Schuylkill Speaks! Graduating Student Profiles: Stephan Spolski
Editor's note: This story is part of a series profiling exceptional members of Penn State Schuylkill’s graduating class. For more stories like Spolski's, visit Schuylkill Speaks! The series is written by Renee Paetzell, a fourth-year Penn State Schuylkill student majoring in human resources with a minor in corporate communications.
Schuylkill Haven, Pa. — The day Stephan Spolski started classes at Penn State Schuylkill, he said everything changed. He discovered a place where he could not only grow academically but also feel supported by highly regarded faculty and a welcoming staff. From the start, it was clear that the professors were dedicated to student success, offering engaging, interactive class settings, valuable research opportunities and enriching out-of-class activities. It was exactly the kind of environment he had been searching for.
Throughout his time at Penn State Schuylkill, Spolski became deeply involved on campus, both academically and socially. He served as a tutor, academic peer mentor and lab assistant — roles that allowed him to strengthen his knowledge while helping others. As treasurer of Tri Beta, the National Biological Honor Society, he gained leadership experience. His participation in clubs like the Health Professions Club, Student Advisory Committee, Ski Club, Pickleball Club and Criminal Justice Club further enriched his college experience. These activities helped him build lasting relationships with peers and foster strong connections with faculty and staff, making him feel even more at home in this supportive community.
Through a combination of firsthand experience and independent research, Spolski gained a deeper understanding of both the medical and scientific fields. He had the opportunity to shadow orthopedic surgeries with Integrated Surgical Specialists in Leesport, under the mentorship of orthopedic physicians Jason Phillips, Mark Brayford and Nate Tiedeken. Their exceptional skills and mastery in the operating room solidified his decision to attend medical school with a focus on orthopedics.
In addition to clinical exposure, Spolski conducted academic research on a chemical compound called 2,3-diaryl-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-4H-1,3-thiazin-2-one and related reactions, exploring its potential antifungal and antiparasitic properties for pharmaceutical use. He is currently investigating the psychological effects of opiate addiction in college student-athletes following orthopedic surgery, focusing on physiological dependence and withdrawal. These experiences have significantly contributed to his academic growth and reinforced his career goals, he said.
Spolski chose to major in biology because of his strong interest in pursuing a career in the medical field — a passion sparked by his own experience undergoing six orthopedic surgeries due to football-related injuries. Foundational courses in biology, chemistry and anatomy resonated with him, aligning with his goals to understand the human body and its complexities. One of his most memorable experiences was the ecological sciences lab with Associate Professor Lucas Redmond, where exploring the woods brought the subject matter to life in an engaging, hands-on way.
Throughout his time at Penn State Schuylkill, Spolski received incredible support from both faculty and staff. Darlene Young and Michael Verhagen played crucial roles in making his transition from University Park to Schuylkill seamless, offering guidance and support when he needed it most. He also had the privilege of learning from who he referred to as remarkable professors during his first semester, including Lucas Redmond, Sarah Princiotta, Mary Ann Smith, Michael Gallis, Michele Duffey and Martin John Fay. Their mentorship, Spolski said, was instrumental in helping him navigate his academic and personal development.
Looking back, Spolski reflected on what he will miss most about Penn State Schuylkill.
“I will miss the dedicated faculty and staff who work hard every day for students to receive the best possible learning experience, in and out of the classroom. Penn State Schuylkill is a family,” he said.
Q: What is your favorite Penn State Schuylkill memory?
Spolski: The first-ever pickleball tournament for the pickleball club was a tremendous success and it was an enjoyable time organizing and participating in the event. Acting as treasurer for the club, I was quite nervous about the turnout, but we had substantial numbers and everyone enjoyed it.
Q: As a soon-to-be Penn State Schuylkill graduate, what advice would you give to an incoming student?
Spolski: Get involved. Get to know your faculty. Introduce yourself and talk to them. Become a tutor. Find research opportunities with faculty. Join a club. And make the most of your time at Schuylkill.
