Theresa Calabrese
Name: Theresa Calabrese
Hometown: Meriden, Conn.
Year in School: Senior
Major: Graphic Design
Theresa Calabrese brings to the table an interesting mix of interests and talents. She is a graphic design student and a good one at that. She serves as the art director for TEMPO Magazine, a highly coveted position for students in the graphic design program. Theresa also has a passion for public service. She is the president of the very active Rotaract Club at Coastal. Before the fall semester even started, Theresa had already planned and executed a couple of community service initiatives.
A native of Meriden, Conn., Theresa didn’t even have Coastal Carolina on her radar as a college option at first. However, when she went to visit her grandparents in the Grand Strand area, her parents approved the trip on the one condition that she check out a university while down south. She decided to take a campus tour at CCU and immediately she had a new frontrunner in her higher education search.
Theresa says that Coastal made her a better person but she has helped make Coastal a better campus. With aspirations to work in New York one of these days, it is important to enjoy Theresa while we have her.
Q&A with Theresa:
How did you hear about Coastal?: I wanted to go to Myrtle Beach by myself to see my grandparents. My parents told me I could go only if I looked at another school. So I came down and took a tour of Coastal. I knew this was where I was supposed to be from that moment.
Why did you come to Coastal?: I really enjoyed the small community and how kind everyone was. I was touring other schools and it seemed like you were really just a number. Here, you are more than that.
Favorite professor: Professor Paul Olsen- he was my first design professor and a mentor throughout my years at Coastal.
Favorite class: ARTD 302 (Design IV)- the last standard design class was where I was really pushed creatively. I was starting to spend more time on concept and learned how to defend my design choices.
Favorite aspect of Coastal?: My favorite aspect of Coastal would be the opportunities available. I have been so lucky to have had opportunities that have made me a better designer, leader and overall a better person.
Favorite aspect of living in the Conway/Myrtle Beach area?: My favorite aspect of the area is downtown Conway. The people there make you feel like you're a part of the community. I love the small businesses and the small town feel.
Clubs/Intramurals/other extracurricular activities involved in?: I am the president of the Rotaract Club. I have been involved with Rotaract for three years where I have been secretary, vice president and finally the president. This has been the most rewarding and moving part of my college career.
Do you work anywhere currently (either on or off campus)?: I work for TEMPO Magazine as art director. This is a position I have worked hard to be eligible for so I'm so excited to have this opportunity.
Plans after graduation?: I would like to intern at the Hamilton Wood Type Museum for a few weeks. I love printing and especially letterpress, so that is something I want to do for myself before moving on to an internship or job in New York.
What are your hobbies?: My hobbies include letterpress printing, reading, volunteering, and spinning.
Do you have any hidden talents?: If I told you, it wouldn't be hidden!
Bonus Info: I have a quote I would like to share. I read it recently and it's by Maddy Schneider. "Always create more than you destroy."