Spotlight: Elisabeth McHugh
When Elisabeth McHugh thinks of Fairmount, one word comes to mind - “Happy!”
Throughout her entire childhood, Elisabeth participated in dance classes at Fairmount where she ultimately found life-long friends and a creative passion that has led her towards a bright future.
Currently a junior at Ohio University, Elisabeth is studying applied nutrition, biology, and diabetes to become a registered dietitian. She credits Fairmount with many life lessons like how to work with others as a team, knowing when to take initiative, how to find supportive friendships, and never forgetting to have fun in the process.
“I learned that when you are in the process of creating something, it is good to be serious but also it is important to have fun while doing it! I take my academics seriously but I always make time to do fun things with my friends!
I think the most valuable lesson I learned from Fairmount is to surround yourself with others who are likeminded and will support you along the way! I know I experienced this throughout my whole time at Fairmount.”
One of Elisabeth’s fondest memories is from her senior year. She and fellow seniors and friends Meghan Bhanoo and Brooke Misch painted canvases at home imitating paintings that were on display in the upstairs gallery. They secretly hung them in the gallery the following week complete with placards and waited to see if their artistic additions would be noticed. After a week, they gave their secret away and had a good laugh with their classmates and instructor who hadn’t noticed!
Another fond memory of Elisabeth’s is when Northeast Ohio was hit with a bad snowstorm leaving most of the county without power. Fairmount had remained open and combined students of all levels to improvise dances by candlelight prompted by themes written on folded pieces of paper. It was such a uniquely creative and memorable experience for Elisabeth and fellow peers who had braved the storm that evening.
“I just had the greatest time at Fairmount, I honestly would give anything to go back to those days. The people make the place, that’s for sure! ”
Since leaving Fairmount, Elisabeth has continued to develop her love of dance and movement at OU by starting a new class called Cardio Sculpt. It combines cardio dance and strength training for college students just like her.
When asked what advice she would give to current Fairmount students, Elisabeth said,
“Have fun at Fairmount and cherish the days there while you can! Some of my best memories are from Fairmount and I wouldn’t trade them for the world.
Lean on your friends when you need them and even when you leave Fairmount, keep in contact with your Fairmount friends! You never know how you will end up connected later in life. ”
This spring, Elisabeth is looking forward to studying abroad in Sicily! We look forward to reconnecting with her after her travels and hear about her experiences abroad.
