Maggie Wells came to Kearney from more than 800 miles away, drawn by an opportunity that combined athletics and academics.
The senior from Conroe, Texas, chose UNK because it offered a chance to compete in the pool while pursuing a degree that matched her creative interests. Four years later, she’s preparing to graduate summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in multimedia and minors in media production and strategic communication.
During her time on campus, Wells built a diverse portfolio centered on storytelling and digital media. She served as video director for The Antelope student newspaper, created content for UNK Communications and Marketing and contributed to research exploring connections between media and science. Each experience added a new layer to her understanding of how visual storytelling can inform, engage and connect audiences.
Outside the classroom, Wells found community through UNK swimming and diving, the Honors Program and her work with fellow student journalists and creators. Those relationships, along with mentorship from faculty, helped shape both her college experience and future goals.
Now, as she looks ahead to graduate school and a career in video production, Wells leaves UNK with a strong foundation in creative skills and collaboration, along with memories that will last a lifetime.
How would you describe your time at UNK?
My time at UNK has been an important part of my life that will help shape my future. It’s been unique and irreplaceable.
My time here allowed me to not only grow my skills, focus on my talents and improve my weaknesses, but it has also given me a community. Being part of the newspaper staff created a network of students who are just as passionate as me. Being part of the UNK swim team also created a community of hardworking women who pushed me in other ways.
I need to mention Dr. Mary Harner, as well, because she also shaped the community I created at UNK. She mentored me and has become a trusted adviser during my time here.
What got you interested in multimedia?
The idea that every company or organization needs some sort of media presence, whether it is commercials, graphics, websites, social, etc. Everyone needs some form of media to be successful. I liked the idea that I could go into any field I wanted and use the skills I enjoy.
As for video specifically, I have always loved the idea of being part of behind-the-scenes work for a movie, music video or any sort of production that tells a story and/or sends an important message.
What are the strengths of UNK’s multimedia program?
Student-faculty connections. Because communication is a smaller department, it has allowed me to really get to know my professors and build a strong relationship with each and every one of them. I’m very comfortable talking to them as advisers and mentors and discussing things like what to do after graduation, class questions, general advice and so much more.
Talk about your time on the swim team. What did that opportunity mean to you?
Being on the swim team meant I could do something I love throughout my college education. It also meant I had dozens of built-in best friends. Community has always been a big part of why I love swim, and the swim culture at UNK is unique, fun and ambitious. In and out of the pool, all the girls have taught me valuable life lessons: how to work in a team, how to want something and go for it, how to handle bad days gracefully, how to support others, and so much more. It’s not the sport that teaches you the lessons; it’s the people in the sport who really shape what you get out of the experience.
Your younger sister is a Loper now. How cool is that?
I absolutely LOVE that my sister, Ellen, goes to UNK. Obviously, I wanted her to go to UNK, but I also wanted her to pick the best fit for her. That just happened to be UNK! Swimming with her has been a great memory. She is one of my best friends, and I am glad I got to end my swim career with her by my side.
What’s your favorite UNK memory?
I have so many good memories at UNK, but one of my all-time favorites is probably doing the photoshoot for the 2025 April Fools’ edition of The Antelope. The theme was “Love Is Blind,” which is one of my favorite reality TV shows. We all got to dress up and have fun reenacting “Love Is Blind” scenes. This was super entertaining. Honestly, all the meetings with The Antelope staff were always super upbeat and fun!
I also don’t want to exclude swimming. I have so many great memories from the years I swam, like traveling with the team and having fun at swim meets.
What advice do you have for current and future Lopers?
Make mistakes and learn from them. I would also say make connections and be involved. I know this is generic, but I wish I had made connections with my professors sooner, so go bother them while they have office hours and be the student they will never forget (in a good way). Be involved in interesting organizations. I wish I joined the newspaper staff sooner. Lastly, I would say you only have one undergraduate experience, so make it an experience you are proud of.
PHOTOS BY ERIKA PRITCHARD AND RACHEL OSTDIEK
UNK COMMUNICATIONS
