Student Features

Most college students juggle classes, campus life and future goals—but few do it quite like Sophia Spahr. A para-swimmer, student body president and aspiring prosthetist, the UOlivet junior is challenging expectations and redefining what’s possible every single day. Whether she’s diving into the pool for a grueling mile swim, restructuring student government or encouraging classmates…

UOlivet Students Make Lasting Impact in Biloxi, Mississippi A group of dedicated Comets decided spring break was no time to take a break. Instead, they traveled to Biloxi, Mississippi, to serve the local homeless community. The University of Olivet has been offering an alternative spring break since 1999, giving students the opportunity to make a…

Moving three hours away from her small hometown of Kalkaska, Michigan, felt like a daunting leap for junior Violet Porter, but her worries were quickly eased. From the moment she set foot on The University of Olivet’s campus, she knew she had found her place. “Being three hours away from home sounded like an impossible…

Morgan Hackworth’s success in the insurance industry didn’t come from just sitting in a classroom—it came from diving into real-world experiences, building connections and embracing every opportunity that came her way. Morgan chose The University of Olivet for its nationally recognized insurance program. What she found was more than a great education—she discovered a network…

During The University of Olivet’s celebration of its 181st Founders’ Day on Feb. 19, 2025, Faith Fowler was one of three students to share their reflections on their time at The University of Olivet. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, growth is “the process of developing or maturing physically, mentally, or spiritually.” In college, growth…

Balancing a rigorous double major, leadership roles and collegiate athletics is no easy task, but for sophomore Abigail (Abby) Chapman, it’s the natural blend of passion, perseverance and purpose. As a chemistry and biology pre-med student at The University of Olivet, Abby thrives in the lab, on the volleyball court and within her campus community.…

Growing up in Charlotte, Michigan, Israel “Izzy” Wagner never imagined he’d attend The University of Olivet—let alone become one of its standout student leaders. But when he learned about UOlivet’s nationally recognized Insurance and Risk Management program during his senior year of high school, everything changed. "I heard about the insurance program and decided to…

When senior Lily Rozeveld stepped onto The University of Olivet campus, she had no idea how many unexpected opportunities would shape her journey. From lacing up her running shoes for the first time to leading campus organizations, she discovered that stepping outside her comfort zone led to some of her most rewarding experiences. “I have…

The University of Olivet Psych Club is taking steps to foster awareness and compassion around mental health on campus. Though still growing, the group is rooted in a mission that strongly resonates with the college community: breaking the stigma around mental health and creating a supportive environment for all. “Our mission is to spread awareness…

Junior Lunar Logan Seiler is on a mission to make a meaningful impact on the world—a goal they've been passionate about since graduating high school. For Lunar, The University of Olivet proved to be the perfect place to turn that dream into reality. “I chose Olivet because I was looking for a smaller education environment.…

When senior Stuart Donlan first stepped onto campus after arriving from his hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana, he immediately sensed something genuine about The University of Olivet. "I chose Olivet somewhat on a whim. I had gone on visits to a lot of different schools, and each had great things to offer. I was really conflicted…

When exploring colleges as a high school student, on senior Ella Gaffke's must-have list were opportunities to thrive and pursue her dreams. She found that in the media production and communication major at The University of Olivet. "When I stepped onto campus as a first-year student, I could have never guessed how my time at…

“You only get one life; why not fill it with everything you enjoy?” exclaims sophomore Alyson Senish. This thoughtful advice comes from a 19-year-old student who is a two-time self-published author, a mental health advocate, a campus club leader, a photographer and more. “Finding motivation to do the things you love shouldn't be hard, it's…

The Forbes Under 30 Summit is an immersive experience for the world’s top young leaders and creators. When presented with the opportunity to attend, senior Leah Hopkins knew it was where she wanted to be. Leah, a graphic design major from Battle Creek, has embraced UOlivet’s philosophy of pushing yourself out of your comfort zone…

At The University of Olivet, students are encouraged to come as they are, explore freely and let their passions unfold. Here, there’s no need to have everything figured out on the first day of classes or to try to fit the mold of others. For senior MacKenzie Hillsburg, this philosophy shaped her journey from uncertainty to…

[caption id="attachment_64988" align="alignright" width="142"]  [/caption] Growing up in Olivet, Michigan, Logan Schreiber always felt connected to The University of Olivet. Choosing to stay close to home for college allowed her to remain near family while forging a new path on campus—a decision that has been transformative in more ways than one. “I grew up watching…

After graduating high school, Conner Schipper thought he’d left basketball behind for good. But just two years later, he’s broken multiple UOlivet basketball records and is taking his game to an international stage. Conner, a Holland, Michigan, native, met Sam Hargraves, head men’s basketball coach at UOlivet, while he was a high school basketball player.…

For most people, Hawaii is a dream vacation—a place to relax on gorgeous beaches, swim in the ocean and enjoy island life. However, nine UOlivet students spent their time rebuilding lives and communities in Hawaii rather than relaxing by the beach. The wildfires on Maui in 2023 were the fifth deadliest wildland fire in U.S.…

We are UOlivet is an ongoing project that features students and employees sharing their Olivet experiences in their own words. As Olivetians, we celebrate the uniqueness of all individuals. We welcome you being YOU!   Jaelyn Weber Peabody, rising junior and biology major with a pre-med concentration. "I actually grew up in just a town over, in Bellevue, and…

Starting the final semester of my college career has made me realize that I might miss being here. As a 2020 high school graduate, my life felt ruined because of COVID-19. My last track and field season was taken away from me, and I couldn’t see my friends to say goodbye before we all left…