Bloom Where You’re Planted
“Bloom where you’re planted.” It’s advice that Brian Neely strives to live by. It is a mindset about making the most of where you are at and not letting circumstances keep you from making an impact.
A senior arts management major from Gary, Indiana, Brian came to Midland with inner conflicts and insecurities that stemmed from his high school experience. However, he credits his experience in college and the people he has surrounded himself with as turning points for overcoming those insecurities.
“Going through college, I have had the opportunity to grow as a person, come out of my shell, and connect myself to many great things. I had been through a lot before college, but it has only made me stronger and more resilient than before. I am blessed for the course of life that I have gone on.”
Since being at Midland, Brian has found himself involved in a variety of different areas on campus including Midland Activities Crew, Alpha Psi Omega, BSU, theatre, choir, and chapel. Brian also works in admissions and as an RA in residence life. Through his involvement, Brian has a lot of pride in the strides he has made as a person.
“I am most proud of becoming an RA my junior year because it has been a goal of mine since freshman year. I am also most proud of playing a lead role in Romeo and Juliet where I played Benvolio!”
Though Brian encourages involvement on campus, he wants to make sure freshmen realize that it shouldn’t come at the expense of academics. He wants students to utilize the resources provided to them to overcome obstacles they all face. To him, that aligns with the Warrior spirit.
“ To me, being a Warrior means overcoming obstacles and seeing challenges through to the end.”
Brian hopes to carry this mentality after graduation. His growth at Midland is setting him up for success in his future career in the arts, hopefully in the children’s theatre.
Brian Neely is a senior arts management major from Gary, Indiana. To share your story or nominate a friend, email social@midlandu.edu or post using #FacesofMidland.
