The TCU College of Fine Arts is preparing to graduate an outstanding spring 2024 class. Graduates including Avery Kokinda from the Department of Design, Nikkie Galindo from the School of Music and Savannah DeCrow from the Department of Theatre, share their postgraduate plans to “Lead On, Creatively.”
Avery Kokinda
Department of Design
Avery Kokinda
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
I immediately fell in love with TCU when I visited during my senior year of high school. The campus is so beautiful, and everyone I met was approachable and friendly.
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
Throughout my time at TCU, I’ve worked in various positions both on and around campus, but my favorite has been at the Department of Design’s Fabrication Lab. I enjoy seeing the process of student projects, from the early stages to the final prints.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
Associate Professor Yvonne Cao had the most significant impact on my work. Her class pushed me to work my hardest and helped me discover my love for package design.
What’s next for you?
I will be staying in Fort Worth to join Schaefer Advertising Co. as a creative intern.
Nikkie Galindo
School of Music
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
I chose to attend TCU because of the great opportunities in the School of Music, the professors and the community. After hearing about the wonderful things students were doing in the School of Music, I decided to audition. Experiencing the vibrant community and passion for the arts on campus solidified my decision to attend.
Nikkie Galindo
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
I was involved with the Music Educators Organization, serving as a member, secretary, and president. I was also a School of Music ambassador and interned for the TCU Summer Music Camp. Outside of music, I was a member of the student-led dance organization, Calling in Action.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
My professors served as role models and always supported my endeavors. My studio professor, Shauna Thompson, inspired me to reach my fullest, always encouraging me to pursue new experiences and attain my goals. My ensemble directors, Bobby Francis and Germán Gutiérrez, created an environment of growth and high standards in our ensembles while also supporting my personal goals.
What’s next for you?
I’ll be attending Florida State University to pursue my master’s degree in flute performance as a graduate assistant in the flute studio.
Savannah DeCrow
Department of Theatre & John V. Roach Honors College
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
TCU has everything I could ever want in a school. Its theatre program is unmatched, providing rigorous conservatory-style training within a liberal arts environment. But beyond that, I love that you can immerse yourself in the rich campus life while still having access to the bustling city of Fort Worth.
Savannah DeCrow
Tell us about your internships and involvement during your time at TCU.
I served as Benefit Chair and President of Alpha Psi Omega, the theatre honor society, and was a member of Alpha Kappa Delta. I sang with the Cantiamo Women’s Choir, participated in the John V. Roach Honors College, and served as a Resident Assistant for two years at Milton Daniel Hall and then at Clark Hall.
What’s next for you?
Immediately after graduation, I’ll spend the summer in Bigfork, MT., playing Elle Woods in Legally Blonde at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. Upon returning home, I intend to work, audition and train while pursuing performance opportunities on cruise ships.
What advice would you give to current College of Fine Arts students?
Get involved in as many things as you can at TCU! Clubs and organizations on campus will provide you with friendships and memories you never knew you needed. College doesn’t last forever, so throw yourself wholeheartedly into the four years you have here and soak it all in.