Name: Jacob Cribbs
Age: 21
Major: Literature with an emphasis in fiction and poetry
Hometown: Arroyo Grande, CA
UCSC college: Kresge
Favorite class or professor and why?
The best class I've ever taken was called Native American Indian Music and Thought. We read an abundance of Native American Indian creation myths, followed a line of American history not to be found in most textbooks, distinguished specific regional instruments and vocals by ear, were exposed to both ongoing political and ethical dilemmas surrounding Native American life-ways, and also delved deep into North American ethnomusicology.
Most memorable experience at UCSC?
Freshman year. There's absolutely nothing like being on your own for the first time. Nothing.
Favorite spot on campus and why?
The track at the East Field House and the memorial bench at the edge of the East Field. It's my favorite spot on campus because the greater Monterey Bay wraps around the vista. It's a great place to just sit and watch the sailboats pixelating the big blue screen of the Pacific Ocean. It's also a great place to just sit back and relax.
How has UCSC shaped you?
I have so many friends who seem to have spent their college experiences at other universities cultivating a sense of extreme competition in whatever field they've chosen to pursue. Here at UCSC, I've learned that I don't always need to be flying at jet-speed or competing with peers. I feel very lucky to have been shaped into a type of student who is well-rounded, willing to work cooperatively, and who can approach multiple disciplines with sensitivity and respect.
What are your future plans?
This summer I'm set to be an acting intern for Shakespeare Santa Cruz, our resident professional theater community. Next year, I'll be working on a graduate-level certification program with the UCSC Theater Arts Department. I'll have a dual focus on both acting and playwriting. After finishing both programs, I'll apply to graduate school. My hope is to gain an M.F.A. in acting and/or a Ph.D. in social anthropology. The idea is to end up teaching and/or advancing certain aspects of performative (or performance) anthropology.
How did you choose your college, and how has your college affected your education?
I chose Kresge because I was ready to manage my own living space; ready to have my own apartment freshman year. The faculty and staff there have propelled me and supported me in numerous ways, going above and beyond their job descriptions to help me succeed. What I'll take away most from Kresge is the idea that community and cooperation are vital aspects of not only student life, but life in general. I'm so glad I was placed there.
Accomplishments:
- Kresge community assistant
- Kresge core class academic assistant
- Admissions guide
- UCSC Service Award winner
- Humanities Undergraduate Research Award winner
- UCSC Dharma Grace Playwriting Award recipient
- Acting intern for Shakespeare Santa Cruz 2009
- Chancellor's Undergraduate Intern for the Creative Writing Program
