Mayfield chases dreams in arts program
Senior art major Ryan Mayfield’s path took a turn soon after he began attending Waynesburg University – he had originally planned on majoring in environmental science.
Despite not coming in as an art major, the support of his girlfriend and his determination to succeed is what pushed Mayfield.
It was the encouragement of his girlfriend that allowed Mayfield to make the switch to something he had loved since his childhood.
“It was basically a hobby of mine since I was little drawing Pokémon. When I came here I was environmental science, and I learned it wasn’t for me like everyone else who switches,” said Mayfield. “When I came to the art department I was more open-minded. I could think creatively and express myself the way I am and actually relax and not have really stressful things to worry about. I could push my self as an artist because I grew up doing it.”
Andrew Heisey, assistant professor of art, thinks that Mayfiled’s decision to make the switch was the point that got his Waynesburg career to a leaping start.
“I think changing to an art major was a significant change for him,” said Heisey. “There’s a lot of pressure whether or not to do it, but his heart was really in it. He really had a drive for it and he dove right in and [started] producing. You could see his skill growing, and he has grown a lot.”
When Ryan thinks back, it wouldn’t have been possible with out the strength from his girlfriend Mallory Stajnrajh.
“We’ve been dating for almost five years so she has been there from the start, said Mayfield. “She was there when I switched my major the first day of college and all that stuff. She backed me up; she pushes me when I need it so she is always there for me.”
A native of nearby Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, Mayfield chose Waynesburg because of its locality and his familiarity with the school.
It was then Mayfield’s commitment to the program that Heisey said led him to find so much confidence and grow.
“One thing that is particularly special about Ryan is he works very hard,” said Heisey.” “He’s here early in the morning and he stays late and gets so much done during the day. He has been a good leader for the group.”
Heisey used two words to describe Mayfield: hardworking and dependable.
Mayfield has been a part of many activities while at Waynesburg, such as the new art club, the club lacrosse team and even spent some time with wrestling and the computer club.
However, it was his senior art show that will leave the lasting image of Waynesburg in his mind.
“I think the memorable moment at Waynesburg was my Senior Art Show and being able to see people come out and enjoy my art,” said Mayfield.
As for his plans for after graduation, Mayfield plans to take a year to himself and decide on possibly attending grad school, while continuing to practice his art.
Regardless of what Mayfield decides to pursue, Heisey believes he is ready to take on the next step.
“We have talked about different ways of looking for work depending on what his goals are and where he wants to go, kind of different ways to get his name out there. He has already started online selling things to get his name shown,” said Heisey. “We have also talked about apprenticeships and getting jobs in different fields that could lead to things in the future.”