Behind the beak: BGSU senior reflects on 'magical' college journey

Tyshaun Herron brought energy and joy to campus while building his future beyond the suit

By Branden Ferguson

Four years have come and gone for senior Tyshaun Herron, but the memories he has created at Bowling Green State University and as both Freddie and Frieda Falcon will last a lifetime.

“I not only did what I set out to do – earn a degree – but I also made the most out of my college experience,” Herron said. “BGSU is a magical place. This journey is something I will never forget.”

Ranked among the top schools in the nation for student experience, Bowling Green provided Herron countless opportunities to get involved. He joined Phi Beta Sigma, where he held leadership positions, served as president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and was a Thompson Scholar.

Even with a full schedule, Herron took his involvement one step further by stepping into the roles of the iconic University mascots.

“Being a mascot greatly impacted my BGSU experience and is something I’m going to miss,” Herron said. “I will never forget the memories I created with the spirit team, my time in the suit at various campus and community events and the impact I was able to have on other people’s BGSU experience.

“My favorite event was the holiday parade,” Herron said. “Not only does it impact the BGSU students, but it also affects the community as a whole. I was able to spread so much joy and happiness, and I loved every minute of it.”

As a business administration major with a minor in fashion merchandising and product development, Herron found success in the classroom through hands-on learning, faculty support and meaningful professional connections.

“I knew I made the right decision after my first class,” he said. “The facilities and technology are impressive, but what stood out most was how much support the University provides and how much they want students to succeed.

“The University does a great job partnering with companies, hosting job fairs and helping students connect with recruiters. There are so many opportunities to grow, find support and secure internships and jobs.”

(BGSU video/Justin Camuso-Stall '14, Ben Boutwell '24, Noah Walter, Nick Polace and Jackson Triggs)

Through these connections, Herron met recruiters with the Kohl's Distribution Center and earned a leadership management internship. As a member of the team, he gained experience in various areas of distribution operations, learning how each role contributes to moving merchandise from vendors to store shelves.

"Gaining real-world experience in a distribution center made me love the field even more," he said. "When people walk through a store, they don't realize just how much goes on behind the scenes to get clothes to the shelves. BGSU prepared me for the internship, and as a result, I was able to grow professionally throughout my 10 weeks at Kohl's Distribution Center."

Herron’s entrepreneurial journey began at just 15 years old when he launched a clothing brand as a creative outlet. During college, he refined his vision through business and fashion courses, gaining insight from guest speakers and industry professionals.

“I am so grateful for what BGSU did for me,” Herron said. “I have come a long way from my freshman year, and I am thankful for the growth I have experienced both personally and professionally.”

While Herron is closing the chapter on his undergraduate career, he is not saying goodbye just yet. He has decided to stay at BGSU to obtain his MBA.

“My dream job is fashion design and growing my personal line," he said. I can’t think of a better place than BGSU to continue my education.”