OSU alumna Chelsie Webster is competing on season 18 of ABC’s ‘The Bachelor.’  Credit: ABC’s ‘The Bachelor’

OSU alumna Chelsie Webster is competing on season 18 of ABC’s ‘The Bachelor.’
Credit: ABC’s ‘The Bachelor’

One Ohio State alumna’s search for love is capturing the attention of audiences nationwide. Chelsie Webster, a 24-year-old OSU graduate, is one of 27 women being featured on the 18th season of the ABC show “The Bachelor.”

Webster, who received her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2011 and a master’s degree in early childhood education the following year, can be seen on television trying to win the heart of this season’s bachelor: Juan Pablo Galavis, an American-born Venezuelan who’s also a former professional soccer player.

While the show is airing, Webster said she is unable to participate in any interviews, but the show’s website provides some insight into the romantic preferences of the Lexington, Ohio, native.

When asked about her ideal mate, Webster replied, “I’m not overly particular. I do prefer them to be taller than me (which isn’t hard), I like a nice smile and kind eyes. Other than that, it’s the insides that count most.”

She also said she considers herself a romantic and regards love as a “top priority,” according to the website.

The season premiered Jan. 6, and many OSU students were excited to discover the presence of a former Buckeye on the show.

“She’s my favorite so far because I pay attention to her the most,” said Kelly Marquardt, a first-year pre-nursing student.

Others, like Erin Friend, a third-year in speech and hearing science, and her roommate, Lindsay O’Reilly, a third-year in special education, only watch the show for laughs.

“We literally sit around watching it and make fun of the entire thing,” Friend said.

O’Reilly expressed a similar opinion.

“I don’t think it’s realistic,” she said.

However, both were surprised to hear about Webster.

“I didn’t know she was an OSU alumna, (so) that’s kind of cool to hear,” Friend said.