Annabelle Mighton ’28
Hometown: Brimfield, OH
Integrative Exercise Science Major, Performing Arts Minor
Connecting with people leaves just as big of an impact as academics do.
When Annabelle Mighton began her college search, she didn’t have to look far to find her perfect fit. “When I started looking for colleges to attend, I remembered the small campus I used to drive by on the way to my grandparents’ house—Hiram,” she said. “Even though my campus tour was on a cold and rainy day when nothing seemed to go right, I had a smile on my face the whole time and knew this was my next home.”
Now a first-year student majoring in integrative exercise science with a minor in performing arts, Annabelle is already embracing all that Hiram has to offer. Her favorite academic experience so far has been Anatomy and Physiology with Dr. Koehnle—a course that challenged her but also shaped her study habits and determination. “It was the most challenging class I had taken, but I learned the most from it,” she said. “Dr. Koehnle guided us not only through the material, but also in how to succeed as students.”
getting involved
Beyond the classroom, Annabelle is deeply involved in campus life. She serves as president of the Dance Club, vice president of the Theatre Guild, and media relations officer for the Integrative Exercise Science Club (IESC). She’s particularly proud of rebuilding the Dance Club, which welcomes students of all experience levels. “Our main goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where people can learn through movement,” she said. “It’s a fun way to stay in shape and ease off stress.”
Annabelle also works for the Theatre Department as a tech worker, where she builds sets, works with lighting, and paints. “Working with the tech side has taught me so many useful life skills, from simple woodworking to using machinery,” she shared.
When she’s not studying or leading a club, Annabelle enjoys relaxing in one of her favorite campus spots—the Coleman Room in Gerstacker Hall. “It’s peaceful, full of plants, and you can look out the window to see the beautiful walkways,” she said.
Outside of academics and activities, Annabelle’s passions for creativity and connection shine through. “I love taking time to do small crafts and express myself,” she said. “Connecting with people leaves just as big of an impact as academics do.”
looking ahead
After Hiram, Annabelle plans to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She credits her Hiram experience with helping her build confidence and apply what she’s learning to real-world situations. “Hiram emphasizes student leadership, which builds professional confidence,” she said. “The classes focus on application to the real world, and most of what I’ve learned I can apply to future experiences.”
Her favorite Hiram memory so far? Attending the Apple Cider Festival. “The cider was delicious, and it was great to relax with new and familiar faces—it felt like being in the countryside.”
When asked to describe her Hiram experience in three words, Annabelle chose uplifting, engaging, and grounding—a perfect reflection of her journey so far.
