement shows just how active she has been. She served in Student Government as executive board treasurer and took on a leadership role in the Student Programming Board as vice president of ValleyFest. She worked as a resident assistant, an orientation leader, a Breen Center student worker, a Center for Student Engagement student worker and contributed to “La Vie Collegienne” as a co-editor-in-chief. She was also involved in community service initiatives across campus.
Her motivation to get involved started simply.
“I wanted to get involved to meet new people,” she said. “I really liked my orientation leaders and that helped me get involved. I ran for student government because I had nothing to lose.”
Out of all her experiences, orientation stands out the most.
“I really love orientation and helped set the tone for what my college career would look like. I helped with orientation for the next 3 years,” she said.
Some of her most memorable moments came during campus events. Dutchmen Day and ValleyFest weekend her senior year stood out. Even with unpredictable weather during ValleyFest, she said the event still had a strong turnout and positive student engagement.
“Dutchmen Day and ValleyFest weekend this year were very successful,” she said. “People really liked the theme and activities we had planned.”
Her involvement also helped her realize her future plans. Biltcliff plans to pursue a career in higher education, specifically in residence life or student engagement. She said she didn’t fully realize those paths existed until she experienced them through her roles on campus.
“I realized how much I enjoy it and how there are career opportunities in those fields,” she said. “Without being involved on campus I would not have so many of the friendships and professional connections I have now. That’s why I want to work in higher ed, to encourage students to get involved in some way to build those connections.”
As she prepares to graduate, Biltcliff leaves behind a campus experience of consistent involvement and leadership that she hopes to carry into her career.