Senior Anna Wertman is double majoring in Communication Studies and Public Relations & Strategic Communicationwith a minor in Leadership Studies. Anna hopes to work in PR or social media for a non-profit organization that has a goal of making the world a better place in the near future.
“I would love to have a job that is making a difference and helping others, and not simply just a career,” Wertman said.
Anna’s college journey first-hand:
I originally visited Olivet when my sister was looking at schools, but I remembered I liked it once it was my turn to look at schools. I came on another visit and still really liked it! I had my decision down to ONU and a school called Murray State, but Olivet offered me a better scholarship. On top of that, I just really liked the atmosphere and community I felt while I was at ONU, so I came here! I actually transferred to ONU after attending two years at Southwestern Illinois Community College. So far, I have loved Olivet. I have made some wonderful friends here and have connected with a lot of the Comm Department Professors. I have also had some amazing experiences such as being an RA and going on an MIA mission trip to Thailand!
Anna on some of her roles here at ONU:
At ONU, I have been an RA in McClain, a Teacher’s Assistant in Pro Comm with Dr. BPT, a member of a few different intermural volleyball teams, and a participant on a MIA mission trip!
Anna on why she chose her major here at ONU:
I chose Communication because I didn’t really like math or science, but I like to talk and I can write fairly well. Other than that, I didn’t really have a reason. I added PR as my second major after taking Intro to PR at Olivet. I thought the work a PR professional sounded interesting, and I liked how the work wasn’t the same every single day. I get bored very easily and I would not enjoy sitting at a desk doing the same thing over and over. Comm and PR are both very broad careers that offer a lot of variety.
Anna on mentors and people who have influenced her:
I would say that my parents have played a very large role in making me who I am today. My family is very important to me, and I value my relationship with them very much. I would also say the College Leaders at my home church have played a large role in influencing who I am. I have been on many mission trips with them, and I learn something from them every single time. Finally, I would say I look up to my professors very much. They are all amazing people that I know I can learn a lot from.
Getting to know Anna:
I absolutely adore animals, so anything that has to do with animals is an interest of mine. I have had pet dogs, cats, gerbils, and a bunny. My grandparents have a farm and they raise goats, chickens, guinea fowl, turkeys, and geese. I also worked on a horse ranch for three years, and while I was there I owned a steer named Dude that I showed in the local 4H show.
I love all things outdoors from hiking to camping to whitewater rafting to amusement parks! You name an outdoor activity and I am in! I have been focusing on spending more time in nature this year because it is definitely something I am passionate about. I have been learning more about sustainable living, and I am also working toward living a more sustainable lifestyle.
A fun fact about Anna:
A fun fact about me is that I love hard work! Not necessarily when it comes to schoolwork , but I love working with my hands. I have been on multiple construction-based mission trips and loved every second of them. I have helped to roof houses, tear down and rebuild walls, insulate attics, put up drywall, put in drop ceilings, build decks, and do so much painting. All of these tasks are mentally and physically challenging but seeing the end result makes it all worth it. There is nothing quite like ending the day covered with sweat and grime but knowing you put your blood, sweat, and tears into making a difference.
You must be logged in to post a comment.