2025/26 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Katelyn Pottebaum

How/why did you choose your major?

When I saw that MCAD offers Comic Art unlike so many other colleges, I was surprised because I never really thought of it as being an option. And as I got to thinking about my own personal work, I have done more comics than anything, and most importantly, I really love the storytelling aspect that comics have.

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted my best comic work. Most of my art in general, has this bubbly, cartoony style, and even with my stories, I like to have them be a little humorous. Also, I really, really enjoy using very flat, saturated colors.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

My art teacher recommended it to me as a good option, and I was really tempted by how unlike other schools, they had a comics program. I would also say I live far from a lot of art colleges, and although it’s a four hour drive, it is not too far for me.

What are your plans for your senior year? And beyond?

For senior year, I really want to work on a long-form comic. I also want to try tabling more when I get the chance and just making use of the resources the school gives me. As for the future, my passion project would be having my own graphic novel, but for now, I am just aiming to improve my art.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

I love the people. I love being able to have friends who are just as passionate about art as I am. I love being able to see all the talented work from my peers. I also love my amazing teachers, who have helped me learn so much.

What inspires you?

Everything inspires my work. People. Hobbies. Media. However, specific comics I love and heavily look at when I draw would be Snapdragon, Scott Pilgrim, and The Girl from the Sea.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

My Fish Girl comic was one of my favorites because I really loved getting to do a comic that was so heavily traditional unlike most of my digital work. The assignment was for my materials and techniques class, so I wanted to experiment with alcohol markers and dip pens. This comic features this air-headed girl named Coralia, who lives in the sea. One day she realizes she can visit the surface. When she arrives at the shore, Ophelia finds her, and their friendship begins…

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

I have been really into this kdrama called Twinkling Watermelon I have been watching with my roommate. It happened one day while I was doing my homework while they were watching it, and I accidentally started watching it. Currently, we are still trying to finish it, but it’s slowly becoming one of my favorite kdramas.

What's the best thing you've found on the Free Shelf?

I haven’t checked the free shelf as nearly as I should, but I remember the day it had stacks upon stacks upon stacks of pepsi. I try not to drink soda, but I remember taking a pack home that night.

Lastly, do you have a favorite question we didn't ask? Tell us and answer it!

What's your favorite meal that you would eat on your death bed?
If I had to choose, I would definitely choose Hot Cheetos and Mountain Dew. My obsession with Hot Cheetos has been unwavering since I was a child, but I have had to ban them from my pantry because of this. They aren't the healthiest snack ever. I've been sober from them for a few weeks, but I still think about them...

Katelyn Pottebaum, Love Wars