In just a few years’ time, Savannah Hickman ’19 moved from Akron, Ohio, to Chicago, Illinois, started college in Wisconsin and finally landed at The University of Olivet. While the process wasn’t simple, Savannah knows she ended up in the perfect spot.
“Unlike big schools, The University of Olivet has the flexibility to allow you to participate in nearly any activity or sport you want,” Savannah said. “The atmosphere of roughly 20 students per class allows for a better learning experience, and the professors know all of their students by name. At a big school, I was unable to create meaningful personal relationships with my professors like I have at Olivet, which I feel is essential in creating a positive college experience.”
Endless Extracurriculars
During her time as a student, Savannah served as a captain on the cheer and STUNT team, and she is a fellow of the President’s Leadership Institute (PLI). Because of these experiences, Savannah says she is confident in her teamwork, relationship-building and leadership skills.
“Joining the cheer and STUNT team as a sophomore was the greatest decision I could have made, and it helped develop my teamwork and leadership skills into what they are today,” Savannah exclaimed. “As a senior, I even served as a captain of the team.
“I was also involved with the President’s Leadership Institute, which I was invited to join at the beginning of my senior year. PLI gave me many opportunities to further my leadership skills and build relationships and connections with President Corey, members of the Board of Trustees and many other influential leaders.”
In addition, Savannah took advantage of service learning opportunities, like volunteering with the Special Olympics.
“I have had many positive experiences at The University of Olivet, but the one that is most memorable and rewarding to me was a volunteer service trip to Traverse City to help at the Special Olympics,” she said. “The Special Olympics gave me a different outlook on life and helped me realize my passion for helping other people.”
Personalized Academics
Savannah also majored in exercise science, following her passions for health science, the human body and exercise. Now, she’s planning on using her skills to pursue a graduate degree or open her own gym.
“Olivet has given me more than enough tools to excel in my career and further my leadership skills,” Savannah said. “The College has emphasized the importance of building relationships, excelling in academics and finding opportunities around campus that improve the quality of your college experience.
“The University of Olivet has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone every day to better myself and gain experiences that will benefit me for the rest of my life. The knowledge and opportunities that I gained have been very fruitful, and I am very thankful and blessed that I chose to spend my college years at The University of Olivet.”
Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admissions at 800-456-7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.
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