2024 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Olivia Lynna White

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I take a lot of pride in my written work, with a personal side quest to throw myself deep into the creative writing here at MCAD. This is reflected in my merits work that was chock full of poetry of various length. The work I displayed focused on themes of change, deconstruction of the self, as well intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I was actually recommended MCAD but my main high-school art teacher, Ms. Morriss. She’s an MFA alum and saw that my aspirations aligned with MCAD.

What are your plans for your senior year? And beyond?

I plan to head towards the publishing industry hopefully on the editorial side for comics and novels. I shall take whatever road will get me there and enjoy writing every step of the way.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

I enjoy the community I’ve found. The people around me that support me and the comfort in close friends in both my department and in others. Forming connections and the beginning of my own foundation in this world. I hope to see many others alongside me succeed where they wish to.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by what is around me, both people and my environment. My family, friends, their art, everyday experiences, and the many homes I make for myself. I’m led often by my heart and the imagination that lives in my head. Inspiration can strike in a single quick retort made under breath or in the longest pause taken staring at past camera roll.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

My favorite poetry piece currently is one I wrote as a birthday gift for a friend. A longer piece based on their beloved character and how I’d predict their end. If you dissolved a book in acid would it think of its favorite reader in the end? That is to ask if the reader would notice if it was gone? Only the bookshelf knows.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Absolutely obsessed with: cooking potato soup, reading Jujutsu Kaisen, playing Honkai Star Rail, and space bun hairstyles.