Open Your Mind and Get Involved: Kyle Kammerle ’18, ‘20DPT
Both as a student and an alumnus, Kyle Kammerle ’18, ‘20DPT, has never shied away from getting involved. While earning his biology degree and before earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Arcadia, Kyle was the President of the Knight Club (Arcadia’s dance club), an orientation leader and ambassador, a Senator for the Student Government Organization (SGO), Co-President of the Honors Program, an Arcadia Blog contributor, and active member of Puro Ritmo (the Latin Dance Club).
After graduating, he served on Arcadia’s Board of Trustees as a Recent Graduate Trustee, and received the Young Alumni Golden Disc for Distinguished Achievement Award in 2023. Kyle is also a Jones Poundstore Society donor because of his leadership giving to The Fund for Arcadia, the University’s annual fund. A now-retired Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, he works as a healthcare professional and teaches at Arcadia as an Adjunct Professor in Physical Therapy and Biology.
Q: How did Arcadia let you be yourself, while supporting you on your personal and professional journey?
A: I think your community plays a large role in allowing you to be yourself. A diverse and welcoming group of people enables you to feel comfortable and helps you unearth your passions and hobbies. The openness on campus gives students the opportunity to live their authentic lives. I learned so much about myself on Arcadia’s campus. Participating in SGO and the Honors Program, run by Helene Klein ‘10M, enabled me to develop my leadership style and how to successfully work with others as part of a team. The mentorship I received on-campus has been invaluable. Dr. Rebecca Craik [Dean Emeritus Rebecca L Craik, PT, PhD, FAPTA] was always a big proponent of my work and efforts, as well as the Biology professors and department. I’m so grateful for their support.
Q: How do you continue to demonstrate pride for Arcadia?
A: I continue to show up to support the University. I think that’s most important as a young alumni. We were recently Arcadia students, and our knowledge, expertise, and dollars can support the current students that are looking to find themselves. I am truly inspired to give back to the institution that gave me so many amazing opportunities. I recently returned to campus for the Class of 2024 Commencement, and that was a full-circle moment for me because the first students I taught were graduating. I look forward to continuing to help the students that come after me.
Q: What important life lessons did you gain from attending Arcadia?
A: I really developed a sense of autonomy and authenticity. Having been included in a very diverse community, I learned more about myself and developed the confidence to insert myself into more experiences that could help me grow. I learned to say “yes” to opportunities. Arcadia has helped me foster an open-mind and desire for sincere inclusivity. Being part of something larger than myself is really important to me. After attending the University, I came out as being a member of the queer community. My educational experience brought me to a space where I could accept myself, and come out. And it felt seamless–the worry wasn’t there about public perception because I had grown so confident in myself. I have Arcadia to thank for that. I’ve recognized that Arcadia has allowed me to hone in on soft skills such as mentorship, empathy, motivation, understanding, all of which I still embody in my everyday life.
Q: What advice would you give to the newest incoming classes?
A: Welcome to one of the most accepting higher education cultures. Arcadia is an awesome place because you meet so many different types of people here coming from all walks of life. I urge you to get involved in the things you’ve always wanted to pursue. There will be support behind you, and now is the time to explore yourself and find what you love. The Arcadia community is here to provide advice and mentorship. Everything is accessible here. Open your mind and run with it!
