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 done a lot of growing throughout my time at UOlivet and I doubt that my first-year self would recognize me today. I have gained a lot of confidence in myself through my involvement in sports, Greek life and campus employment. I have been able to explore what I am good at and just how much I am capable of. I have become more in touch with myself,” Lily said.
Originally from Lawrence, Michigan, Lily was drawn to UOlivet’s close-knit community. “From the moment I stepped on campus for my first tour in July of 2019, it felt like home,” Lily said. She was inspired by UOlivet alum Cassie McDonald Ross ’13, a physical therapist who became a mentor after treating Lily’s back injury in high school. “She served as a wonderful PT, friend, and role model to me,” Lily said. “Cassie told me before I started at UOlivet to enjoy the ride and make the most of it.”
Once at UOlivet, Lily embraced new opportunities, including joining the track and cross-country teams. “I knew that I needed to try something new,” she said. “Karen Lutzke reached out to me after she was told by a friend of mine that I had asked about track, and a week later I was competing in my first collegiate track meet. Track is what got me into running, but it is cross country that will always have my heart. I chose running because I wanted to try something new, and I stayed because the people made it the most fun sport experience I’ve ever had.”
Lily shared that participating in a completely new sport gave her a unique perspective. “Many people have been playing their sport for four-plus years before college. I had one week of formal track training before my first meet,” she said. “Coming dead last in races was a foreign concept to me, and while frustrating at times, ended up being fun.”
Beyond athletics, Lily explored Greek life through Alpha E, gaining leadership experience and making unexpected friendships. Academically, she found a passion for psychology after a high school class. “I chose to major in psychology because I really liked the dual enrollment psych class I took in high school. I chose to minor in criminal justice because I wanted to learn more about law enforcement and corrections and how they related to psychology.”
Looking ahead, Lily is considering careers in law or therapy. “I am passionate about law. I feel the system we currently have in the U.S. does not exist to serve the majority of the population, and I want to advocate for those who cannot do so for themselves. And I’m passionate about therapy because I myself have been in therapy for six years, and it has greatly improved my quality of life. I want to be able to help others as my therapist has helped me.”
Reflecting on her time at UOlivet, Lily is profoundly thankful for those who have supported her throughout her journey including Assistant Provost KayDee Perry, Assistant Campus Safety Director Brad Baker, Professor Regina Armstrong and Coach Karen Lutzke. “These individuals got me here, kept me here, and supported my growth, development and learning—for that, I am eternally grateful.”
Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admission at 269-200-4060 or admissions@uolivet.edu.