By Fatima Magana '22

ALLIANCE- Higher education allows students to further their academic careers, and for administrators like Darrell Gaitor ’10 M’26, residence life coordinator, higher education allows him to pursue his passion for inspiring students.

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“I like that working in residence life allows me to see the students I interact with grow into professionals, accomplishing their goals,” said Gaitor. “I like that I can motivate them, advising them to overcome the challenges that college may throw at them.”

After graduating from Mount Union and exploring different career opportunities, Gaitor realized early in his post-graduate journey that working with students was where his heart belonged. To center his career in education, Gaitor chose to pursue a Master of Education at his alma mater.

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"The University of Mount Union has been a pillar of growth since I first stepped on campus as an undergraduate student-athlete; it offered me invaluable lessons and opportunities for holistic mentorship, experiences that remain dear to me," said Gaitor. "Ultimately, these experiences have driven me to my current role as the residence life coordinator."

Gaitor will culminate his studies in the spring of 2026 and earn educational leadership and an instructional design and technology certificates. However, he likes that everything he is learning in class has been applied to situations at work. 

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"As a staunch supporter of the University of Mount Union’s vision and mission, which offers a 'holistic approach to growth within the learning environment, preparing students for fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship,' I am committed to mentoring students in the same way I was mentored as a young professional and student," added Gaitor.

Therefore, when he graduates with his master’s, Gaitor would like to work as both a higher education administrator and continue working with students directly as an adjunct faculty member.

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To learn more about how to prepare academically to follow your dreams as a higher education professional, visit Mount Union's School of Education.