Jillian Chamberlain-Seitz, a Lithia & Driveway first generation scholar in her first year at SOU, is deeply passionate about costume design and eager to explore the many creative avenues SOU has to offer.  

Roots and Early Creative Spark 

Jillian came to SOU from Eugene after attending the Academy of Arts and Academics in Springfield. This non-traditional, arts-based school, with its smaller student body, provided a hands-on learning environment that truly resonated with her. Reflecting on her time there, Jillian noted, “It was very hands on work and that’s when I really started getting into theater, specifically costuming.” This unique educational setting allowed her to nurture her burgeoning interest in the behind-the-scenes world of theater. 

How Mentors Make a Transformative Impact  

It was at the Academy of Arts and Academics that Jillian encountered a costuming teacher who profoundly influenced her path. This mentor not only taught her practical skills like machine sewing but also helped Jillian forge a deep connection that solidified Jillian’s passion. By her sophomore year, Jillian had found her stride in costuming and continued to pursue this interest throughout high school. This strong mentorship ultimately guided her decision to attend SOU, recommended by her influential teacher.  

Jillian remarks,

“My costuming teacher’s mentorship gave me the confidence to pursue costuming seriously, and by my sophomore year, I knew this was what I wanted to do. Her influence changed my path in the best way possible.” 

One of the highlights of Jillian’s high school costuming experience was her work on a circus-themed production of Twelfth Night. As she enthusiastically described, “I designed close to all of the characters.” This ambitious project allowed her to take on significant responsibility, designing costumes for a large cast and even creating some from scratch, particularly for the character of the jester.  

Embracing College Life at SOU 

Jillian’s decision to attend SOU was influenced by the university’s strong theater program and her positive memories of visiting her sister in Ashland during her younger years. Despite being a self-proclaimed introvert, Jillian is gradually meeting new people through her classes, appreciating classes as a way to connect with her peers. 

A significant factor in Jillian’s ability to pursue her higher education at SOU is the generous Lithia & Driveway scholarship she received. The impact of this financial support cannot be overstated.  

As Jillian recounted,

“The scholarship changed everything for me. I cried when I found out because I knew it would help me immensely. The relief from debt is huge and the freedom to explore opportunities I never thought possible, like studying abroad and pursuing paid internships.”  

Her strong interest in Japanese theater and costume, particularly their use of masks and mythological themes, makes the prospect of studying abroad even more appealing. 

Beyond the Costume Rack: A Multifaceted Artist 

While costume design is a central passion, Jillian’s creative interests extend to various other art forms. She enjoys drawing and envisions possibilities in book illustration and animation. Creative writing is another significant interest with a dream of one day authoring and illustrating her own books. Jillian also has an entrepreneurial spirit, having previously sold handmade items like pouches and bags at local markets. She hopes to continue this venture and potentially explore marketing classes at SOU to further develop her business skills.  

As a first-generation college student, Jillian feels a sense of responsibility and a desire to make her family proud. With her talent, determination, and the support systems in place at SOU, Jillian is well on her way to making a significant impact in the world of costume design and beyond.  

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