College being right around the corner is terrifying to say the least. As someone who prides myself on doing everything in high school, it is important for me to see that in college. I prepared a list of requirements, from class size and on-campus activities, to dorms and architecture. One school from the Midwest that fit all of those requirements was the University of South Dakota in Vermillion.
From the second I set foot on campus for the first time, I was mesmerized by the design and layout of their buildings, particularly their auditorium. It felt like I was stepping into a place where I felt a sense of beauty as well as functionality. The layout of the campus was almost like what it feels like walking through a garden, much like that of Joslyn Castle here in Omaha. Between the weather and the green spaces, I knew it would be in the running for my choice in school.
When I met with my admissions counselor on campus, they went over all of their on-paper statistics: graduation rates, class sizes, and acceptance statistics. It all sounded great, but I wanted to know about their community. I wanted to know about student organizations and how students interact. Turns out, there are over 230 student organizations to join on campus. There is something that caters to everyone, and as such, the students feel a sense of belonging, almost like this becomes their home during the school year. A panel Q&A with current students made that quite clear. Every one of those students answered my and other attendees’ questions with honesty about the hardships, but ultimately said they considered it a home away from home. This tight-knit community felt so much like a family.
Another thing about USD that I particularly enjoyed was that they are home to the National Music Museum, holding instruments and artifacts from around the world. Their museum and gallery spaces focus on the diversity of the communities around—indigenous and tribal exhibits—and the rich diversity and history of music from around the world.
These focuses were what drew me in to learn about my most likely major. I plan to become an educator in history and social sciences. Because USD focuses on the importance of the past and the way it shapes our future, it automatically took a top 5 spot on my potential colleges list. Touring this museum solidified that in my mind.
As I look to my future at a university or college, I have to remember this is an exciting time, and I have nothing to be worried about. As I consider all of my options, the University of South Dakota keeps me hopeful about everything academic and social. From their gorgeous campus to the tight-knit community, I could definitely see myself at USD.
