Get to Know Chyler
As Duke celebrates Student Employee Appreciation Week, meet Chyler Turner, a student employee in the John Hope Franklin Center.
April 8, 2025
-By Charles Givens
What’s your major and what sparked your interest in it?
- I’m majoring in Visual and Media Studies with minors in Computational Media and Computer Science. I’ve always loved storytelling and creating immersive experiences whether that was through writing, design or digital media. Once I got to Duke, I realized I didn’t have to choose between being creative and being technical, I could do both! My major lets me blend those passions and explore how media and tech shape the world around us.
What’s your favorite spot on Duke’s campus, and why?
- The Bryan Center walkway during golden hour. There’s something about that stretch seeing friends pass by, the sunlight hitting the trees just right and the energy on campus that makes me slow down and take it all in. It feels like the heartbeat of student life at Duke.
What’s a fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know?
- Most people don’t know that my dad was a preacher. It’s a part of my story that’s shaped how I speak, how I connect with people and how I carry my values in everything I do.
What is one thing most people don’t know about being a student at Duke?
- There’s a lot of pressure to seem like you’ve got it all figured out, but the truth is, most of us are still learning, growing and questioning things every day. Behind the polished resumes and packed schedules, there’s a real culture of self-discovery happening here.
What’s your favorite study spot or method?
- I’m a big fan of quiet early mornings with my journal, some tea and my laptop. I like to break work down into small chunks and time-block my day. My go-to study spot on campus is the Mary Lou Williams Center; it’s warm, welcoming and feels like a home away from home. I love the energy of the space and how it encourages both focus and community.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
- I’d choose teleportation, no question. As a student-athlete balancing classes, practices, and work, being able to instantly be anywhere would save so much time and let me show up fully in every space.
What’s your favorite place outside of Duke’s campus (in Durham or elsewhere)?
- Anywhere with good food and good people! I had to choose, I’d say the Durham Farmers’ Market on a sunny Saturday. It’s full of life, creativity and local flavor with just a good vibe all around.
What’s a book, movie or show you’ve recently enjoyed and why?
- I recently watched Paradise on Hulu and got hooked. It’s dramatic, intense and full of twists. I love shows that are just the right mix of wild and thought-provoking and this one had me bingeing episodes back-to-back.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of school and work?
- Outside of school and work, I love creating content for social media, especially when I get to mix creativity and humor. I’m also into cooking, interior design and writing. When I’m not doing any of that, I’m probably reading a thriller book, taking a walk or sneaking in a good nap.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to after graduation?
- I’m looking forward to starting grad school and getting the opportunity to really focus on developing my animation skills and growing as a coder. I’ve spent the last few years balancing a lot so being able to dive deeper into the creative and technical sides of what I love feels exciting and empowering.
