Saint Mother Theodore Guerin once said, “Profit by the experiences of the past for the future.” For 183 years, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has educated students to be their best selves so they may effect change in the world. For Ariana Hall, a junior from Georgia majoring in music and psychology, SMWC has far exceeded her expectations as it continues to prepare students beyond the classroom.
“I was fortunate to arrive with a merit-based scholarship from my high school. Then I was blessed to be awarded the SMWC Butler scholarship (Bayless V. Butler and Mary R. Butler Endowed Scholarship). I am so honored to have been selected as it is a scholarship for which you must be nominated and selected.”
Hall shared that she has built a relationship with the alumna and her husband who endowed it, Nancy Butler Bruck ’69 and Morgan Bruck. “I appreciate getting to know Nancy and Morg. They have a deep love for the College that inspires me.”
Hall’s involvement with scholarships at The Woods extends into her role as a student worker in the Office of Advancement. Although Hall was looking for a more relaxed opportunity when starting her job search as a first-year student, she found that the Advancement position was just what she needed.
“I’ve learned so much about myself. The amount of knowledge I’ve gained about the College and the connections I’ve made have been so rewarding. I’ve built communication and networking skills and I truly enjoy connecting with alumni as that is a part of my position. Providence came through and provided me a perfect fit!”
Her work with the Office of Advancement led to her becoming a reunion student worker in 2021 and 2022. “I jumped at the opportunity to work the alumni reunion and to say it was rewarding is an understatement,” Hall shared.
“In addition to meeting and helping alumni, working reunion has allowed me to know more of my peers outside of my major. Seeing the alums return home is so heart-warming and there really isn’t another experience like it.”
During her sophomore year, Hall realized there was a void she needed to fill. “After getting involved on campus the thought of starting a student organization was on my mind. I spoke with the campus minister about forming a service organization. I am thrilled that what started as just an idea grew into something beautiful.”
With assistance from Campus Ministry, Hall started the student organization, Service 31. She shared that the organization’s title comes from the Bible verse, “Love your neighbors as yourself,” Mark 12:31. Its mission is to provide opportunities for service at the College and in the broader community for and by Woods students.
Hall share that she and her founding members want to ensure everyone is welcome and accepted. She added, “Our main purpose is serving and showing love to others.”
Although her college experience is far from what she imagined it would be, Hall wouldn’t have it any other way. She recently became involved in Student Senate and Presidential Corps as well.
“As an SMWC student, I have received more than an academic education. I would not be here without my scholarships that have allowed me to grow personally and professionally. I absolutely love learning about the College and myself. The Woods is helping me be a better person, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without these experiences.”
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