In this series, Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences highlights distinguished members of the Class of 2022 from a wide range of majors.
All the work that goes on behind the scenes behind the scenes is what makes a show dazzling on stage, as Caitlin Duncan 22 can attest.
Double majoring in theater design, technology and arts management, with minors in early childhood development and business management, Duncan is pursuing a career in fashion design. That journey began in the fall of her freshman year as she began working in a costume shop for the performing arts department.
This year, the Theater Design and Technology Program honored her with the Senior Student Excellence Award. Duncan was also the captain of the Campus Recreation and Wellness team while at Elon.
What her teachers say:
“Over the past four years, Caitlin has grown as an amazing stage designer with an excellent eye for costume design,” said Clothing Store Manager, Cutter/Draper and Instructor Heidi Jo Schiemer. “She is a natural leader and has been an excellent teacher for first and second year students.”
I studied many things at Elon. How did you choose your majors?
Coming to Elon, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in fashion design. Once I met the faculty and staff at the university’s costume store, I realized that theatrical design and technology suited me. The costume shop was full of life and Associate Professor Jack Smith and Fashion Store Manager Heidi Jo Schimmer were very knowledgeable and welcoming. During my first semester at Elon, I met several performing arts students who were majoring in arts management. The students had only exceptional things to say about Associate Professor of Arts Management David McGraw, Program Coordinator, and Arts Management Program. After my first arts management class, I was hooked!
Who was your mentor, and how did this relationship enhance your college experience or prepare you for a career in the performing arts?
Elon University Fashion Store Manager Heidi Jo Shimmer hired me to work in the fashion store the first year of my fall and it really changed the trajectory of my career. Heidi is one of the toughest people I’ve ever met on the job. Her dedication to student learning has enhanced my experience at Elon by using each day as an opportunity to learn a new technique, craft or skill.
Heidi has been constantly challenging me to learn and grow as an artist by showcasing what a lifelong learner is like. More than just a mentor, Heidi was also a great friend. She truly cares about the overall well-being of each student and makes every effort to make each student feel welcome and encouraged to be themselves.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will be attending the summer Ogunquit Playhouse in Ogunquit, Maine, as their fashion store. Ogunquit Playhouse has a 90-year legacy of producing world-class theater from the ground up, collaborating with creative teams from New York, Los Angeles and London, and featuring the best and brightest talent from Broadway, film and television.
What was the most valuable part of your experience with Elon?
As a first year student, I built Joanna’s dress as a costume building project for Elon University’s Sweeney Todd production. This project was a bit daunting at first, but getting a project of this scale done in the fall of my first semester really set the course for my success at Elon. When I saw the final outfit on stage, I was so proud of the many hours and hard work I put into it.
As a senior, I worked as a costume designer for Elon University’s production of Sense and Sensibility. This design opportunity was something I had been working towards for all four years at Elon. The opportunity to work as a fashion designer has allowed me to practice real-world skills that can be transferred directly to my future career. I was able to learn about time management, how to work well with other designers, formed important organizational skills and enhanced my creative design process.
I served as the Recreation and Wellness Campus Group Exercise Team Leader for two years. This business opportunity allowed me to develop my leadership skills by managing a team of 15 peer group exercise coaches. As the team leader, I’ve been able to hone my cheerleading, communication and confidence skills.
What advice would you give to Elon’s future students?
My advice to a first year student is to find passionate projects and give them 100%. Find a place on campus where you feel inspired to do more and give it your all. Allow yourself to be passionate about the work you do.
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