Hillel Martyniak
General Studies
Hillel Martyniak enrolled at Â鶹ÊÓƵ in fall 2025 to pursue his passion for English, political science, writing, and teaching. Having previously worked as a cook since the age of 14, Martyniak saw Delaware Tech as the ideal place to start his new academic journey.
“Coming to Delaware Tech felt very comfortable,” said Martyniak. “It’s more like high school than I expected. Most people I’ve met at the College took a break from their education at some point, and we are all starting fresh and figuring out our path in life. It can make people anxious sometimes, but that familiar feeling really helps.”
Martyniak enrolled in the general studies program at the College but plans to study English and journalism at the University of Delaware after he graduates.
“I got into writing at a really young age, and my mom was also an English major,” said Martyniak. “That’s why the direction I want to go leans into English. In the end, I want to teach something that hopefully involves writing and the humanities.”
As his first semester kicked off, Martyniak remained committed to his studies and maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout fall 2025. When spring 2026 arrived, Martyniak felt confident enough to bump his course load up from three classes to five classes. By far, his favorite experience while enrolled at the College has been taking political science with Dr. Claude Thomas, which has had the biggest impact on him so far.
“Dr. Thomas knows what he's talking about and is probably the most interesting person I've ever spoken to,” said Martyniak. “I really like theoretical politics, so everything we discuss is in line with my interests. When you take these kinds of classes, you want to debate and argue about different topics. His class allows you to engage in those kinds of discussions while also being respectful to each other.”
Outside of class, Martyniak performs vocals in a metal band and works in the Stanton Campus library, assisting Delaware Tech students and faculty.
“I got the job in the library through the federal work-study program,” said Martyniak. “It is a neat program that gives participants access to a bunch of different jobs like tutoring, front-office positions, and even helping out the school safety officers. These jobs work around your schedule, and you get paid.”
After graduating from Delaware Tech, Martyniak plans to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Delaware. His ultimate goal is to become a professor and inspire students to appreciate history and literature.
“Since arriving at Delaware Tech, I feel fulfilled,” said Martyniak. “I’m busier than I once was and have a bit more stress, but that’s a good thing. Just having the opportunity to build myself up and seeing the reactions from others has been rewarding for me personally.”
