“Being human to me means being number one, authentic, being yourself,” said senior communication major Jameson Ollison. “No one can be you, only you can be you.”

Raised just minutes from NC State’s campus in Raleigh, Ollison, whose father is an NC State alum, says the university has always been a familiar presence in his life and has impacted him in ways he never thought possible. In turn, he notes, he’s left a mark on it. 

Ollison speaks openly about challenges growing up and describes himself as “an open book” who “loves talking to people.” He says he has connected with someone in all 21 states he has visited. 

For Ollison, being human also means connection, honesty, and making sure others feel seen and heard. “If we would embrace knowing that the person to our right and left is our neighbor, we will see a lot of progress,” he notes.

Humans of CHASS

Senior communication major Jameson Ollison talks about what it means to be human.