Passion to Reality: Ashley Selig ’19
What was it that drew you to attend Arcadia?
I came to Arcadia because I was looking for a small school that was near a city and also had a good Art program. Arcadia was actually pretty high up on the list for good Art programs in PA, and then the beautiful campus and global opportunities sealed the deal!
What was it about your school experience that helped fuel your passion?
My photography professors and classmates really helped fuel my passion for photography. While I was a student, they helped me develop my own unique photographic style and supported me in bringing my ideas to life. My favorite professor, Joseph Hocker, went above and beyond to help his students learn and honestly was the person who really made me believe in myself and my ideas! Even after he stopped teaching at Arcadia, he would still come to meet me on campus during my senior year to help me. He also came to our thesis show to see and celebrate the work of all the students he had taught while at Arcadia. He really gave his all to his students and made us excited to create art!
In what ways have you stayed engaged with Arcadia?
I’m still close with several of the friends, professors, and staff members I met at Arcadia. They all have been a huge part of my support system and professional network. I am also part of the University’s Young Alumni Committee, which is under the umbrella of the Alumni Association.
How has Arcadia supported you personally and professionally?
Arcadia supported me personally by giving me a place where I finally felt like I belonged and was valued. I transferred to Arcadia because I never really felt at home or found my people at the other college I was attending. When I got to Arcadia, it was like I found those people naturally. It was so easy.
Professionally, I’ve covered Arcadia events like graduation and Women Who Lead Forum as a freelance photographer working for Arcadia and now I am Arcadia’s full-time Video and Multimedia Specialist in the Marketing and Communications Department.
Why do you value the diversity and inclusivity at Arcadia?
I value the diversity and inclusivity of Arcadia because I think it is a huge part of what made me feel so at home and comfortable being myself on Arcadia’s campus.
