Ava Noehre, a Business Management and Media Communications major, used her Circles of Purpose mini grant to expand her handmade sewing business. With grant support, she purchased new equipment such as a sewing machine, serger, and shipping supplies, allowing her to improve both the quality and efficiency of her work.

Through the project, Noehre explored entrepreneurship as a potential career path, combining her interests in creativity, marketing, and media storytelling with a family tradition of sewing passed down by her mother and grandmother.

Business and Marketing major Eli Sizemore (left) traveled to Montana to complete a media project focused on snowboarding, photography, and storytelling. During the experience, he created photo and video content while expanding his media portfolio and professional connections. The project helped him see how creative storytelling, business strategy, and hands-on experience can intersect in future careers related to media production and marketing.

Cameron Winebarger (right), an Exercise Science major, traveled to Montana to document outdoor landscapes and experiences through photography and media production. Spending time in rugged natural environments, he reflected on how visual storytelling can preserve meaningful moments in the outdoors. The experience strengthened his interest in blending creative media with adventure, and he is now pursuing his FAA Part 107 license to use drone photography professionally.

Biology major Dagmara Lubina traveled to Helsinki, Finland to explore potential career paths related to veterinary medicine. When planned shadowing opportunities and a veterinary pathology conference were unexpectedly canceled, she adapted by visiting science museums and connecting with professionals working in animal welfare and wildlife conservation.

The experience reinforced her interest in veterinary science while also expanding her curiosity about careers focused on biodiversity and conservation.

Danica Wiseman, a Business and Accounting major, used her Circles of Purpose mini grant to enhance her photography practice by upgrading her equipment and refining her technical skills. With access to improved gear, she began developing her portfolio and growing a stronger client base.

The experience allowed her to reflect on how photography can be used to capture meaningful moments and connect communities. She plans to continue using her skills to document events such as archery competitions and team activities.

Secondary Education major Kaydince Williamson served as stage manager for a production of The Courtroom, taking responsibility for rehearsal coordination, props, costumes, and backstage logistics. 

The experience offered insight into the collaborative process behind a theatrical production and deepened her interest in teaching theatre at the secondary level. She hopes to draw on this experience to inspire future students to engage with and appreciate the performing arts.

Tate Spayd, a Psychology major, participated in a study abroad program in Florence and Rome, where he studied behavioral psychology while immersing himself in Italian culture.

[PHOTO: Tate Spayd (left) with Assistant Professor of Communications Rachel Williams (right)]

During the trip, he visited historic landmarks, museums, and cultural sites all while reflecting on the role of faith, history, and tradition in Italian society. The experience broadened his perspective and deepened his appreciation for both cultural differences and his own Italian heritage.

Media Communications major Frank Osborne spent a month in Las Vegas exploring career opportunities in sports media and journalism. During his time there, he attended the Consumer Electronics Show, professional sporting events, and industry talks. Through these experiences, he connected with media professionals and learned about emerging technologies in sports broadcasting.

Conversations with industry leaders helped him identify a career niche covering women’s sports and strengthened his commitment to pursuing a future in sports media.