Tell us about yourself!

My name is Brooklyn Schumm, my pronouns are she/they, I am from Kendallville, Ind., and I am a 2023 graduate. My majors were graphic design and community arts organization.

What are you involved in on campus?

 During my time at Manchester, I held two internship positions. One year, I worked as an intern for Student Life, and the following year I was a social media intern. I also had a job at Sisters Café for a year. Outside of working and interning, I was a member of the Honors Program. 

Why did you choose Manchester University?

I transferred to Manchester during quarantine to better my mental health. The school I was going to before was not a good match for me, and I knew I had to make a change. I had many friends who had gone/were going to Manchester and spoke wonders about the school and the professors, so I wanted to see what all of the hype was about. Coming to Manchester was like a breath of fresh air compared to the school I previously attended. I couldn't be happier with my decision to transfer here!

What is your favorite thing about Manchester?

My favorite thing about Manchester is the people. Whether it be the professors, my coworkers/bosses when I was completing my internships or my friends, the people here at Manchester made the stress of transferring worth it.

What do you see yourself doing after Manchester?

This July, I will be moving with my partner to Indianapolis. I will be looking to find and start a job in the graphic design field or social media management.

Who is your favorite professor you have had?

My favorite professor was Ejenobo Oke. She taught me so much inside and outside the classroom during my time at Manchester. She has been my rock at MU and I love her so dearly. I am blessed to be able to call her not only my professor but my friend. I appreciate all of the wisdom and teachings she has shared with me since meeting her in 2020.

What is your favorite class you have taken at Manchester?

My favorite class I have ever taken at Manchester would probably be my Advanced Crafts class with Ejenobo Oke. I was able to weave my own graduation stole on a floor loom, which is one of the best experiences I have ever had. 

What advice would you give to an incoming Manchester student?  

I would advise an incoming Manchester student to use these next four years to reinvent yourself. Personally, I used this time to try and make my younger self proud, which I think turned out pretty well.

What is something someone wouldn't know just by looking at you?

My go-to playlist when driving consists of Minecraft parodies, One Direction, and bedroom pop.

What is your favorite Manchester memory?

One of my favorite memories was with Jena (my academic advisor) in 2020, when I first started attending Manchester. I was fully remote for my entire first year here, which is hard for an art major. However, Jena was an angel who would come to my house and sit in my front yard with me to go over what I was missing in studio time to ensure I was getting it right. These little picnics rekindled my love for creating and led me to declare both of my art majors.