Graduating senior Lee Beauchamp didn’t arrive at UNI with a perfectly mapped out path, but somewhere between getting lost on campus and winning a national advertising competition, they found themselves exactly where they were meant to be.
For Beauchamp, the initial appeal of UNI was similar to that of many other students.
“The small classrooms but bigger campus feel, a wide variety of majors and affordability” were their reasons for ultimately choosing UNI. 
Like many first-year students, the transition wasn’t seamless.
“I definitely felt nervous and got super confused on what building was where — the first few weeks were a navigation mess,” they said.
But after spending more time on campus and gaining experience, Beauchamp feels that they “could probably navigate campus blind.”
Originally from Bellevue, Iowa, Beauchamp pursued a major in interactive digital studies with a focus on visualization and advertising, along with minors in art and marketing. Over the years, their academic path became more than just coursework — it became a pathway to collaboration and discovery.
Among Beauchamp’s most meaningful experiences was competing in the Kansas City competitions through the American Advertising Federation (AAF).
“It is the culmination of a four-month-long project with a team wholly dedicated to the goal of crafting a cohesive advertising campaign,” they said. “Last year we won first, which was an exhilarating experience.”
Outside of the classroom, Beauchamp found joy in outdoor adventures such as climbing rocks with friends in places all around the country.
Beauchamp’s involvement across campus reflects their willingness to step outside their comfort zone. From Deaf Cultural Experience and the Asian Student Union to Outdoor Adventures and AAF, each organization contributed to a deeper sense of community for them.
The willingness to embrace the unfamiliar is something Beauchamp encourages incoming students to do.
“Do things scared,” they said. “Try it at least once, you’ll learn from the experience either way.” 
Mentorship also played a large role in Beauchamp’s college journey. They credit several faculty members with leaving a lasting impact.
“Matthew Wilson, for which the words don’t even describe how much my life has changed because of Wilson,” they said. “Without Wilson, I wouldn’t have half the experiences I do today, any of the accomplishments I’ve achieved.”
They also highlight Katie O’Brien, “for showing me the beauty of American sign language and Deaf culture — I would have never found my way without her. I wouldn’t have the ability to express myself the way I can now.”
Tom Tate helped shape Beauchamp’s creative direction, as it was the reason they got into motion design and Jesús Lizárraga Estrada provided steady support throughout the years. 
After graduation, Beauchamp plans to pursue a career as a 2D motion designer for creative and advertising agencies.
Looking back, Beauchamp describes their time at UNI with a sense of gratitude.
“UNI gave me the best opportunities I never even considered. UNI gave me rocks, a billboard in Times Square, a changed taste for apple juice and a giant lopsided trophy,” they said. “It gave me countless memories, strong friendships, many captured polaroids and a language where I can fully express myself. I would never trade my time here for anything.”
