As a senior in high school, Mikayli Marciulionis ’26 was on the robotics team, and wanted to pursue an education in computer science. But soon after arriving at UMN Morris, Marciulionis felt her true interest calling her.
“I always liked English, I was always good at it,” she said. So she chose to major in English with a minor in creative writing. Marciulonis then stumbled into a theatre major by accident. She followed her interest in theatre through classes and by involving herself in productions. Before she knew it, she was on her way to completing a major in theatre so decided to pursue that as well. “I have always been interested in theater. I was able to pick it back up through Morris.”
Marciulionis was initially interested in UMN Morris because of its affordable price and that she had a family connection here. But she quickly found much to love at Morris, including the small town atmosphere, being drawn to the outdoors, and learning more about her culture.
“When I came for my tour they had put my name up in the parking spot, and they actually spelled it right. I know it's a small detail, but it made me feel welcomed.”
This welcomed feeling would continue as Marciulionis joined clubs and different activities. She found that she was able to meet people she wouldn’t normally have interacted with. “I met most of my friends through clubs.”
In fact, the community is what Marciulionis likes the most about UMN Morris. From the moment she first arrived on campus, she liked that she could just be herself.
“It’s a really accepting and inclusive community. Everyone is nice. Sometimes it doesn’t feel like I’m at college, the atmosphere is so relaxed,” says Marciulionis. “There weren’t any expectations for me to be the same person I was in high school. I could just be me.”
Marciulionis points out that it’s not just the students who are friendly. Along with her friends, Marciulonis attributes the faculty as being one of her major supporters at UMN Morris, especially her academic adviser, Josh Johnson.
“He’s really easy to talk to and has been very helpful. He makes me think about both what I want to do and what I enjoy doing.”
When asked what she would tell prospective students, Marciulionis said to try everything. “[Y]ou never know what might interest you.” She’s excited about future trip opportunities and noted that she doesn’t spend too much time concerned with what others think. “College is just as much about finding yourself as it is about academics.”