Unimportant Questions: Phil Ruthkosky, Associate Dean of Student Development

Alyssa Stencavage, Staff Writer

January 30, 2012

What does your job entail?

I oversee student development and all the planning and activities that go along with that. I am also adviser to Student Development and de facto adviser to all campus clubs and organizations, mostly for support.

What is No. 1 on your bucket list?

I have a weird fascination with sharks. So I would say to cage dive with a great white shark, but it would have to be a really strong cage.

What is your favorite part about Wilkes?

Building relationships with students and colleagues that are selfless in their approach, who want to help the students and watch them grow as well.

What is your favorite hobby?

I like to exercise — as in walking — riding my bike and jogging. I also enjoy trout fishing.

What is your favorite book or movie?

A movie that I’ve seen numerous times would be “Braveheart.” I enjoy classic books, such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.”

What is your favorite favorite part about your job?

One of my favorable aspects of my job is my involvement in student life. I really get to know the students as individuals and watch them grow over the years.

How old were you when you got your first job and what was it?

I was 14. I worked on a horse farm, loading hay, feeding cows, cutting grass and whatever the owner of the ranch wanted me to do.

As Dean of Student Development, can you give any information about any upcoming events or activities?

We publish the entire schedule at the Info Desk and online. This Sunday, Jan. 29, there is a trip to Great Wolfe Lodge. On Feb. 4 there will be a snow tubing trip at Sno Mountain Ski Resort. Winter Weekend will be taking place Feb. 24-25, and on March 31, there will be a trip to see Michael Jackson Cirque de Soleil.

What do you find is the best way for you to relax after a long day at work?

It would be just enjoying a nice, quiet dinner with my wife.

Where is your favorite vacationing spot?

Aruba. It is a very beautiful island.

What has been your greatest or worst experience at Wilkes so far?

Skydiving was a great experience that really took me out of my comfort zone.

What is your favorite television show?

I am intrigued by the National Geographic Channel, so anything on that channel. I enjoy nature and wildlife.

What advice can you give to the students here at Wilkes?

As you get ready to get on that path toward your ultimate career, try to find a balance between school and work, and family and friends, and don’t neglect one or the other.

About the Contributor

Alyssa Stencavage, L&A&E Editor

Alyssa Stencavage is a junior communications studies major at Wilkes University with concentrations in broadcast media and public relations, as well as a minor in marketing. She began her time at The Beacon as a freshman in 2011, when she worked as a staff writer and became the assistant life editor at the start of her sophomore year. She currently is campus life editor. During her sophomore year, she participated in an independent study with the Times Leader, and was also involved with an account team on the Zebra Communication Board during her junior year. She also works with the Wilkes television station, Wilkes Now. Before coming to Wilkes, she wrote for her high school newspaper, while also playing volleyball and running track. Outside of school, Alyssa works as a cashier at a local grocery store and is the oldest of three children. She enjoys listening to music, taking walks and spending time with family and friends. Alyssa believes her experience with The Beacon has improved her as a writer and will help her achieve success beyond her years at Wilkes. In the future, she would like to be an anchor at a local television station.