Picture of Greta

Aloha! My name is Greta Conlon, and I am from Oahu, Hawaii. I am a sophomore double-majoring in Global Communication with a Spanish Track and Dance. When it came time to choose a university, I knew I wanted a place that would support both sides of my identity: my passion for understanding people across cultures and my love for movement and artistry. That search led me right to Chapman.

My “Why Chapman?” story centers around opportunity and openness. Chapman stood out to me because of its strong emphasis on having multiple areas of study. As someone who wanted to pursue two seemingly different fields, I was drawn to how committed the university is to interdisciplinary learning. When I toured the campus, I felt such a strong sense of community and excitement to listen to new ideas. 

My friends and Class of 28′ dance majors!

So far, my Chapman experience has been incredibly valuable and rewarding. I originally came in majoring only in Dance, but I knew I would add Global Communication as my second major. I started taking classes in the School of Communication in my second semester of my first year, and it has been such a welcoming and enriching experience. Combining this with my dance major has made my schedule busy, but in the best way possible. It has enhanced my time here and given me space to explore how the two studies build upon and connect with each other.

Growing up in Hawaii, I was surrounded by a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for culture. Those values follow me everywhere, and they continue to shape my interest in learning about communities around the world and exploring how we can meaningfully connect across cultures. One opportunity I’m especially excited about is studying abroad in Spain next fall!

My big and I in Gamma Phi Beta Sorority.

After joining the School of Communication, I wanted to become more involved and meet more people, which inspired me to apply for the SOC Student Advisory Board. I love being able to connect with individuals, hear their stories, and learn how each perspective adds to the community as a whole. I enjoy helping others find answers to their questions and serving as a mentor and peer to fellow students.

On campus, I stay involved through dance rehearsals, performances, as well as some collaborative projects and Greek life. Through these experiences, I have truly found my people and connected with communities where I have found my place.

A hike that I did in the Pyrenees!

Outside of school, I love to explore California, from walking around the amazing Circle next to campus, to spending time at the beach, and going on hiking adventures.

Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career that blends global communication and dance in a way that allows me to learn about different perspectives around the world. I’m particularly interested in work that explores cross-cultural understanding, creative collaboration, and advocacy through the storytelling of dance. Chapman has helped me envision such a path as possible. I have already grown so much here, pushing myself out of my comfort zone to find my independence and a motivation to soak up the immense opportunities that are offered here.

To any Chapman students, my advice is to stay open and curious. Challenge yourself to discover new passions and see how they can enhance your current ones. Don’t be afraid to pursue more than one path because it will make you that much more unique and well-rounded. There is a space for you if you are willing to go out and find it!

I would love nothing more than to chat or answer any questions! 

You can reach me anytime via email: gconlon@chapman.edu