2023 Homecoming Golf Cart Parade
Harriet Treverton is a familiar face to many at the College of the Arts. With one foot in both the School of Music and the Ernest G. Welch School of Art and Design, she stayed busy with band practice, Art History classes, and work. If anyone could balance it, Harriet could. Because we have worked with her in the Art & Design main office, we saw first hand how hardworking, helpful, and positive she can be in high-energy environments. We were lucky to sit down with Treverton to talk about her time here at Georgia State: more about her involvement, advice she has for future grads, and what she will miss most!
Welch School of Art & Design: What brought you to Georgia State and why did you choose the Art History concentration?
Harriet Treverton: I've always wanted to live in the city. My dad went to college in Central London, and I grew up hearing his stories about college in a big city. When I looked into applying for university, GSU stood out due to its downtown location, and I thought it would be a good fit. I've always been passionate about art, and after taking a few Art History classes in high school, I decided to pursue it in university.
WSAD: Who are some of the faculty members you enjoyed learning under (and/or alternatively, can you talk about one of your favorite classes?)
Harriet Treverton: I have been so lucky to take multiple classes with Dr. Siegler and Dr. Harpster throughout my time here at GSU. Through their classes, I was introduced to many fascinating works of art I would never have interacted with. Their love for the arts stoked my own passion. I am so glad I had the opportunity to learn under both of them.
I would be remiss to not mention the school of music faculty. In particular, Professor Reid, who I have been fortunate to work with through all 4 years of my time at GSU in concert and marching band.
WSAD: We have to ask: do you have a favorite artist or movement?
Harriet Treverton: A difficult question! I've been exposed to so many artists and movements during my time in the Art History program; it's hard to pick a favorite. As of late, I really enjoy the contemporary abstract works of Julie Mehretu.
WSAD: You have been a part of GSU Panther Marching Band. What instrument did you play, how long have you played it, and what was your role?
Harriet Treverton: During my time in the GSU panther marching band, I played marching bass drum and served as percussion captain during the 23 and 24 seasons. Outside of marching band, I was a percussionist in the GSU concert band. I've been playing percussion since the 6th grade.
WSAD: What's one (or more) of your favorite memories from the GSU Panther Band? And what will you miss most about that culture?
Harriet Treverton: By far my favorite memory from my time in the panther band was performing in the 2022 tournament of roses parade in Pasadena California. Some of the most dear friendships I've made in college have been through the GSU marching band. We were truly a family; moving forward, I will miss it greatly.
WSAD: You worked at the front desk in the Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design for the duration of your time at Georgia State! Did you learn anything about the arts through that experience?
Harriet Treverton: I've learned so much during my time working in the School of Art & Design. I've been able to gain unique insights into the work that goes into running a School of Art & Design. From managing the front office to helping students with a wide variety of questions, I've treasured my time in the office and the opportunity to meet the wonderful people I worked with.
WSAD: You have managed to balance so much during your time here: a job, classes, marching band—Do you have any advice for incoming students who want to seize opportunities and take on an ambitious workload?
Harriet Treverton: Be organized, and be sure to make time for the things that are important to you. I knew going into college I would want to be a member of the marching band, so every decision I made in terms of classes and workload, I made to ensure I would still get to enjoy the things I love.
WSAD: Commencement is just around the corner, when you get to walk across the stage with close friends and peers! What are you going to take away from your Georgia State experience?
My time at GSU has been wonderful. From making incredible memories to continuing my passions in music to making lifelong friends in the band and tabletop club to gaining valuable experience in the School of Art & Design, I will treasure the 3 and a half years I spent at GSU and carry the memories I made with me for a lifetime.