Olivia Rivet headshotWhat is your grad year and major/minor?
Spring 2026, Applied Human Physiology, English Literature

What’s one unexpected opportunity or experience you’ve had at Chapman that you never imagined before enrolling?
I never expected the opportunity to work as a research assistant and to attend conferences where I would present the work I collaborated on. The biology education research lab (BER) has opened the door to a new realm of occupations I had never considered before, which I now have the research background and connections to pursue.

Can you share a moment when a professor, advisor, or classmate made a big difference in your college journey?
I’ve been feeling quite nervous about graduating recently— worried that there were more people I could have met, clubs I could have joined, or chances I could have taken. I relayed these concerns to a cherished professor of mine, Dr. Caroline Wilson, who asked her about her undergraduate days. She replied by saying that she was like me, a good student, with friends in different circles, who keeps busy. I can’t express how relieved this made me feel. If someone as compassionate, intelligent, and successful as Dr. Wilson could equate our experiences, perhaps I could turn out something like her. It was a simple conversation that made me better prepared for graduation and the exciting escapades that will follow.  

What’s your favorite hidden gem on campus or around town that new students should check out?
An absolute hidden gem, the Entrepreneurship Center is an easy 25 feet from Crean Hall and open to Chapman students. It is usually empty (they occasionally hold seminars and open classes), has a spectacular variety of seating, and a cappuccino maker. 

Olivia and friendsWhat activities or organizations were most meaningful to you at Chapman?
I have enjoyed being part of the Women’s Health Club and discussing both female-specific health conditions and any societal or political constructs that impede care. I also made excellent use of the Chapman student discount with Ticketing, attending several brilliant orchestra, opera, and theatrical performances.  

If you could describe your Chapman experience in one word, what would it be—and why?
Unexpected—I’ve been granted so many unexpected opportunities, adventures, and challenges alike. I’m immensely proud to be approaching the end of a fun and fulfilling 4 years. 

Olivia in a Red Dress

What are your future plans after graduation?
In the next year, I am taking a much-needed gap year to rest, reset, and conduct industry research. I love learning and am excited to apply for graduate school in the near future; however, I want to gain a better perspective on the career paths available, the type of lifestyle I’d like to balance with work, and the job markets I would like to pursue. Ideally, I will be working in a position that allows me to utilize both my background in science and English rhetoric. 

Congratulations Liv!!