What did the scholarship allow you to do that you otherwise wouldn’t have done?

It is no secret that tuition is expensive, but because of the scholarship I was able to make a college decision that reflected the type of educational experience I wanted for myself and not based on the price of tuition or room and board.

What are you most proud of?

My sophomore year of highschool, I decided to enroll in a Certified Nursing Assistant course at my local community college. After completing 40 hours in the classroom and 80 hours of clinics, I passed the state exam and began working. When I enrolled in the course, I never imagined how this job would shape me. I am proud of myself for the hardwork and dedication I put into caring for the elderly members of my community. I am also proud of myself for entering into the field of work I was hoping to pursue, as it allowed me to understand what I value most in a career for my future. 

What’s something you’ve created recently?

Over my spring break, I created a patchwork sweatshirt. By using some material I had at home and pieces of leftover fabric, I sewed together a banner that read “BU” for Butler University. I also sewed a tiny paw print and the words “GO DAWGS” on the back to complete the design. I have had very little experience sewing and/or creating designs for apparel, so I was proud of the work that I created and how I was able to use material that would have been otherwise thrown away.  

Share an example of a time you stepped out of your comfort zone or did something that surprised you.

When I came to Butler, I had my heart set on pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and later taking the steps to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist. However, after taking my first year seminar about Medical Anthropology and a course about Disability Studies, my interest for my future totally changed. I was very worried about switching my major, because I felt like I was quitting or giving up on Kinesiology. I soon realized how valuable a college education can be in helping to discover everything that the world has to offer people who are willing to learn. I was not quitting on Kinesiology; I was learning more about what I value and what is interesting to me. 

I spoke to an advisor in the Exploratory Studies department, and she assisted me with the process of switching my major. If someone would have told me that after only a semester at Butler I would change my major, I wouldn’t have believed them; however, I can honestly say that it is one of the best decisions I have made for my future. 

What’s the last novel you read?

The last novel I read for personal enjoyment was the Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose. This novel is a murder mystery which incorporates the struggles of the legal system. Without giving any spoilers, the main character, Sarah Morgan, is a defense attorney who is asked to represent her husband who was just accused of murdering his mistress. This novel is full of surprises and kept me invested the whole time! I would highly recommend it. 

What has been your favorite LSN experience?

My favorite LSN experience thus far has been attending Launch. As a new scholar, I was eager to learn more about the network and how to stay involved as a Collegiate Scholar. Launch was the perfect opportunity to learn about all the Network has to offer, as well as understand how the Network works to better Indiana. 

As new Scholars, Launch also provided the opportunity to connect with alumni, current Collegiate Scholars, and members of my cohort. I met people who would later be in my classes, who I would eat dinner with at study tables, and who I would share a suite with. I met some of my best friends at Launch. Launch was the perfect opportunity to meet hard working and driven individuals who will be attending the same college as yourself, before getting to campus.