OWU became my top choice after learning about the small class sizes, opportunities to work with professors, and the OWU Connection.
Name: Mikayla Watts
Class year: 2023
Major: Environmental science
Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
When searching for colleges, my step-dad suggested Ohio Wesleyan because his sister lives in the area. I had never heard of it before, but wanted to visit after seeing pictures of the beautiful buildings on campus. My mom always describes how my face "lit up" the first time I stepped foot on the campus. OWU became my top choice after learning about the small class sizes, opportunities to work with professors, and the OWU Connection.
Why did you choose your major?
Up until my senior year of high school, I never really enjoyed science. However, a friend convinced me to take AP Biology and that changed everything. The teacher I had was so passionate about biology, the environment, and helping us learn. His passion was contagious, I began to enjoy science and learning more than I ever had before. This new interest, and the desire to learn, led to me choosing environmental science as my major.
What is your favorite memory on an Ohio Wesleyan team?
One of my favorite memories with my team is when we went to Philadelphia for fall break my freshman year. We had so much fun just being on the bus, eating on the side of a hill at a truck stop, running in new places, and getting to explore the city together.
What athletic or academic achievement/accomplishment are you most proud of?
The past two years I have received the Dale Bruce Top 50 Scholar-Athlete award. This is an athletic/academic accomplishment that I am proud of because, when deciding if I wanted to continue athletics in college, I was very concerned about time management. This award demonstrates how being involved in athletics has actually helped me to stay organized and dedicated. Having a consistent schedule in terms of sleeping, studying, eating well, and socializing is easier to do when you have a purpose. For me, the desire to support my teammates and contribute well to the team has driven me to form good habits.
Is there a specific coach or teammate who has helped you get where you are?
I honestly could not be where I am without my past teammate Makayla Trebella. The transition to college my freshman year was a struggle, but she mentored me in so many ways and helped me navigate that difficult season of life. She was such a wonderful example of a great teammate and leader. She worked hard as an athlete and student, while also caring deeply about each of her teammates. She has encouraged me and supported me over the past four years, and I am forever thankful that she was my teammate because it led to her being my best friend.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduation I plan to search for a job, possibly with the forest service or with preservation parks. Ultimately, I hope to use my degree and be outdoors helping support the environment in whatever way I can.
Which three people, living or dead, would you like to share a meal with?
Jesus, my grandpa, and my cousin David.
What is the current theme song of your life?
The current theme song of my life is Joy to Be by Citizens.
by Michaela Alfano '25
