The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Kaya Capretta, a 2024 recipient of one of the 19 Doug and Renee Leuthold Scholarship awards.
Kaya, the daughter of Casey Capretta and Sarah Capretta, is a 2023 graduate of Galion High School. She is in her second year of a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering at The Ohio State University- Mansfield Campus.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"One of my favorite aspects of college life is meeting new people and discovering new perspectives. Every conversation with someone from a different background or culture opens my mind to new ideas and challenges my assumptions. These interactions often lead me to explore new interests and passions I hadn't considered before, making my college experience exciting and allowing me to learn a lot both in and out of the classroom."
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"In college, I discovered several new interests both through courses required for my degree as well as from exploring campus. First semester, I found that I was very interested in physics, as I have always been interested in figuring out how things work, from basic mechanics to complex theories. I also took up rock climbing with a friend I met in Physics class, initially as a fun way to stay active, but quickly became a major hobby. The physical and mental challenge of climbing routes is exciting, and learning about forces and friction in physics has actually helped improve my climbing skills. It's cool to see how these two interests intersect each other and expand my knowledge."
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"College has changed and improved me in several ways. I've become more open-minded and adaptable, partially due to interactions with people of diverse backgrounds and tackling new challenges. Academically, I've gained a deeper understanding of my interests and strengths, solidifying my choice in a focus on mechanical engineering over other fields. I've also developed stronger problem-solving skills and learned to manage my time and responsibilities better. Overall, college has helped me grow more confident and curious, shaping me into a more well-rounded person."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"Advice I would give to an incoming college freshman is to explore by trying new courses and activities to discover hidden interests. Get involved in campus life to build connections and find your community. Stay organized with a planner to manage your time and responsibilities effectively. Don't hesitate to seek help from professors or campus resources when needed. Prioritize your health by maintaining a balance between work and self-care. Finally, keep an open mind and embrace new experiences, as college is a time for growth and learning."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to visit Greece because of its rich history and stunning landmarks. Exploring the ancient Acropolis in Athens, especially the Parthenon, and the historic city of Delphi would be incredible. Since I was young, I have been interested in Greek tragedies, as well as mythology and history, so visiting these places firsthand is something I have always wanted to do. Experiencing these sites would deepen my appreciation for ancient Greek civilization and its impact on history and culture."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Kaya!
To learn more about the scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
