Commencement Spotlight: Michaela Grubich

Michaela Grubich
University College
Bachelor of Criminal Justice

What are your next steps or plans for the future? 
My next steps are deciding on the career path that is best for me that relates to the field of criminal justice. 
 
What memory stands out from your time at OHIO? 
A memory that stands out from my time at OHIO is this year's spring break. I was fortunate to go on the Northern Ireland: Human Rights, Law and Justice study abroad program during spring break. While we were in Northern Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom, we learned about the history of “the Troubles” and the legacy it has left. I feel like this experience changed the way I look at life along with having a great time learning about the culture, meeting new people, and making new friends. Guinness is not any better in Ireland!

Why did you choose, and stick with, OHIO? 
I chose OHIO because it was one of colleges that offers the Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree. I stuck with OHIO because of the welcoming community, the caring professors, and the beautiful campus.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life? 
It’s hard to pick favorite professors, but two that really had an impact on me are David Wanczyk and Holly Ningard. I came into David Wanczyk’s class not exactly excited about the course, but because of his charismatic teaching style and personability, I ended up really enjoying his class. As for Holly Ningard, her teaching style is one of the best I’ve experienced, especially considering the difficult topics that our class consisted of. Both of these professors had the ability to make it known that they care about you, and I am very grateful for that.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb (not counting Jeff Hill) at OHIO?
The hardest hill I had to climb was being able to finish this last year strong. Senioritis is a real thing!

And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path? 
I overcame challenges and obstacles in my path by reaching out to people for help. It’s okay to let people know you are struggling, whether that means talking with your professors, family, or friends. College is not easy and there are plenty of challenges that I have experienced so it's important to have a support system. My support system is the reason why I’m able to walk across that stage.

What are your favorite OHIO memories? 
My favorite memories are hanging out with all the new friends I have been able to make. I love all of them. 

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?
Don’t miss out on getting involved with activities on campus. For me, I especially enjoyed playing intramural competitive soccer. Oh yeah, and Taco John’s Lent fish tacos.