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My Manchester Story

Braydon Hoggatt

by Kaitlyn Estep | Jul 24, 2023

Tell us about yourself!

I’m an incoming sophomore with majors in business management and educational studies. On top of that, I am looking to add a music minor. I am a firm believer in the three big parts of life – family, friends, and, of course, board games! When I’m not spending time with my family or friends, you’ll definitely find me at a card table playing board games. While the classics like Monopoly, Sorry or Life are always fun, my true love for board games lies with the more complex ones like Wingspan, Scythe or MTG (Magic: The Gathering).

 

What are you involved in on campus?

While on campus, I am an active member of the varsity tennis team, A Cappella Choir, Chamber Singers, American Chemical Society, College of Business Club, Manchester Aspiring Educators, STAT and the Honors Program.

 

Why did you choose Manchester University?

I chose Manchester for a couple of reasons. The first is the size. I come from a very small town in Indiana called Union City. I felt like Manchester just offered me a chance to be at home while not being at home. The second reason I chose Manchester was the way that everyone made me feel welcome. Throughout the course of my senior year in high school, I had numerous professors, coaches and admissions staff reach out with personal letters that just made me feel like I was a part of their family, and I hadn’t even decided to attend there yet.

 

What do you see yourself doing after Manchester?

After Manchester, I plan on entering the education field as a business teacher and slowly working my way into high school administration. Once I reach an administrative position, I plan to work my way into education politics at the state level in hopes of helping rework the current system into something that can become the future of our state.

 

Tell us about your community involvement in your hometown of Union City.

Over the course of my life, I have been a part of some amazing activities and events in my hometown of Union City, Indiana. As a son of two very impactful educators in my community, I was always able to tag along and work on some incredible projects. Union City is home to many unique events like State Line Heritage Days, A Community Christmas, or our community Thanksgiving. I can proudly say that I have been a part of these as long as I can remember. Whether it meant volunteering insane hours to help put on a truly jaw-dropping Christmas display or bringing my love for acting to the people on stage for our yearly melodramas, my community involvement resume is seemingly endless.

 

How have you been spending your summer?

This summer, I have had the privilege to work as a grant writer at my old high school. Through this opportunity, I have learned the ins and outs of the administrative side of a school. Besides that, I’ve been doing yard work, remodeling bathrooms, playing tennis, and playing several rounds of golf.

 

What advice would you give to an incoming Manchester student?

If I had to give any advice to an incoming Manchester student, I’d tell them not to be afraid to put themselves out there. Looking back on my first year, I’ve realized that my whole first semester seemed to be wasted because I was too afraid to go out and meet new people. Once I broke out of my shell, I met some amazing people who have made my time at Manchester so much more worthwhile. The sooner you put yourself out there, the sooner you’ll be able to get the full Manchester experience!

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