What are you studying at Otterbein?

I am a double major in Art History/Theater major, with a focus in theatrical costume design, historical fashion, and museum studies.

What is a typical day like for you as a student?

With two different majors, I find myself bouncing back and forth between the theater and art worlds. Generally my classes alternate between these as well, but I do often find some of these subjects overlap in what I study. Currently I have four big projects going on with three different research projects on contemporary art, the history of burlesque theater, and Maria Graham. I am also currently on the production team for the Otterbein Theater production of Something Rotten as assistant costume designer. So to sum it up, my day usually consists of research, classes, homework, and costume fittings, with a meeting or two thrown in here and there.

What are your goals after graduation?

Apart from traveling the world, I really hope to go to grad school, maybe eventually even pursue a PhD. I can’t say exactly what it is I hope to do as a career, but I know I probably want to do something in museums, especially if it has to do with historical fashion artifacts. Historical dress is my passion, and I think using fashion and costume as a tool to help teach people about the past, particularly when it comes to women, will play a big part in my life, whatever I decide to do.

What is your favorite part of being an art and art history student?

I love learning about art and art history. It seems obvious, but art has always been such a huge part of my life, and getting to really dig in and examine it in a classroom has been really important to me. In fact it was in taking one art history class, taught by (the wonderful) Dr Amy Johnson that I rekindled this love for art, which actually led to me changing my major to art history.

Why did you choose Otterbein?

I went through a very non-traditional college application process. Before Otterbein, I only applied to/had my heart set on one school in England, but it was when I was up in Ohio, accompanying one of my friends who was auditioning for the MT program, that I got talking with the technical theater department who seemed like they really wanted me. Actually, both of my parents are Otterbein Alums, so they also have connections at the school and friends in the area, so it doesn’t seem nearly as far from home as I think I would have felt in England. I applied on the very last possible day, and got in, and I really love the small college feel and experience. It doesn’t feel so overwhelming as a big state school would, and I like how I can get to know my professors and the admin. Of course, the scholarships I received were pretty helpful in making the decision also.

What is the best part about living in the Columbus area?

Columbus is an up and coming city, and I do feel like the people here are very warm and welcoming. The art scene is great, and I think that has been a big part of my art education at this school- getting to actually go out and talk to/see local artists and their work. I love the overall vibe of the city.

What advice would you give to an incoming first-year student?

Well, if you’re from the south, like me, invest in a really nice coat. But on a more serious note, I  encourage students to really dive deep into the opportunities that are offered at Otterbein. It is possible to coast, and just get in and out with a degree, but if you are willing to put in the work, the teachers will be there to support you in broadening the scope of your endeavors. If you think you are passionate about something, find someone that will help you make it a reality.  If you decide that you’re not happy with the path that you are on, find someone that will help you shift it. You will get out of your education what you put into it, but you are not alone. It won’t always be great, you will get overwhelmed, and you will have to put the work in, but it is worth it . There are people here to support you, Professors, faculty, staff, administrators, fellow students, and as long as you keep going and do your best, you will be fine.