08/20/2026
“I grew up in St. Joseph, Michigan, and graduated from Berrien Springs High School in 2024, following in the footsteps of several family members who are also alumni. During high school, I was involved in baseball, tennis, and marching band while dual-enrolling at LMC. Taking online classes through the college gave me a head start on college and made the transition after graduation feel seamless. After visiting campus, Lake Michigan College felt like home, and I knew it was where I wanted to continue my education.
I enrolled at LMC in the fall of 2024 as a history major and challenged myself to become as involved in college as I had been in high school. In 2025, I joined the Jazz Band, continuing to play the trumpet, an instrument I've loved since fifth grade. I also found my place in Student Senate after spotting a flyer on campus. During my first year, I was elected secretary, allowing me to learn from experienced student leaders before serving as president the following year. Through Student Senate and the Model Illinois Government program, I discovered a passion for leadership, collaboration, and public service.
One of the most influential experiences of my life came before I started college. During my senior year of high school, I earned a spot in the All-American D-Day Band, performing at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., before traveling to France to perform at the Brittany American Cemetery, Omaha Beach, and in Paris. That experience deepened my fascination with American history and inspired my dream of one day working in our nation’s capital, for the Library of Congress or another federal agency.
This fall, I'll continue that journey at Michigan State University, where I'll study history while hoping to become involved in the Marching or Jazz Bands and Student Government.
If I could give future students one piece of advice, it would be to find something that genuinely interests you and pursue it. College is one of the few times in life when countless opportunities are right in front of you. Step outside your comfort zone, get involved, and embrace experiences that will shape the person you become.”
-Jonathan Orlando
2026 LMC graduate
