Dear Spartan: Wisdom and Reflections from Graduating Senior Ian Hall
At York College of Pennsylvania, we believe that every Spartan's journey is filled with lessons worth sharing. As part of our Dear Spartan project, six graduating seniors — representing a wide variety of majors and experiences — wrote letters to future students, offering reflections, advice, and encouragement. Their words capture the heart of what it means to be a Spartan.
Name: Ian Hall
Major: Supply Chain Operations Management
Hometown: Dillsburg, PA
Dear Spartan,
As you prepare to begin your journey at York College, I want to offer you a few reflections from someone who’s just about to turn the tassel. In many ways, it feels like I was in your shoes only yesterday—wide-eyed, uncertain, but eager to begin. If I could share one message with you as you step into this new chapter, it would be this: take chances.
Take chances in the classroom—speak up, explore subjects outside your major, and dive into projects that challenge you. Say yes to the club you’re curious about, the speaker event you weren’t planning to attend, or the leadership role that feels just slightly out of reach. Push past hesitation, and you’ll be amazed by how much you grow.
Take chances outside the classroom, too. Whether you’re playing a sport, joining an intramural team, or just showing up to an open gym night, don’t underestimate the value of movement, camaraderie, and shared goals. Let yourself experience the joy of being part of something bigger—of belonging.
Take chances socially. Strike up conversations, go to events, and attend the random group dinner invitation. York is filled with people you haven’t met yet who may just become lifelong friends, mentors, or colleagues. And yes—go out. Go to the parties, visit Jackson Street, stop by Murph’s, and explore downtown. Even if it’s not your usual scene, try it at least once. There’s something meaningful about those nights out—laughing with friends, meeting new faces, making memories that live outside of classrooms and schedules. Be open. Be bold.
Yes, doing all of this—academics, involvement, relationships—can seem overwhelming. But I promise you, it’s possible. You can balance your studies with an internship, join a club or two, stay active, and still make time for fun. College isn’t about doing just one thing well—it’s about discovering how much you’re capable of when you say yes to more than you thought you could handle.
One final piece of advice: build relationships. Get to know your professors—they’re more than lecturers; they’re mentors and future references. Connect with classmates, teammates, and coworkers. The network you build here will carry far beyond graduation.
So, take chances. Say yes. Be present. And don’t be afraid to go all in—because this place, these people, and this time in your life have more to offer than you can imagine.
Wishing you courage, joy, and discovery in every step ahead.
Warmly,
Ian Hall
This is Part 1 of our six-part Dear Spartan series. Part 2 is written by Chase Hellwig, a Mass Communications, Communication & Writing major.
