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Bulzomi excels on and off stage at Adams State University

ALAMOSA, CO. (June 15, 2023) – Jamie Bulzomi from Eaton, Colo., graduated Summa Cum Laude from Adams State University, Alamosa, Colo., during the Spring 2023 Commencement Ceremony on May 13, 2023. Bulzomi earned a Bachelor of Arts in theatre and a Bachelor of Arts in outdoor education and stewardship. Adams State awarded 265 degrees.

“The smaller campus allowed me to connect with professors, which in return gave me more opportunities to learn and do more professional work outside of the classroom.”

A double major, Bulzomi appreciated the professors support in her personal and educational life.

Curt Howell, M.Ed., assistant professor and program coordinator outdoor education and stewardship, met with Bulzomi to discuss her degree plan, and along with encouraging her goals challenged her to meet her potential. “Curt was also a listening ear and an empathizer when my brother was critically ill.”

Her theatre professors, including George McConnell, Ph.D., assistant professor of theatre; John Taylor, Ph.D., professor of theatre and School of Visual and Performing Arts director; and Jenna Neilsen, M.F.A., professor of theatre; encouraged creativity and were very cognizant of students’ mental health. “George gives incredible feedback that is helpful to my career, and he never sugarcoats his thoughts, which always leads to personal growth. He is the type of professor who is willing to use his personal time to help his students. George has also given me two opportunities to perform theatre professionally outside of the classroom and is another example of both a friend and a teacher.”

Having personal relationships with instructors builds respectful relationships and made Bulzomi want to work even harder for their classes. “They are understanding people and give great lectures. They are also talented in their study and know how to effectively communicate their lessons.”

Bulzomi is extremely grateful for all the scholarships she received. “The scholarships I received and the professors I worked for are the driving forces behind my work ethic and success in school.”

By maximizing class loads and taking summer courses, Bulzomi graduated with a double major in four years with little student loan debt.

The outdoor education and stewardship major required an internship. Bulzomi fulfilled this requirement in New York, which connected her to others in the outdoor industry. She also worked for the City of Alamosa and as a work-study for the Adams State Adventure Program. “I was promoted to trip manager within two years of working for them.” When the ASAP supervisor left, Bulzomi, along with other students and an intern, managed the program. “That experience boosted my confidence, and is a great resume builder. I lead trips in the field, organized events, scheduled students, ran training meetings, and much more.”

Bulzomi matured emotionally and intellectually as a person throughout the years. “College allowed me to become more independent, and it was critical in developing life skills that will carry me into the future; it also furthered my technical and human skills, which are worthwhile attributes of becoming a well-rounded person.”

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Pictured, Jamie Bulzomi starred in “Little Women,” as Jo March, her senior year at Adams State University in Alamosa, Colo. She also had a part in “Life is a Dream.” Both were major productions directed by Adams State theatre professors.