The first year of college is often the hardest. Students are adjusting to new academic expectations, new routines, and the first stretch of independence after high school. Only a portion of first‑year students earn dean’s list recognition nationwide, which makes Isabelle Mecklin’s accomplishment at Long Island University a strong start to her academic path.
Mecklin, a 2025 graduate of Two Harbors High School, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in medical imaging. The field is commonly offered as a two‑year certification, but she chose the four‑year program to build a broader foundation for her career. Her mother, Erin Mecklin, said Isabelle was drawn to LIU because she wanted to try something different after graduation.
The university’s equestrian team also became an important part of her first year on campus, giving her a way to stay active and connected while adjusting to life far from home.
Erin said the family is proud of her accomplishment and excited to see where the program leads her. She shared that Isabelle has enjoyed both her coursework and her involvement with the equestrian team during her first year at LIU.
The North Shore Journal would like to feature more local alumni and the paths they are taking after high school. Parents, grandparents, godparents, aunts, uncles, and any alumni fans are invited to share updates about their students, whether they are in college, the trades, the military, or the workforce. Send information and a photo to sarahwritesnsj@yahoo.com.
