Lola Offenback ’26 helps an incoming student with a writing assignment during Moravian University's Advance into Moravian (AIM) summer bridge program which provides a sample experience of the expectations of college courses and campus life.
Lola Offenback is pursuing a major in English writing arts with a minor in mass media marketing. She grew up in Wallington, New Jersey. “I wasn’t born there,” she says, “but I consider it my hometown because of its deep influence on me as I was growing up. Wallington is only one square mile and is a community where everyone knows everyone, even if you’ve never spoken to each other before. This familiarity always provided me with a sense of comfort and support throughout my education. My hometown experience is a large part of the reason I chose Moravian. I felt the same sense of community and support when I became a Greyhound.”
Why did you choose to study English?
As a child, I dove into literature and wanted to have the same impact on others that authors had on me. This morphed into an interest in writing, and as I have navigated college, my passions have been driven toward multiple different communications and media studies.
What activities are you involved in?
I am the editor-in-chief and president of The Manuscript [Moravian’s literary magazine], assistant editor of The Comenian (our student-run newspaper), and vice president of the Swiftie Society. In addition, I am a writing fellow and consultant in the writing center, and a RISE leadership program member and ambassador. I’m also a member of Phi Beta Delta, Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Alpha Alpha, and Omicron Delta Kappa honor societies.
Tell us about one of the best experiences you’ve had at Moravian University.
It’s difficult to pick one defining moment that stands out as the best experience I’ve had at Moravian, but I would say writing for The Comenian has been the highlight of my time here. I have been able to develop a passion for journalism that I didn’t know I had before beginning college, and our newsroom is where I have developed friendships that will last far beyond my graduation.
What have you discovered about yourself since you’ve been at Moravian?
During my time at Moravian, I have discovered my confidence. While I am by no means a super-outgoing person, I’ve learned how to carry myself and speak confidently. I used to be the quietest person in the room, but now I find I am much more confident in my ability to hold a conversation, enter a discussion, and take advantage of opportunities.
Share something about yourself that may surprise people.
I had an odd obsession with mushroom decor/artwork!
What is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Comenian office in Zinzendorf Hall. With the HUB now under construction, and even before construction, this office acted as my home base on campus. As a commuter, I don’t have a space on campus that is entirely my own. In the Comenian office, I find the perfect mix of fun and focus. I can meet up and chat with friends while sitting on our couches, I’m near the offices of all the English Department staff, which makes it super easy to pop in and ask a quick question, and I can sit down and focus on my studies at our desks. I am also right next to the Writing Center, where I work, and I often make last-minute appointments with consultants who have open time slots.
What is your favorite college tradition?
I love to “Hound ’em!” whenever I get the chance! It is such a simple and fun way to express that I am a Greyhound.
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not studying?
When I’m not studying, I’m either working out or hanging with friends. I also want to start hiking more.
What book, film, song, or piece of art do you find unforgettable?
The song “Roslyn” by Bon Iver and St. Vincent is one of my all-time favorite songs and is a piece of music in which I could spend forever finding more meaning. It is a song that travels with me through all phases of my life, and I continue to listen to, relate to, and understand this song differently as I grow and change.
Who inspires you?
My mom and grandma both inspire me to be the best person that I can. They are my twin pillars, without which I cannot stand. I have watched my mother persevere through hardships, and I admire her greatly for coming out on the other side as such an incredibly strong woman. My grandmother has always sacrificed to support me, whether she is cooking dinner after a long day or helping with other tasks.
Share something that makes you happy.
My cat Boogie always puts a smile on my face!