Mackenzie Longo ’23
Biology/Secondary Education Teaching Certificate

When applying for colleges, Mackenzie Longo had been considering two paths: a degree in music therapy or a bachelor of science in biology where she could also obtain a teaching certificate. Seton Hill University was one of the few schools that offered both options for Mackenzie to consider. After her first visit to campus, she knew Seton Hill was where she wanted to go. 

Ultimately, Mackenzie decided to pursue biology and teaching. Her goal is to become the best teacher she can be for her future students, and she plans to do that by first becoming an expert in the field. “The program at Seton Hill allows me to pursue a bachelor of science degree in biology, giving me more knowledge and lab experience for the classroom I will lead one day, while also obtaining a teaching certificate to acquire the skills and experience I need as a teacher,” says Mackenzie. “In addition to this amazing program, Seton Hill also has a wonderful Honors Program, which I have the opportunity to be a part of. Being in the Honors Program has also been very rewarding because it offers smaller class sizes and there is a lot of opportunity for peer mentorship.”

Mackenzie says it was her peers that gave her the push she needed to become more involved on campus. “I remember being intimidated by the Orientation Leaders my freshman year because of how fun and outgoing they were, and I thought there was no possible way I could do that,” said Mackenzie, “However, my Resident Assistant at the time convinced me to apply, and I was chosen for the position, which has been very rewarding.”

In addition to being an Orientation Leader, Mackenzie also ran for Class Treasurer her first year, which led to her becoming Class President. Despite deciding to focus her education on biology, Mackenzie is still able to pursue her passion for music as she is a member of Una Voce, Seton Hill’s chamber choir. “Being a part of these different student groups has given me so much. I’ve made so many friendships I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. I can’t walk across campus without saying ‘hi’ to someone, which is what I love most about Seton Hill’s community,” says Mackenzie. 

“I’m proud of how much I’ve grown over the past two years, and Seton Hill has played a big role in that,” says Mackenzie, “My goal is to graduate in the honors program and begin my teaching career, wherever that may take me.” Mackenzie says Seton Hill is preparing her for the classroom and teaching the next generation of scientists.