MARIETTA, OHIO (July 18, 2019)—Tanner Palmer has a strong connection with Washington State College of Ohio that dates back to his time in junior high. Today, when he’s not in the classroom, the Massage Therapy student stays connected through his involvement with Phi Theta Kappa, Student Council, Music Club, Social Services Club, and serves as a Student Ambassador. Those strong ties, combined with his exemplary academic performance have earned him the designation of July Student of the Month.
Palmer’s affiliation with WSCO began with his involvement in the Educational Talent Search (ETS) program when he was in the 8th grade at Eastern Middle School in Reedsville, Ohio. ETS is a national program designed to identify and assist individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. It provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. Donna Muntz, Director of College Access and ETS has a fond recollection of Palmer. “Tanner was an excellent student who was a strong participant in Educational Talent Search. He regularly attended school sessions with his advisor and went on multiple ETS trips and college visits. He is always friendly and willing to help anyone that needs it. I hope ETS played a role in his postsecondary success at WSCO in the Massage Therapy program.”
After his high school graduation, Tanner Palmer wanted to get some life experience and decided to delay enrolling in college. He is candid in admitting, however, that this interruption did not provide what he expected. He offers wise advice to others considering postponing college after high school. “Don’t wait. Go while high school and all that knowledge is fresh in your mind. The mind prunes information if you don’t use it enough.” Fortunately, his mind retained enough to ensure strong academic performance, as evidenced by his 3.6 grade point average (GPA).
“Tanner is a great student,” said Brent DeWees, Massage Therapy program coordinator. “The thing that set him apart is his willingness to help. He arrives to lab before anyone else, puts away the laundry and puts sheets on all of the tables, not just his own. He is always willing to do anything asked or needed. I have several who are great students, but none with Tanner’s willingness to serve others.”
Later this month, Palmer will graduate from the program and will have to decide whether to begin his career as a massage therapist or continue his education to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher. While he has not yet come to a decision, he said he feels confident about his future prospects.
