From athletics to study abroad to multiple majors, Tyler Hartl ’24 has made the most of his time at LVC, proving that resilience and a positive mindset can lead to success in and out of the classroom.

An injury near the end of his sophomore year of high school left Hartl unsure he would even be able to play football at the college level. Now, he’s begun his final year of undergraduate study and his last season on the field as a Dutchman.

“There have been many highs and lows since my initial injury; however, my outlook on life has changed,” said Hartl. “I’ve learned to be resilient and patient. My journey has indeed yet to go as I envisioned. It wasn’t until the beginning of my junior season that I played in a game, almost three years after my last.”

Four knee surgeries later, Hartl has had to build himself back up several times. That perseverance has extended to his academics as well. He began as a Business Administration major but has since added International Business, Marketing, and a French concentration.

“Becoming a triple major was not what I envisioned as an undergrad. The decision to add majors resulted from finding more interests as I took additional courses. I feel each of these disciplines are immensely valuable to my personal growth and education, which has made my time at LVC all the more fulfilling,” said Hartl, who also works as a resident assistant on campus.

Hartl has even taken his studies abroad with a summer business program in Maastricht, Netherlands, studying Business in the European Union and Intercultural Communication. Students studying in Maastricht have opportunities to visit large corporations and NATO headquarters. He says his newfound interest in global affairs and international relations opened many opportunities for him, such as his internship with the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg.

“I began my internship with the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg after returning from Maastricht,” Hartl said. “The World Affairs Council of Harrisburg is an independent, nonprofit organization focused on global learning and supporting future world leaders. My biggest takeaway was that I have a voice; with that, I can be a vehicle for the change I want to see in the world. I can also use my abilities to empower others, which was a lesson I won’t forget.”

Hartl is exploring multiple paths post-graduation, including pursuing a graduate degree. While he’s still determining where his career will take him, he looks forward to continuing to grow as a global citizen.