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Madeline Bohlman is the definition of a Jane of All Trades. As a senior at the University of Arkansas, part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Miss Arkansas USA, and working with Genesight, she is always striving to make a positive impact and make the world a better place. She embodies the Kyle Cavan woman who advocates for causes she deems important and works towards a better future.
We sat down with Madeline Bohlman to find out a little bit more about her story.
What does graduating from Arkansas mean to you? How did you decide this was the school for you? Why did you decide to major in marketing?
Graduating from Arkansas is a dream come true. Growing up, I never took interest in going to the University of Arkansas because it felt like my whole family did and I wanted to be different. In high school, I visited Fayetteville to stay with a friend, and it immediately felt like home. I will always remember the feeling that I got when I visited and I don't think that feeling will ever leave. I found my forever friends, grew into the strong woman I am today, and have an amazing job to look forward to post-grad thanks to this place!
I originally went into college not having a clear picture of what I wanted to do. After a few months of chasing a major in Data Science, I decided I was too much of a “people person” to not be at the business college. Marketing has always interested me with my creative mindset, so it was easy to make that change. I will be using my background in business and marketing (and a bit of data science) to be a Senior Analyst in merchandising at Walmart HQ starting in August!
How did you become involved in the National Alliance on Mental Illness? What inspired you to do so?
I have always had a passion for mental health, and I wanted to find a way to get involved in helping others. When I learned about the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), I knew that it was the perfect organization for me. NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States, and it provides support, education, and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families.
I also work with Genesight, a genetic testing company for mental health medications. This test changed the game for my mental health and I hope to share my story and the information I learned to help others on their journey if they are using medication as treatment.
You do a lot! How do you manage to keep up with being part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Miss Arkansas USA, and being a senior all at the same time?
It's definitely a challenge, but I'm passionate about all of my commitments, and I'm determined to make the most of my time at Arkansas. I have a lot of support from my friends, family, and professors, which makes it a lot easier! And thankfully, I’ll be graduating and will have 3 months to take a break from work and school to focus on my reign as Miss Arkansas USA!
What was the process to become Miss Arkansas USA like? How did you prepare?
The process to become Miss Arkansas USA was challenging, but it was also an amazing experience. I spent over a year preparing for the competition, including working with coaches, practicing my walk, and developing my platform, but I would say that the biggest preparation in this process was working on my mental wellbeing so that I could fully step into this role as a confident and strong role model. This included taking time to feel my emotions, reading improvement books, and most importantly, focusing on my faith. I am so honored to be Miss Arkansas USA, and I'm excited to represent my state for the next year!
What's your favorite part of being at Arkansas?
My favorite part of being in Arkansas is the people. I've met so many amazing people around the state, but most importantly, I met the people who changed my life at the University of Arkansas. I've said it before and I'll say it again, but my years at the University of Arkansas have shaped me into the person that I am today and I will forever be thankful for that.
Do you have any advice for future Miss Arkansas and other women hoping to compete?
My advice for future Miss Arkansas and other women hoping to compete is to be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not, because the judges will be able to tell. Just be confident in who you are, and let your personality shine through! One of my favorite quotes is “take me as I am, or watch me as I go.” Also know that God’s timing is always right.
Where do you see yourself in five years? What goals and passions are you hoping to follow?
In five years, I hope to be a successful business woman, furthering my career at Walmart’s Headquarters. Who knows, maybe I will be married or have my first child by then? For now, I am focused on living in the moment and seeing the world– I can’t wait to travel to Greece in a few short weeks.
What does Kyle Cavan mean to you?
Kyle Cavan has given me a memorable token for my time at the University of Arkansas. When I look at the symbol on my necklace, I am reminded of the precious days I spent on campus and the amazing people I met along that journey. I will always cherish this gift and look forward to sharing it with my family one day as an heirloom.