As Jane Lickteig prepares for the excitement of graduation, she reflects on her growth through the opportunities at Wichita State. She is excited to graduate because she feels prepared to take on the next chapter in her life. 

Jane is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

What degree did you earn?

I will be obtaining my degree in integrated marketing communication with minors in honors leadership, university honors and signed languages.

What led you to Wichita State?

I grew up in Wichita, and a few of my high school friends attended Wichita State. I figured it would be nice to attend college with them and stay close to family for a bit longer. The affordability and accessibility of the university also appealed to me.

How are you feeling leading up to graduation?

I feel so ready and excited to graduate and to move on from this chapter in my life. Although I've loved college, I'm ready to grow as an adult and have more time to dedicate to my passions, professional goals and the people in my life.

What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at Wichita State?

The most helpful learning experience I had while a student at Wichita State was getting involved in various organizations to understand myself better. Getting involved helped me figure out who I am, what my strengths are and how they fit into the world. Not only that, but I was able to discover communities that supported me and pushed me to achieve.

What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I had as a student was realizing my strengths and passions and feeling in my gut that I had to change directions with my major. If you feel in your heart that your major isn't right for you, explore new possibilities and change to a direction that you feel suits you and your talents better. 

What organizations were you involved in during your time at Wichita State?

I was involved in Alpha Phi, Ambassadors for Diversity and Inclusion, Panhellenic Council, New Member Greek Council, Student Involvement, PRSSA, Counseling and Prevention Services and of course, Strategic Communications.

What are your plans after graduation?

Following graduation, I will be spending the summer in my all-time favorite state, Oregon! After the summer, I will be returning to Wichita to work full-time at Love of Character. 

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your time at Wichita State or your post-graduation plans? 

COVID-19 impacted my classroom experience because I wasn't able to build the connections and relationships I would have if we were in-person. I have several friends within my major that I got to know via Zoom. Although we still have a relationship, I do feel like I missed out on really establishing those connections and making memories inside the classroom. On the bright side, the pandemic gave me a taste of post-grad life and allowed me to pick up more hours at work. I'm really thankful for the flexibility that pandemic conditions offered, even though I was challenged often. 

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

I would tell other students that it's OK not to have it all figured out yet. College is the time to figure out where your strengths are and how you can leverage them to impact the society and people around you. If you feel unsure about your direction right now, it's never too late to change directions to be truly and genuinely happy with where you are. Imagine your happiest self 10 years from now. Reflect on what you imagine yourself doing and the people you see yourself around, and go for those dreams to make them reality.