Student Spotlight: Michelle Olivar
Class of 2027
Degree:
B.A. in Interior Architecture and Design
Hometown:
Springfield, Va.
Tell us about your background and what brought you to Marymount.
I’m 100 percent Salvadoran, but I was born in Fairfax, Va., and lived most of my life in Alexandria before moving to Springfield in 2015. What brought me to Marymount was my passion for interior design. The program caught my attention because it’s both professional and creative, and I liked that Marymount is such a diverse university. That was a big factor for me. I am a first-generation college student so attending a college that celebrated students from many backgrounds and experiences was very important to me.
Funny enough, in high school, I didn’t even know what Marymount was until I started seeing soccer players post on social media about committing here. That made me curious, so I looked it up, attended an open house and ended up being persuaded by the faculty to apply. I loved how welcoming everyone was, and it just felt like the right fit.
How has your overall experience at Marymount been so far?
It’s been really great and I’ve grown a lot, both academically and personally. I’m very involved on campus—I serve on the boards of five different clubs, including the Photography Club, Athletic & Recreation, Interior Design Alliance, Fashion Club and Latinx Student Association. Being a commuter student, a lot of people tend to just go to class and head home, but I didn’t want that. I wanted to really be part of the Marymount community. Getting involved has helped me build friendships, find balance and enjoy my time here beyond academics. Each club has taught me something different about communication, teamwork and leadership. Being involved has also given me a clearer sense of direction in my academic and career goals. It’s made me realize that you can do a lot in college if you just put yourself out there.
I also studied abroad in Florence, Italy, which was life-changing. That experience helped me connect with professors overseas and see interior design from a global perspective. It gave me a sense of independence and showed me what’s possible beyond the classroom.
How has Marymount’s diverse campus community enriched your college experience?
Marymount’s diversity has definitely made me feel comfortable and at home. Before college, my schools were somewhat diverse, but not in the way Marymount truly celebrates it. Here, diversity isn’t just talked about—it’s visible through events, organizations and everyday interactions. We have clubs like the Latinx Student Association, Saudi Student Association and many others that actively share their cultures and traditions. It makes you feel like you belong and that the University genuinely values who you are.
Being involved in events that showcase multiculturalism makes me feel proud to be part of a campus where Hispanic heritage and other cultures are truly celebrated. Being involved as a Salvadoran student means a lot to me—I want to be seen, heard and do as much as I can to represent my community here.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I’m still exploring which area of interior design I want to specialize in—residential, commercial, hospitality or sustainability—but that’s what my current classes are helping me figure out. My entrepreneurship minor is helping me think long term about starting my own business one day. My dad owns a construction company, so I’d love to eventually merge our skills and grow the company together—combining his construction background with my interior design expertise. That would be a dream for me. But before that, I want to work full time at a design firm to gain professional experience, learn the industry and really understand how things operate on a larger scale. Then I’ll be ready to bring that knowledge into my own business.
What advice would you give new students about making the most of their college experience?
Just get out there and don’t be afraid to try new things. Say yes to opportunities, join clubs, talk to people and push yourself outside of your comfort zone. College is a fresh start where no one knows who you were in high school, so it’s the perfect chance to reinvent yourself. I was more reserved in high school, but when I got to Marymount, I made it a point to be more outgoing, involved and productive. That mindset completely changed my experience. The more you put yourself out there, the more doors will open for you. College is what you make of it, so make it count.
