Senior Kaytlynne Morris was drawn to The University of Olivet because of the smaller class sizes, knowing she wanted a more intimate class setting after experiences having larger classes at her high school. Also, Olivet offered her a Performance and Participatory Scholarship for her involvement with the Marching Comets, which made her decision to choose OC even clearer.
Kaytlynne is double majoring in graphic design and visual arts with a concentration in biological illustration. “Olivet has provided me with many opportunities for internships and actual hands-on experience within the world of graphic design,” Kaytlynne said. “I need to prepare a strong portfolio that can show potential employers what I can create and design.”
One of the places Kaytlynne is getting hands-on experience doing graphic design work is at the Hosford History Center and Lawrence Archives where she helps create posts for their social media accounts. “This job has allowed me to grow my skills and gain experience for my career,” she said.
Kaytlynne is involved in many different organizations around campus as well. She plays the snare drum for the Marching Comets, and she is in Art Alliance, working on projects like the mural in the basement of the Kirk Center and the cornhole boards students can use on campus. She is also part of the Free Thinkers, a group that gets together and has discussions about anything and everything. Plus, Kaytlynne is a member of Mathletes, where she does volunteer work and fundraisers to help her community.
A big part of Kaytlynne’s experience as a Comet is with the Marching Band. When Kaytlynee first joined the band, she only played the violin, but her experience as allowed her to learn new instruments and grow as a person. “The Marching Band has always been the best parts during my time at Olivet, and it given me countless new friends,” Kaytlynne said.
Jeremy Duby, director of bands, has served as a mentor for Kaytlynne throughout her college journey. “Mr. Jeremy Duby has always been my number one supporter at Olivet. He’s been there for me since the start of my acceptance into college, and he has helped me put out countless ‘fires’ throughout the years since then. Mr. Duby has shown time and time again that he genuinely cares for his students, and I wouldn’t have made it through college without his help and support.”
Professor Thia Eller, M.F.A., associate professor of art, has also been helping and encouraging Kaytlynee throughout these four years. “Professor Eller has also been such a huge help to me since my freshman year. She is extremely kind and has helped me develop my artistic skills leaps and bounds further than I ever imagined.”
Another opportunity Kaytlynne has had at The University of Olivet is traveling. “I’ve been on a few trips with the art program to different art museums. The trip to the Chicago Art Institute was my favorite, not only because the museum is fantastic, but because Chicago offers many other adventures. I had never been to an art museum before college and every trip we take really helps me appreciate and understand the importance of art history and conserving the art we have left.”
Being a Comet is what made Kaytlynne the person she is today. “I have changed a lot since my freshman year. I’ve experienced many new things at OC that have helped me grow as a friend, teammate, classmate and leader. I have learned how to stand up for myself and for others. I can speak out when I think something is wrong,” she said.
Kaytlynne would encourage high school students to attend The University of Olivet because of its small size and big opportunities. “If you’re looking for a small class size, Olivet is perfect,” Kaytlynne said. “Only having a handful of people in class with me has made the entire experience a lot more comfortable for me and has allowed me to get individual time with my professors for help on assignments and projects. There are many opportunities to advance your education further, whether it’s advanced honors classes or trips to study abroad!”
Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admission at 800-456-7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.
This feature was written by Audrey Helfrich, a senior majoring in media production and communication. She serves as an intern in the marketing and communications department and is especially interested in photography. After graduation, Audrey plans to continue her work as a freelance photographer, specializing in wedding, senior and family portraits. She also hopes to work in a marketing department for a small business or nonprofit organization.