Kristie McNeill (Class of 2016)
Major: Art Therapy
Minor: Ceramics & Psychology
I chose Marywood because when I walked on campus, I felt like I was “home.” I am very close to my friends and family and to leave them was hard, but Marywood made me feel comfortable, important, and safe. I am truly not only a “number” here, my professors know who I am. Also, I love the art center here with all of it’s perks, including 24hr access and personal studio space.
I am majoring in Art because I love the freedom and expression art grants me. I enjoy letting myself loose in my art and allowing my thoughts, sorrows, and dreams to be captured in my masterpiece. I truly believe that art expresses what words alone cannot, that we find out more about ourselves in the process, and also let part of ourselves free through our art.
When I’m not in class, I’m working with clay, working at the Marywood Art Galleries, hanging with friends, going to the gym, or exploring the world.
My favorite class was…it’s hard to choose my favorite class! I love all my art therapy, ceramic, and art history classes. The current classes I’m in will most likely become my favorite classes because my Roman Art History class will be going to Portugal for spring break, my Art Therapy Internship class has allowed me to have infield experience with art therapy, and my Art Therapy Applications class is allowing me to research in depth on my chosen topic.
The coolest thing I’ve done so far was…again, there are a few cool things I have done, and I don’t want to have to chose. I have traveled and explored parts of Europe, but my favorite part was exploring the ruins of Pompeii. Another cool thing is that Marywood gave me the opportunity to meet and have dinner with one of my favorite artists, David Reed.
When I graduate with my bachelor’s degree, I am going to get my master’s degree in art therapy and finish my schooling with a doctorate’s in Art Therapy or in Psychology. I plan to use my degree to work with pediatric patients with trauma.
I’d recommend the Art program at Marywood because we have great professors within the Art Department, a variety of classes that can be tailored to yourself, and opportunities to meet famous artists, study abroad, and see your own artwork in a gallery. Also the Studio Arts building is a great place for an artist because of its natural light, 24hr access, personal studio space opportunity for students, and vast amount of art materials.
