Incoming Redbird Olivia Streeter had her sights set on becoming class valedictorian from her first day at Peoria Central High School.
Streeter knew how hard she would have to work to earn the highest GPA among her peers, but she was up to the challenge.
“From early on, I took all of my classes very seriously,” said Streeter. “I even doubled up on classes to improve my rank.”
Once Streeter reached her junior year, she was third in her class. At that point, Streeter shifted into a “game on” mindset to finish strong. Streeter went on to graduate high school with a 4.5 weighted GPA and as class valedictorian.
“It felt great to earn the honor,” said Streeter. “I knew that I could do it and I didn’t want to waste that potential. I’m very proud of myself.”
Streeter was active outside of class at Peoria Central High School. She edited the school’s yearbook and served as a photographer for athletic and school events. Streeter was a District 150 Student Board member, where she offered a student’s perspective on the issues and topics at hand. Additionally, Streeter worked with state Sen. Chuck Weaver’s Advisory Council and his 1000#’s Project, where she gained a greater knowledge of politics and volunteerism.
“I’m excited to major in mass media because I feel like it will allow me to have a wide range of opportunities after college. I don’t ever want to be limited in what I can do.”—Olivia Streeter
However, Streeter’s favorite high school extracurricular activity was speech team. Streeter participated on Peoria Central’s speech team all four years and was appointed the team’s co-captain in her senior year.
“Speech allowed me to fall in love with the art of communication,” said Streeter. “Speech inspired my major and cultivated the passion that I want to pursue for the rest of my life.”
Streeter is entering her freshman year at Illinois State University as a mass media major. When she visited the University, she had been impressed with the School of Communication as well as the campus and facilities. Streeter applied to seven other schools, but revisited Illinois State before making her final decision. She felt at home and ultimately chose to enroll here.
Streeter has received many prestigious awards and scholarships, including the Prescot E. Bloom Service Above Self Award, Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizenship Award, and the Rising Young Leader Award through the Women’s Fund Foundation. Streeter is also a member of the National Honor Society and a Sterling Merit recipient.
Streeter has big plans for her time at Illinois State. Streeter plans to get involved with a campus ministry, as her faith is an important part of her life. Additionally, she would like to work for the Office of Admissions. If the opportunity arises, she wants to gain broadcast experience with student-run TV-10 or WZND radio station.
Streeter is most excited to meet new people and to find her group of friends. “I can’t wait to have a fresh start and a chance to make new impressions.”
Streeter already has big plans for her life after graduation.
“I would like to write a book one day,” said Streeter. “That’s a big goal, but something I’ve always wanted to do.”
Her career goals include working for a company’s creative team, handling its social media and public relations, and entering the world of broadcast by becoming a TV or radio talent.
“I’m excited to major in mass media because I feel like it will allow me to have a wide range of opportunities after college,” said Streeter. “I don’t ever want to be limited in what I can do.”
Streeter is the second of five new Redbirds we will feature on News.IllinoisState.edu over the coming weeks.
Apply now for spring, summer, or fall 2020, or set up a visit to our campus.
