The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Emma Kirby, a 2023 recipient of one of the 19 Doug and Renee Leuthold Scholarship awards.
Emma, the daughter of Jason Kirby and Misti Kirby, is a 2022 graduate of Crestline High School. She will be entering her second year of a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology at Marietta College this fall.
What is your favorite aspect of college life?
“I would have to say that my favorite aspect of college life is getting to live in the dorms. It’s one of my favorite things because, regardless of the day, something is always going on, whether it’s the floor above you or two doors down. During my first year of college, I met a lot of students who were commuters, and they always talked about how they wished they got to live in the dorms and experience it, so I think hearing that definitely made me appreciate it even more. Also, living in the dorms made me realize what living on my own would be like without my parents and how much they really did for me at home.”
What new interest or courses of study have you discovered at college?
“A new course that I discovered at college was theatre. At first, I was very skeptical of my theatre class because I didn’t want to be involved in a play or musical, but the class I took was really about all of the behind-the-scenes things, and I found it to be very interesting. It taught me a lot about what all goes into making a play or musical happen. Within the class, we actually got to help with a play of our choosing, and that was a really eye-opening experience. I went to rehearsals and actually got to see it all come together and how much teamwork there actually was. On the last day of rehearsal, it was really nice seeing how proud and happy everyone was of the end production.”
In what ways has the college experience changed/improved you?
“In my opinion, the college experience has changed me in many ways. It improved me the most by forcing me to realize what an independent person I am. Although, I do still rely on my parents for many things, and I did experience a lot of things during my first year of college that I had to overcome alone without their help. It helped me to realize that I can do a lot on my own, and I don’t always have to run back to them when things get tough, even though I know they will always be there to support me if I need them to.”
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
“The advice I’d give to an incoming freshman, is take risks. Whether it be going to an event you’re excited about on your own, or something as simple as walking up and saying hi to someone. Mostly, everyone is nervous at the beginning of semesters about their new classes and the different people in them. But, if you think about it, that’s the exciting part. It gives you a chance to meet a ton of new people, which helps make your next year not seem as scary. Lastly, don’t just sit in your dorm room. Go outside, be around people, because trust me, there’s always something going on.”
What is one item on your bucket list?
“This question resonates with me, because a year ago I’d have answered… attend college. It’s something I’d had on my bucket list since I was very young. The thought of graduation was overwhelming, and then add in leaving home and being three hours away. I’m so proud of myself for all I’ve accomplished this past year, and handling the numerous stressful situations I’ve come across. I’ve learned a lot about myself this year, and I’m grateful I’ve gotten the opportunity to follow my dream because it’s helped me realize I can do so many things as long as I set my mind to it.”
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Emma!
To learn more about the scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships.
