This piece was written by freshman Delaney Peters, sharing her experience at The University of Olivet’s Opening Convocation this fall. Delaney is an actuarial science major from South Boardman. She hopes to one day work as a healthcare actuary and also has an interest in government, specifically in federal student aid.
The University of Olivet is a unique institution of learning that attracts students from near and far to who aspire to further their education. The atmosphere of Olivet can make anyone feel at home and that they belong on campus. College has always been a dream of mine, and the Opening Convocation ceremony reminded me of why I decided to attend Olivet.
Olivet has a rich history that makes me proud to be a student. I have been exceptionally passionate about women’s rights and education for as long as I can remember. The moment I found out that Olivet was the first college to accept women and persons of color in Michigan, I knew I made the right decision to attend. This may not seem like a huge determining factor, but it was for me. 1844 was a rather long time ago, and views were significantly different then. The people who believed that a college that should accept everyone, regardless of gender or race, were ahead of their time on many levels. Their belief in equal education is admirable, and I am proud to be a part of a school that has such a progressive history.
In addition to Olivet’s beautiful history, the atmosphere of the campus is wonderful. It seems like everyone around you is there to believe in you and hope for the best. The community is so close knit and supportive that I feel like I have found my academic family. I have longed for that feeling for some time, and I finally obtained it once I chose to enroll at Olivet.
The staff and faculty at Olivet are impeccable as well. During the Convocation ceremony, a few professors and a staff member were honored for pursuing their doctoral or master’s degrees. The staff and faculty are bettering themselves so that they can further benefit their students. In addition, the college’s employees are very supportive of students. When Provost and Dean Maria Davis, Ph.D., said, “We love you,” I was awestruck. Olivet has made me feel safe and welcome because of the staff and faculty. The support system is so strong and sincere. I know that I will have someone to talk to if I start to have any kind of problem adjusting to this new chapter in my life.
The Opening Convocation ceremony opened my eyes to remind me why I picked The University of Olivet. I have been looking for a place where I belonged, and I knew Olivet was my new home on my first visit to campus. The ceremony re-validated the reasons for my enrollment, and I am excited for the adventures that are ahead of me.
Find your fit at The University of Olivet by visiting campus or attending an upcoming admissions event. Contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu to learn more.