Just one day before the start of classes at ONU in fall 2020, Jeffrey “Jacob” Bassitt had a change of heart. He had been readying to go to Ohio State University and major in medicine, but a “gut feeling” was leading him “home,” he said, to major in theatre at Ohio Northern University.
“I didn’t trust myself, my talent, and my abilities enough to choose being a theatre major at first,” he said. “I was playing it safe as some would say, but then I realized with the little time I have here on Earth, I wanted to do something that not only makes me happy, but hopefully other people too.”
Jacob was a “townie” who took CCP classes at ONU when he was in high school. He was very familiar with ONU and all it had to offer. “The community, the close-knit environment, and the many ways to get involved was just something I couldn’t pass up,” he said.
A double major in theatre and communications, Jacob took full advantage of the amazing opportunities that ONU offers, including its guest artist program that brings renowned theatre professionals to campus to work with students. “Plus, there is benefit to a small school, small class sizes, more one-on-one instruction, and more opportunities to get cast and work on productions,” he said.
Jacob was involved in Student Senate, Polar Paws and the University Disciplinary Board. His greatest love, however, was being on stage. “I’m a sucker for the adrenaline rush of getting to perform for people,” he said. “I just really enjoy seeing how my performance impacts them.”
Northern’s theatre program set him up for success in a highly competitive field. He gained new confidence, skills and networking connections.
"I am proud to say that I wouldn’t have traded this experience for anything,” he says. “I take pride in the community and relationships we have as Polar Bears.”