KATELYNN Q. is a senior at Pepperdine University and a PCH tutor. Originally from Kansas, she now works in the college’s office of admissions, training new students and giving campus tours. Her friends describe her as “small but mighty” and she agrees she’s got a lot of sass - but lots of love, too.

What are you studying and when do you plan to graduate?

I’m studying rhetoric and leadership within the communications department and plan to graduate in 2019. I’m working toward a certificate in conflict management as well. Being able to evaluate argumentation and writing and speaking well are beneficial skills no matter what career, same with conflict management.

What do you plan to do after graduating?

Upon graduation I’m applying to a few Masters programs - including ones abroad - and I’m interested in working in different universities in teaching or administration. I love higher education and I’d love to stay on campus - primarily a residential campus - and eventually hold an administration role at a university.

Why did you start tutoring?

I learn best by verbally processing; it may sound weird, but I learn information better by teaching it. When people do that it helps solidify certain skills, so I love helping students do the same with their studies - it excites me.

What inspires you as a tutor?

I’m most inspired when I see a student improve on something they’ve been working really hard at, take ownership of their classwork, and come to their own realization of it.

What’s some advice you’d like to share with students?

When you’re on the college and career search, there are a lot of good searches out there, lots of right options. People get caught up in choosing the right one and it gets debilitating. Keep an open mind and be open to where you’re at.

Do you have any time for fun?

I really enjoy HIIT - high interval intensity training - classes, walks, shopping and finding good deals. I like cooking and having people over; I make a pretty mean charcuterie board and homemade pizza. I’ve also always been big into musical theatre - the most challenging character I ever played was Peter Pan but probably my favorite was Cinderella - those are very different roles.