If you don’t know Xavier Vance from her work as a resident adviser, you might have read one of her blogs on OC Stories, sat next to her in class, watched her play lacrosse, met her during Orientation or even bumped into her at a Global Citizen Honors Program or President’s Leadership Institute event. A 2017 graduate, Xavier double majored in journalism and mass communication and business administration with a concentration in management. While her impressive list of titles is a tongue twister, Xavier is best known for her friendly demeanor and bright smile. As one chapter of her educational journey closed after The University of Olivet Commencement on May 20, another is just beginning.
Xavier will attend the University of Windsor to pursue a graduate degree in Film and Media Arts this fall. While she couldn’t be more excited, she’s also battling a bit of sadness as she moves on from beloved The University of Olivet.
“My favorite part about attending Olivet is being around the people,” explained Xavier. “I always wanted to go to a hands-on college, and Olivet met and went beyond my expectations. Leaving here is hard to imagine because I feel like so much of my family is here.”
Xavier truly took advantage of the opportunities available on campus. In addition to her various memberships to clubs, student-worker positions and student-athlete status, Xavier found time to develop her true passion — film. Olivet offers a unique opportunity that allows students to customize majors and programs to fit their individualized needs. If a specific area of study isn’t available, professors and academic advisers will supplement the curriculum with independent study courses, internships and research opportunities to fulfill each students’ specialized needs, which is exactly what Xavier did.
Crediting Kirk Herdershott-Kraetzer, Ph.D., professor of humanities, with helping her find the right path, as well as many others, Xavier completed additional filmography classes to gain experience in the right areas and even worked with admissions and sports teams to create videos for the college.
To those looking for a similar college adventure, but feeling a little uncertain, Xavier shared, “College is what you make of it, so create your own experiences and take advantage of the opportunities at your fingertips. Keep goals in mind, share them with others and make plans to achieve them. At Olivet, there are so many wonderful mentors and coaches to help you along your way.”
For now, Xavier is celebrating her graduation and preparing for the transition to both grad school and life as an international student. After experiencing the greatness of college at Olivet, Xavier is ready to follow her dreams and open doors to more opportunities with the ultimate goal to work in film production, even owning her own company.
“I’m grateful that I’ve had four years to spend with my awesome Olivet family and have so many memories to take with me wherever I go. I know I’ll be back visiting in the future, both near and far,” Xavier said. “I’m taking away the ability to not only see potential in myself, but to recognize it in others and help them break out of their shell, grow and develop as leaders. It’s awesome!”
Learn more about what awaits you at Olivet by visiting campus and finding your major. Our admissions staff is happy to help you navigate your educational journey; contact them at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.