The TCU College of Fine Arts is preparing to graduate an outstanding spring 2024 class. Graduates including Maggie Bubb from the School of Art, Sydney Lynch from the Department of Fashion Merchandising and Tianni Robinson from the School for Classical & Contemporary Dance, share their postgraduate plans to “Lead On, Creatively.”
Maggie Bubb
School of Art
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
Coming from Minnesota, my first visit to campus with my mother ignited an instant connection. The picturesque buildings, lush landscaping and welcoming atmosphere captured my heart instantly. Amidst the smiling faces and vibrant energy, this was the place where I envisioned spending my college years.
Maggie Bubb
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
While working with Dr. Amanda Allison, I volunteered at Moncrief Cancer Center to teach watercolor therapy to cancer patients and their families. I also worked with the Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas, developing a four-week art program to support the professional aspirations of self-advocates.
Currently, I’m involved with Panther City Artists, a non-profit dedicated to establishing a community in Fort Worth where everyone can have an opportunity to create art to enrich their lives and that of others.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
While I’ve encountered numerous remarkable influences during my time at TCU, my daughter Akira stands out as the most impactful. Her presence has fundamentally shaped my approach to education, compelling me to work tirelessly. Through her eyes, I’ve learned to perceive the world with a sense of childlike wonder, finding beauty in the minutiae of life. I aspire to pursue my dreams and serve as a guiding light, inspiring Akira to fearlessly chase her own aspirations.
What are your future plans?
Looking ahead, I envision delving deeper into the field by pursuing a master’s degree in art therapy. My goal is to make a meaningful difference by fostering creativity and facilitating emotional growth through therapeutic art interventions.
Sydney Lynch
Department of Fashion Merchandising
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
Growing up in Fort Worth, I was drawn to the purple frog banners and vibrant school spirit at TCU. However, I chose to attend TCU for its strong academic programs, tight-knit community and networking opportunities. I’m proud to be part of the Horned Frog community at TCU, an institution that has so many opportunities.
Sydney Lynch
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
From participating in Greek life and philanthropic organizations to joining honor societies and even creating my own student organization, I’ve fully embraced the extracurricular opportunities at TCU. I completed an internship in New York City with a well-known stylist, which was all possible because of the fashion merchandising program. Through this internship, I connected with others in the fashion industry and was invited to assist with fashion shows during New York Fashion Week in September 2023 and February 2024.
What’s next for you?
My next endeavor is to land a job in the fashion industry in New York City, leveraging both the creative and analytical skills I’ve developed at TCU. While I haven’t landed a position yet, I’m cherishing my remaining time at TCU because it has played a pivotal role in shaping my past, present and future successes.
What advice would you give to current College of Fine Arts students?
Take every opportunity that comes your way and cherish your time at TCU. The College of Fine Arts, along with TCU overall, wants to see you succeed and offers several resources to assist you. Keep your head up, remain open-minded, take opportunities and don’t forget to have fun!
Tianni Robinson
School for Classical & Contemporary Dance
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
Choosing TCU was truly vital during the pandemic in May 2020. With uncertainties about the virus, my family preferred I stay closer to home in Houston, Texas, rather than venturing to New York City. Professor Elizabeth Gillaspy’s generosity and effort were another deciding factor. She maintained regular contact during the pandemic, knowing that college was going to be a big step for me. Her efforts, including a personal campus tour and addressing all my inquiries, were greatly appreciated.
Tianni Robinson
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
During my junior year, I became a member of NaturallyMi, Women of Empowerment, and the Entrepreneurship Club. Later, I joined the Chi Tau Epsilon Dance Honor Society to enhance internship opportunities for aspiring dancer-entrepreneurs. In the summer, I attended and interned as an arts administrative assistant at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City, followed by a remote internship with the David Parsons Dance Company in the fall. I always wanted to work for a non-profit organization and learn more about the business behind a successful dance company. This past fall, I joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and served on the executive board as the financial secretary.
What’s next for you?
I’m heading to Southern Methodist University for a dual master’s program in Arts Nonprofit Leadership and Business Administration with a focus on Entrepreneurship Management. Post-graduation, my goal is to launch a nonprofit summer dance camp in Houston for minority students, facilitating their transition from high school to college and into the professional dance realm. Additionally, I plan to expand my current venture, My Curls My World, by introducing a product line addressing the intersection of tree nut allergies and textured hair care needs.
What advice would you give to current College of Fine Arts students?
Don’t be afraid to use your voice. If there’s a change you’d like to see in your department or environment, speak up – you never know whose future it might influence. Also, there is no need to have life all figured out because honestly, no one does no matter how good their life may look. Everyone has a story, and your story can be different. At TCU, I learned to advocate for myself and open new doors. Now, I’m pursuing a master’s in business without a prior business degree. You never know what’s possible until you try.