Growing up in small town Nebraska, Geneva Laverty and her family found ways to make their own fun: road trips to the Badlands, Devil’s Tower, and all over Colorado. When they weren’t on the road, they enjoyed biking around town and staying involved with extracurriculars. Geneva was always artistic. She spent time in dance (as a performer and a teacher), band, art club, speech team, choir, and the local theatre (“On stage and crew – why do just one side?”) With her family, she was always encouraged to be herself and to create by painting, drawing, photography, and singing.

Why Missouri State?

Many relatives and friends attended Missouri State, so it seemed the logical choice. After 12 years in the Navy and 11 years as a correctional officer, Geneva felt it was time to try something new and knew Missouri State could help her. She explored her options and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Theatre, with a minor in Linguistics. The transition from military and criminal justice to theatre seemed drastic but she shared, “I’ve always felt like even being in the Navy and as a Corrections Officer, those were roles I was playing, and while I played them well, it would be a lot more fun to be able to be around the theatre and be able to embrace my creative side on a more regular basis.”

She would love to use her linguistic skills from the Navy to the bring scripts from different cultures and languages to the American stage. Being able to broaden someone’s view of the world and their understanding of another culture would be incredibly meaningful. After graduating, she dreams of running her own theatre and advocating for the shows she loves, new shows that need a chance in the spotlight, and give back to people and the arts.

Highlights

Geneva admits it’s hard to pick a favorite within her first semester at MO State, but describes Art in Context (ART 200) and Classical Mythology (LLT 121) as peak points. They capture two of her biggest loves and when they intersect it gives her a deeper insight into not only art and mythology but people of different times.

Outside of the interest in her studies, she enjoys the community feel of the campus. “Everyone has been so helpful and kind. I have yet to meet a person who is not wonderful!”

She is also enjoying the many opportunities to get involved within her program area. Geneva recently began as an Assistant House Manager at the Juanita K. Hammon Performing Arts Hall and she knows this is an incredible opportunity to gain theatre experience.

Any advice?

While it’s early days in Geneva’s MO State career, she is excited to continue on with her studies and pursue this goal. She shares some parting advice for readers, “Never be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try new things!”

We couldn’t agree more. Transitioning to a new institution or returning to higher education after an absence (or simply coming for the first time) is out of many students’ comfort zone. Adult Student Services is here to walk you through the process and ease the transition. Let us help!

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