Please meet freshman Krista Hamel.
“I am an avid artist both exploring visual arts and performing arts. I am a Art and Design major, minoring in Biology, Psychology and Childhood Development, and Professional Foundations and Enhancements. When I'm not caught up in homework or rehearsals for dance or theater, I love spending my time outside, drawing, and reading.” Krista is such a talented artist that she recently commissioned to do a book cover for a local self-publishing author.
When asked what her favorite thing about campus was simply the campus itself. “I love the campus. I love the outdoor grassy areas and benches to study, the clock tower in the center and all the historic buildings.”
“Since becoming a Yote, I have become more independent.” If Krista could go back a few years, she thinks she’d try to instill more confidence in herself. “However,” she adds, “each decision of the past impacts the person we become today, and therefore I wouldn't want to change anything significant.”
Her biggest mentor at the college has been Art Professor Alice Vison. Alison has been helpful both in and out of class, giving Krista critiques on my artwork, writing scholarship recommendations, and recommending Krista to people interested in commissions.
“I think people by nature are interesting in their own unique ways. While I have not met anyone famous on a grand scale, I have loved meeting members of the Eugene Ballet Company.”
If she could meet anyone, Krista would love to meet Mandy Moore. “She is a brilliant choreographer who has done work for So You Think You Can Dance, and most recently Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist.” (which has become her guilty please this year) Krista goes on to say, “She is not only talented but also inspiring both by being herself and via the encouragement she gives other dancers.”
Her favorite Purple Illusion Memory be getting ready in the bathrooms before one of our football parades. She laughed, “Dancing to Broadway soundtracks as we threw purple makeup on our faces.”
If she could go back and tell her high school senior self anything, it would be, “Don't take anything for granted, not a friendship, not a hug, not a penny.”
