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At the front desk of the Office of Student Experience in Cromer Student Center, communications major Ace Peake ’28 knows everyone by name. Students, staff and faculty pass by, calling greetings as if checking in with a familiar friend. Peake smiles and responds, directing visitors, solving problems and making campus life a little smoother for anyone who walks through the doors.

“This is what college is for,” Peake said. “Why be here and not get involved? There’s so much you can do to make the experience better for yourself and others.”

�鶹���� has been a dream school for Peake since junior year of high school. Theatre opportunities, school size, mascot and colors drew interest, but inclusivity sealed the decision. 

“When the information card asked for pronouns, I had never seen that before. It made �鶹���� feel welcoming right away,” Peake said.

Before arriving on campus, challenges shaped Peake’s determination and resilience. Family housing instability during middle school and high school taught perseverance and resourcefulness. “Experiencing that taught me that one moment or one thing doesn’t define me,” Peake said. “I learned to use available resources, manage finances and make the most of every opportunity.”

Academics reinforced that philosophy. Communications coursework sparked a passion for public relations, particularly crisis management. A first-year public relations class included a mock campaign for Dove, highlighting inclusivity and body positivity, and a case study on Taco Bell’s handling of a public crisis. 

“I like the challenge of problem-solving in real time, and I like the idea of helping people through a time of need,” Peake said. 

Peake’s campus involvement has spanned multiple roles, including working at the Office of Student Experience and previously serving as a resident assistant. Peake’s future plans include serving as an orientation leader and presiding over Pride Club. Work outside �鶹���� includes a nursery assistant position at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and an independent nail tech business, with one set featured in Cantos in 2025.

“I’ve been told �鶹���� is better because I’m here,” Peake said. “Students have said I helped them get out of their dorm, figure out the career center or learn about student life programs. Some even became resident assistants because of my influence.”

Study abroad plans are part of Peake’s next steps. Greece is the target for a summer program offering free housing and meals, which allows earning credits while staying on track to graduate in 2028.

Balancing classes, work, and extracurricular commitments requires selectivity and time management. “College teaches you your balance,” Peake said. “You learn what to handle and what to let go. Experiences matter more than accolades.”