Ashlyn Chandler is a graphic design major from Amherst, Wisconsin. She plans to graduate in May of 2024.
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
I was on a required school trip to a nearby community college that was hosting a college fair. My friends and I had already looked at all the college booths that interested us. I was trying to waste time, so I wandered to the back of the room by the out-of-state schools. I asked if NMU had a softball team and a good art program and I was told yes for both! I took a pamphlet and actually ended up reading it and looking up NMU online. I fell in love with the pictures of the campus and the emphasis on enjoying nature in Marquette. It was a tough decision moving far from home, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What's an example of a cool, interesting, or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
During the first semester, I had a final assignment to create a “master copy” of an image for my Foundational Drawing class. I wanted to make something I was proud enough to hang in my room, so I made a 12x15 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off movie poster. It was made with graphite pencils, red acrylic paint, and a lot of elbow grease. It took about 17 hours to complete over two days, and it is probably my favorite piece I have ever created!
What are you involved in on- and off-campus and what has been the most rewarding experience?
The first semester on campus, I was involved with my hall in Student Government and planning events at the beginning of the semester. We held a lot of beach days and game nights! With COVID-19, it was difficult to get to know new people even with events. Yet, being able to do something every once and a while to bring together people was very rewarding.
What are your plans after graduation? Further comments about your NMU experience:
Further comments about your NMU experience:
I can’t walk to Superior for a swim at the standard university 50% of my graduating class chose. I can’t go searching the beach for sea glass. I wouldn’t have a million different coffee shops to choose from. I wouldn’t get to see the northern lights. I couldn’t hike a mountain without going on a long trip. I wouldn’t get to meet friends from different places. I wouldn’t have learned how to live far from home. Beginning college in the midst of a pandemic was difficult, but I think made the right choice by attending NMU to do it.
Tell us your story
Hi! My name is Ashlyn Chandler I am a first-year Graphic Design major at NMU. I grew up in Amherst, WI, and graduated with a class of 78. I never expected to leave so far from home for school while I was looking ahead as a kid. I always knew I’d be an artist, though. It’s the one thing I’m passionate about that I can turn into a career, and that can help people in the process! While at NMU, I hope to continue my passion for softball by playing on the intramural team. I have played competitively for 10 years and won two national championships and a state title with my team in Plover, WI. It is something I have loved since 5 years old, and it has taught me a lot of valuable lessons about teamwork, determination, and dedication. Continuing at NMU, I hope to be successful in my studies, to grow as an artist and discover who I am through my experiences here.