This story appeared in the 2026 Spring/Summer edition of Onyx Anneau.
Growing up in a middle-class family, I always assumed I would attend Vincennes University. It was affordable, close to home and the plan was simple-I would live at home and commute. Everything changed in the fall of 2021 during my senior year of high school, when my JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) classmates and I toured Saint Mary‑of‑the‑Woods College. The moment I turned onto campus, I had what people call an “Avenue Moment.” It felt like love at first sight. The fall colors made the campus stunning, but what truly stood out was the strong sense of community a family-like atmosphere I had never experienced at any other college visit. I knew instantly that this was where I wanted to be, but my parents and I realized we couldn’t afford it, and I didn’t want to take on any debt.
Determined to find a way, I applied for the Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Scholarship. I worked tirelessly on my essay and interview, pouring my heart into the process. When I learned I had not been selected, I was devastated. It felt like my dream of attending The Woods had slipped out of reach, and I resigned myself to the idea of going to Vincennes.
Then, in the spring of 2022, everything shifted again. My JAG teacher happened to know the Saint Mary‑of‑the‑Woods College cross country and track coach. She told him about my running, and he reached out to me in May. After talking with him and learning about the opportunities available, I realized my dream school might still be possible. By June, I had registered for classes as an incoming freshman at The Woods with a scholarship to be on the track and cross country team. What once felt impossible became my reality-I was going to the College that had captured my heart from the very first moment.
Once I arrived, I made incredible memories. During my sophomore year, I baked cookies for the Sisters of Providence and delivered them door to door, which sparked friendships I will cherish forever. My friends and I would sit with the Sisters, talk, laugh and share cookies, and the Sisters loved every moment. That same year, Presidential Corps and Student Senate hosted a dance for the Sisters, complete with bingo and music. The following year, their coordinator asked Tim Tesmer, campus minister, and me to help plan another student Sister event, and it has continued ever since, taking place every first and last Monday of the month. These relationships have become one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience, something no other school could offer.
I am so grateful I chose The Woods. This community is truly unique, and I’ve grown through opportunities like serving in Presidential Corps, Student Senate as marketing director, working as an RA, and being a barista in the Woods Café with Donna. Along the way, I’ve created lifelong friendships that have lifted me up, challenged me and made this chapter of my life unforgettable. I will forever cherish my memories at The Woods, and I will wear my Woods Ring with those memories close to my heart every day.
My time at The Woods has inspired a lifelong passion for service, from volunteering with the Sisters of Providence to many other meaningful volunteer experiences. I genuinely enjoy helping people, and these opportunities have helped me grow into someone who leads with compassion and purpose. Because of The Woods, I know I will continue to serve others and give back to the place that shaped me.