WilmU One-on-One: 2025 Graduate Abigail Hammer-Rupp Discusses Her Experiences in the M.S. in Digital Communication Program 

Abigail Hammer-Rupp was a 2025 commencement speaker for the WilmU College of Technology, Graduate Programs Ceremony. She earned her B.S. in Web Design, summa cum laude, from the University in 2024 and quickly followed that up with earning her M.S. in Digital Communication.

A volunteer communications intern with the Childhood Cancer Society, she recently accepted a position with Diamond Kingz Jewelry in Lewes, Delaware, where she is helping launch a new store location. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, she finds strength and joy through the love and support of her husband, their two dogs and a spirited three-legged rescue cat.  

Q: Can you tell us about your WilmU journey and what prompted you to choose the M.S. in Digital Communication program? 

I started my WilmU journey a few years ago when I pursued a B.S. in Web Design. I graduated summa cum laude and was inducted into Epsilon Pi Tau, an honor society for technology. I came to WilmU because it offered many online advantages for my degree. My experience was great. The University even awarded me scholarships to aid my financial burden while attending.  

While finishing up my bachelor’s program, I began hearing about the new master’s program in Digital Communication, and the concentration in web design seemed like a great fit. I already had a B.A. in English, so it really seemed to pair well with both of my degrees. Plus, I like to think I have the gift of gab! 

Q: Did you have a favorite course and/or instructor? 

Tough question. My favorite courses are those that offer hybrid opportunities. I like remote learning, but having a classroom setting, as well, cultivates deeper relationships and encourages communication about the information that is being studied.   

My favorite professor is Nick Maccari. I really enjoy his hands-on learning opportunities. He would bring in “classic” computerized gadgets to help further understanding on things like computer coding concepts. He also created his own videos for weekly resources about the material.  

My favorite online professor is Timothy Day. I really enjoyed his encouragement and creativity in today’s technologically driven world. He also was able to use Kaltura Capture to really aid in providing feedback on assignments, providing personalized quick video-recorded messages.   

Q: Did you have any meaningful hands-on learning experiences or opportunities to apply what you were learning in class to your current position? 

Actually, I just started a position where I am utilizing some of the database concepts I learned with Professor Nick Maccari. A fellow student (Sagnika “Saggy” Mishra) and I were hired by Diamond Kingz Jewelry of Lewes to create a database for a new store opening. The coding concepts we learned are pivotal for the vast amounts of inventory that must be accurately cataloged. Saggy and I often look at each other and ask, “What would Nick do?”  

Q: Now that you’ve completed your degree, what’s next for you? 

Just keep improving upon myself and my knowledge to be the best version of myself I can be! 

Q: What do you love about Wilmington University? 

I love WilmU’s caring community. They have some wonderful programs available. It is a great place to meet others. 

Q: Do you have any words of wisdom, advice or encouragement for people who are thinking about taking their education further? 

Say yes! I received that piece of advice when I started my graduate degree. I think it is great advice. Say yes to try, to do, to believe in yourself. Say yes to the experiences that scare us a little. Say yes to the challenges that push us to grow. Say yes even when we’re not sure we’re ready — because sometimes that’s exactly when the magic happens. 

Q: Lastly, is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for helping you achieve your goals? 

I’d like to thank my family, the faculty and staff of Wilmington University, and my little dog too!  (He’s the best study buddy.)