Having been Sooner born and Sooner bred, it was a dream come true to attend the University of Oklahoma. I graduated from OU in 2017 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art. I had the opportunity to be part of the Alpha Phi Sorority, Campus Activities Council Executive Committee, The Big Event, OU Homecoming, and was a small group leader for Camp Crimson. My passion for this amazing university grew while being a student. Now, I work as an admissions counselor at OU and guide prospective students through the college search and admissions process.
While growing up, my school and community did not do much to celebrate Black History Month. Now that I’m older, I have made it a point to seek opportunities to learn more about Black history and participate in community events during Black History Month. I believe it is important to learn about our past to create a brighter future. Personally, I feel a sense of belonging and community when I actively participate in cultural events. A core memory of mine was visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
Honestly, my favorite part of my job is being able to provide clarity and insight for students and their families while they are trying to navigate preparing for college. It’s heartwarming to see the gratitude people have for someone who is willing to take the time to talk through their concerns with them. The college search process can be intimidating and full of challenges. Having someone you can trust to be there for you through it is vital. Thankfully, OU has a wonderful team of admissions counselors who can do just that.
As a first-generation college student, there were challenges I faced that many of my peers did not. My parents did not know how to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), nor did we know what that stood for. They could not help me look for scholarships, we did not know when to apply for colleges, and I had to learn what terms like “bursar” meant. Thankfully, I found support along the way. I’m grateful for that experience, because I can now use that understanding when talking with prospective students.
My number one piece of advice for prospective students is to visit campus. By taking a tour at OU, they will be able to see what life could be like as a student. They will walk the campus while students are going to class and be led by current students. They can see the dorms and ask Admissions Counselors their questions in person. Not to mention, they will receive free OU t-shirts when they take a tour. Who doesn’t love a free t-shirt?
Two resources I refer students to the most are University College and the Office of Student Life. Firstly, University College is a fantastic free resource for students that is located on the Norman campus. It is home to the Academic Advising office, Writing Center, Tutoring Center, and hosts foundations courses. Plus, it has a comfortable lounge for studying. Second, I refer them to Student Life, because OU has over 680 student led organizations and clubs. Getting involved is a great way for students to find their community with like-minded peers.
Sooner Saturday is my favorite recruitment event! It’s a day dedicated specifically to High School Juniors and their families. For many, that day is the first time they have ever visited the OU Norman campus. For others, it might be the first time they are viewing OU for academics and not just sports. It’s an important and exciting event.
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” This is a daunting question many of us are asked. I rarely had a solid answer, but I knew I wanted to help put people on a path for success towards achieving their dreams. This role does just that. I have the opportunity to discuss students’ goals and provide them with practical next steps daily. This may look like navigating the difficulties of helping make college more affordable or being a friend to them as they discover the endless possibilities OU has to offer. I am proud to be a representative of our great University.
