ETSU student leader Daylin Karlon showcases campus community and leadership through student organizations, philanthropy and recreation internships while preparing to graduate in May.
When Daylin Karlon led prospective students and their families on admissions tours of East Tennessee State University's campus, he had a list of items to share.
Campus life, academics, buildings, programs – all the usual suspects on a campus tour.
But there was one aspect of the ETSU tour where Karlon let actions do the talking for him.
Community in Action
“Everyone knows the big word ‘community’ – that is what everyone says here at ETSU,” said Karlon. “But I wouldn’t want to just tell them about it; I would say, ‘Let me show you.’ You cannot go from one side of campus to the other without knowing people. You will be waving. Even if you don’t know someone, they’re going to smile at you. That is the difference … people want to get to know you. People want to be your friend.”
Since Karlon, a sport and recreation management major from Wesley Chapel, Florida, transferred to ETSU from community college, he has made many friends through his involvement in student organizations.
From the moment he arrived on campus, Karlon said he “just wanted to join every little thing.” He became an Expedition Leader, where he served as a campus tour guide and brought ETSU’s sense of community to life. He also took on a leadership role in Outdoor Adventure, guiding trips like rock climbing and backpacking. He was active in his fraternity and was named Homecoming King in 2025.
Giving Back
One of the most impactful organizations he served with was the ETSU Student Foundation Ambassadors (SFA), which he describes as “my first taste” of connecting with alumni and understanding the importance of giving back and philanthropy.
Through his work as an SFA, he helped plan Forever ETSU, a week-long campaign that brings together alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and friends to support scholarships, programs and opportunities that transform lives across the university.
“I think it’s very important for students to give back just like the alumni do,” a belief shaped by the support he’s received. “It has made a huge impact on me,” he said.
That growth extended into his professional experience, as well. Through an internship with Johnson City Parks and Recreation, he helped build an outdoor classroom and trail at Winged Deer Park for local schools.
These hands-on opportunities have directly prepared him for what’s next after he graduates in May.
“Every step I’ve taken at ETSU has led me to having this job right out of college,” he said. “ETSU has really been the greatest thing that could have happened to me.”
