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We're celebrating this grad season by getting a little extra inspired by our Cavan Crew and their amazing stories. We sat down with, Columbia grad, Kaitlyn Shavelle to find out a little more about her college journey at Columbia University, her future as an Astrophysicist at Princeton!
Tell us a little bit about your college journey.
I am originally from LA. I grew up dancing classical ballet with the hopes of becoming a professional dancer. When the pandemic hit, I shifted my focus to academics, pursuing a degrees in Astrophysics and Art History at Columbia. As an undergraduate, I participated in multiple ballet clubs on campus, leading the Columbia Ballet Collaborative as Artistic Director in 2023 and debuting new works by world renowned choreographers. I have also participated in Astrophysics research throughout college, interning at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, the University of Texas, Austin, and Harvard’s Black Hole Initiative. I am also involved in sorority life on campus, being an active member of Delta Gamma and the outgoing recruitment chair.
What are your passions and hobbies?
As an undergraduate, I participated in multiple ballet clubs on campus, leading the Columbia Ballet Collaborative as Artistic Director in 2023 and debuting new works by world renowned choreographers. I have also participated in Astrophysics research throughout college, interning at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, the University of Texas, Austin, and Harvard’s Black Hole Initiative. I am also involved in sorority life on campus, being an active member of Delta Gamma and the outgoing recruitment chair.
What are some of your fave college memories?
My favorite memories of school would be participating in activities on campus with my little brother, Michael, who started at Columbia this past year. Michael and I both dance ballet. My most cherished memories are those of sharing the stage at Columbia with him. I am so happy he is part of the next generation of Columbia ballet. Following undergrad, I will start my PhD at Princeton University in Astrophysics. I hope to study cosmology, answering some of the biggest questions in the universe.
What advice do you have for incoming college students?
My advice for incoming students is to not be afraid of academic or professional failure. Do what you love even if it is hard. Just because you aren’t good at something, doesn’t mean it is not meant for you.
Follow Kaitlyn's journey and check out how she styles her Columbia jewelry on IG @kaitlynshavelle.
