“So, how’d you end up at SMU?” In reflecting on my four years—well, about four years—in Dallas, I can’t help but think back to my first time stepping foot on campus. The Georgian architecture immediately made me think of my hometown in Columbus, Ohio. My parents glommed onto the tour as I begrudgingly tagged along. But, I was not sold on committing to what would turn into my home away from home.

What had started as a glimmer of interest in a seemingly random school far away from home turned into an opportunity to explore a life outside of my “bubble”. Southern Methodist University offered me experiences that I am truly so grateful for. An opportunity like traveling abroad with a professor from my major to his hometown. Not only that but having him act as a mentor and teach you about the intricacies of this foreign city. An opportunity like leading a group of 200 young women as a part of an organization that allowed me to grow both professionally and as a leader. These experiences were nothing if not for the teachers that taught me how to employ these skills.

Ending Up At SMU

The teachers that led me to earn my degrees at SMU pushed me to be the best version of myself. This could not be more true in our current situation. Rather than writing the rest of the semester off, teachers in all of my classes set asked how we were doing. Finishing my degrees while in quarantine has allowed me to see the true impact of SMU: this school cares. From the moment you step on campus, these professors help you succeed. Whether that be through helping you draft a paper or simply talking about how hard it had been transitioning to life via Zoom—they care.

Life After SMU

Now, as much as it pains me to write this, I have to think about life after SMU. I am grateful for my parents who made me go on this tour and consider a “random” school. I am grateful for the teachers that invested everything to help us succeed. I am grateful for this school for pushing me to my absolute limits. While I could have never imagined ending up here as a high school student, I now can never imagine a life without this place. Here’s to “ending up at SMU” and forever hoping I was able to experience those last few months on campus.