ABOUT MELODY
- From Canton, OH
- Member of the Class of 2028
- Majoring in Interior Design
- Tour guide
- Resident assistant
Melody's three words that describe Kent State: Community, Picturesque, Supportive
TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A STUDENT AT KENT STATE!
I'm an interior design major with a minor in construction management. When I first started at Kent State, I didn't get along with my roommate. I forced myself to go to events and go to bible study. That first semester didn't define me. In my second semester, I blossomed into who I continue to grow and be like every day. I applied to be a resident assistant (RA) and a tour guide, was selected for both and I haven't looked back.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE KENT STATE?
I chose Kent State because of its interior design program. I also liked the way the buildings were laid out on campus, not smashed together but also not too far away from each other. Plus, I loved the weather. I visited in the spring and everything was super beautiful, and I could see myself being a student here. I had dreams of walking to classes around campus to classes.
WHEN DID KENT STATE START TO FEEL LIKE HOME?
In the beginning of fall 2025, I was so happy to come back to campus as an RA and build more community through that experience. The best ways to find community are to step out of your comfort zone, don't be afraid to apply to positions, take a cool elective, take risks and you might end up liking what you do even more.
WHY DID YOU BECOME A TOUR GUIDE?
I became a tour guide because I am extroverted and I knew a lot about Kent State because of the Peer Success Academy and wanted to put that to use. I also love being able to walk around campus and show others why Kent State could be the right college for them.
WHAT'S A COOL LEARNING EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD?
A cool moment I had was learning who my community was at Kent State. I felt alone at first but found my people. Even though two of my best friends are graduating this semester, I am already making plans to continue to be friends with them. I then met two new people this past year and got really close with them, too. I feel at home at Kent because of this.
WHO HAS MADE YOUR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE SPECIAL?
To be honest, it was the friends I have made; without them, I have no clue where I'd be right now. I get excited to see them and tell them things that happen in my life, good or bad.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY?
Some of my favorite memories include going to church and singing worship with my friends and hanging out afterward.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS, POST-GRADUATION?
At the moment, I want to be on the residential side of interior design, maybe as a design consultant or a house stager. Kent State is preparing me with a studio and internship during our junior summer. I'm excited to learn more and grow in the industry.