This is part of #EberlysGotTalent, a series from the IUP Eberly College of Business and Information Technology that focuses on students who are involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities.
Meet an Eberly student who takes pride in being an active member of Turning Point USA (TPUSA). John Koval is the vice president and treasurer of IUP's chapter of TPUSA, an organization that strives to educate students on the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited governmentthemotto "Big Government Sucks" says it all. TPUSA is a nationwide organization that occupies over 1,000 college and high school campuses.
John is from West Allegheny, Pennsylvania, and initially attendedanother university,butwas not pleased with his experience. After some encouragement from a few friends anddiscoveringthatIUP is the home of a high-caliber accounting program, John transferredto the IUP Eberly College of Business and Information Technology as an accounting major.
John and another member of TPUSA manned a table at the entrance of the library at the start of this semester.Upon speaking to them,we immediatelysensedtheir dedication and love for the organization. John stood confidently despite the looming suspicion that they could face heavy opposition and disapproval for some of their more aggressive viewpoints and controversial soundbites, such as a sign that they pinned to the wall that read "Socialism Sucks."
"This is my second year in Turning Point. It has really brought light to some of the major issues in America," said John, who firmly believes in a strong work ethic and commitment to integrity. Through his efforts with TPUSA, John hopes to inspire others to have the same drive and honestly.
Since transferring to IUP, John has not looked back."I have had great experiences while being in Eberly. I have made some really good friends that I love being in class with. Along with my friends, I have had some really great professors."
After graduation, John does not plan on continuing his mission with TPUSA in a formal manner. He will, however, always strive to improve his community and country by shedding light on subjects that others find difficult to discuss.
John wants to becomeeitheran accountant auditor for the US government or continue his education in forensic accounting.He feels that his experiences with TPUSA and in Eberly have prepared him for the workforce and equipped him to properly deal with any adversity that comes across his path.
About #EberlysGotTalent
The #EberlysGotTalent series features students who are involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities. Associate Dean Cyndy Strittmatter is overseeing the project. "We are proud of our students who balance their academics with extracurricular activities and recognize the commitment that it takes to excel at all levels. We look forward to sharing their accomplishments with the IUP community and beyond!"
Written by Tyler Vicari