A Q & A with New Alumni Payton Willhite, Jordyn Lassiter, and Katherine Warstler

Payton Willhite
2024 Graduate of the Department of English’s B.A. Program
She/her/hers

Jordyn Lassiter
2024 Graduate of the School of Journalism and Strategic Media’s B.A. Program
She/her/hers

Katherine Warstler
2024 Graduate of the Sam M. Walton College’s B.A. Business Program
She/her/hers

Payton Willhite, left.

In this conversation, three recent U of A graduates – who also happen to have been incredibly talented, amazing, and indispensable members of our college communications team – talk about the value of their degrees, their most memorable college experiences, advice they’d give to current students, what life after commencement looks like, and more new things up next on the horizon.

Our Fulbright College Communications and Creative Services team and the entire Dean’s Office congratulates Payton Willhite, Jordyn Lassiter, and Katherine Warstler on their graduation, and we are so excited to see the wonderful things each will accomplish next!

Jordyn Lassiter.

Q: Tell us about your academic passions, research and/or what you studied within the college. What excites you about this?

Payton: With an English major, Anthropology minor, and having been part of the Honor’s College, my journey in Fulbright College has been an enriching experience. My college years have been dedicated to nurturing my love for writing, which began long before I stepped onto campus. Through immersive creative writing workshops, in-depth literature courses, and numerous essay assignments, I’ve not only honed my skills but also discovered new dimensions of storytelling and expression. The unwavering support and encouragement from my professors and mentors have been invaluable in shaping me into the writer I am today. While Anthropology wasn’t initially my focal point, the diverse array of courses I’ve taken within this field has sparked a profound interest in human history and culture. I’m eager to carry this passion forward and am immensely grateful for the transformative experiences and insights gained throughout my academic journey.

Katherine Warstler, left.

Jordyn: I studied Multimedia Storytelling and Production within the School of Journalism and Strategic Media. I really enjoyed this major, because I am pursuing a career in Sports Media.

Katherine: I completed my undergrad degree in the Walton College where I majored in both business marketing and human resources management. Through my course content and the energy of my professors I found a passion for learning about consumer behavior and digital marketing. I love that these avenues of marketing combine human psychology with strategic thinking and technical skills. Having the opportunity to support my creativity and innovation with analytical strategies has truly been the best of both worlds and I feel so grateful to have spent these three years developing my skill set in those areas.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your career goals and plans for after graduation?

Payton Willhite.

Payton: Throughout my college journey, internships have been pivotal in shaping my career aspirations. Among these, one standout experience was within Fulbright College, where the Communications team has not only nurtured my talents but also instilled in me the importance of pursuing passion in one’s career. Now, as a Digital and Content Support Specialist with the same team post-graduation, I’m eager to continue contributing to Fulbright College and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead!

Jordyn: After graduation, I am working in Digital Producing with ESPN Podcasts. My career goals are being a sideline reporter for NBA/MLB and maybe one day earning my J.D. degree to represent media companies and athletes.

Katherine: Following graduation, I have accepted a full-time position working at International Paper in Sales! I am excited to work in a dynamic environment, form expertise in my specialized field, and to make the most of all the personal and professional growth my career will help me develop. My long-term career goal is to transition into a leadership or executive role.

Jordyn Lassiter.

Q: What were some of your favorite memories of your time at the college and why?

Payton: The friendships and professional connections I have made during my time here at the U of A are memories I will cherish for a lifetime. I will also always remember receiving my first publication opportunity in the Diamond Line and sharing my writing proudly with my peers for the first time in my life. My father was also a U of A alumnus, so it has been so fun to attend Razorback games and explore campus with him. Completing and defending my thesis, which was my first full collection of poetry, was likewise the highlight of my academic career.

Jordyn: My favorite memories are working with the Razorbacks and seeing “behind the scenes” of gameday broadcasts.

Katherine: There are so many great memories that I have made here at the U of A! Meeting my lifelong friends, getting accepted as an Intern for the Fulbright College, and spreading myself academically has made my college experience one that I will cherish forever. Being a member of Alpha Chi Omega was also something that I am so thankful I got to experience. It helped me meet many of my best friends and gave me the chance to lead my chapter as the Philanthropy and Service Chair, where I got to share my passion for community outreach.

Katherine Warstler, middle.

Q: Now that you’ve reached the graduation milestone, what advice would you give to current students striving to do the same?

Payton: Reflecting on my college journey, I’ve realized the immense pressure that perfectionism can impose in this environment. If I could offer advice to my past self and fellow students, it would be to prioritize self-compassion. Balancing the drive for achievement with realistic expectations is crucial. College presents challenges, but they’re surmountable. Looking back, I see that the assignments I agonized over for weeks are now distant memories. I wish I had embraced the inevitability of mistakes and understood that imperfection is a natural part of growth.

Jordyn: Take everyday one day at time. It goes by fast, and you need to learn to let things roll off your back.

Payton Willhite.

Katherine: I encourage students to always find new ways to challenge themselves, both personally and professionally. Whether that be joining a club that interests you, asking new friends from class to grab coffee and hangout, or developing relationships with professors and individuals outside your normal network – I believe saying yes to these types of opportunities that may be outside of your comfort zone end up being so rewarding and transformative. With that, I would also say to not be afraid of perceived failures because if you never try something you cannot grow and may end up limiting yourself from reaching your full potential.

Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of work or the university?

Payton: At home, my time revolves around my three ‘babies’ – Carmen my puppy, and my feline duo, Mouse and Gus. I also adore diving into books, experimenting in the kitchen with cooking and baking, and participating in yoga or pilates. Thrifting is another passion of mine, as there’s nothing quite like spending the weekend sifting through antiques. You can also often find me scouting for the perfect iced latte or indulging in a reality TV marathon.

Jordyn Lassiter.

Jordyn: When I’m not cheering on the Razorbacks I like to cheer on the Houston Astros and the Dallas Mavericks. I also like to spend my summers in the Fayetteville Public Library and reading poolside.

Katherine: When I am able to, I love traveling, hiking, and being outdoors. One of my bucket list items is to hike every national park in America! I am also a big romance reader and movie connoisseur, so a lot of my down time is spent doing that – if anyone ever needs a book or TV show recommendation let me know! And spending time with my friends and family is always something that will fill my cup and is something I prioritize.

Q: What’s up next on the horizon for you?

Payton: I am incredibly excited for my continued opportunities here at Fulbright College, and plan on pursuing an M.B.A next fall. In my spare time, I want to continue publishing my writing and further integrate myself within the Northwest Arkansas community!

Katherine Warstler.

Jordyn: Starting in June I start my work with ESPN. For now, I am in a remote role. Eventually, I would like to move to their office in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Katherine: I start at International Paper soon, and my long-term career goals include transitioning into a leadership or executive role where I can serve as a mentor, help to drive the overall performance of a team, or collaborate with other departments to align sales strategies with overall business goals!

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or let readers know?

Payton: I want to thank all the professors, peers, and mentors who supported me throughout my college journey. You are the reason I now face my adult life without fear, and I cannot express my gratitude for all you have done for me!

Jordyn: My biggest tip to scoring a job after graduation is INTERNSHIPS and being involved on campus! To set yourself apart from applicants you need to be graduating with some industry experience already.

Q: Do you have any social media accounts you’d like for us to tag you in when this story posts?

Payton: You can follow me on LinkedIn @Payton Willhite!

Jordyn: @Jordynklassiter

Katherine: Instagram: @Katherinewarstler and LinkedIn: Katherine Warstler | LinkedIn