When I arrived at Ball State in Fall 2023, I immediately felt homesick. My hometown of Fort Wayne wasn’t far away, but it felt like a world away. I knew the best way to deal with missing home was to get involved—but I had no idea just how many opportunities Ball State had to offer. Joining student organizations has become one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience.

I’m now heavily involved in the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA)—a philanthropic sorority—and Delight, a Bible study group. Each one has shaped my time at Ball State in its own way. A professor encouraged me to join PRSSA, while a friend introduced me to ESA and Delight. I’m so grateful that Ball State offers so many organizations connected to my passions—PR, volunteering, and worship. They’ve helped me find like-minded people who’ve become some of my closest friends.

I’m still shocked by how many student organizations exist here. Even after a couple of years on campus, I keep discovering new ones! If I weren’t already so busy, I’d join even more. There truly is something for everyone, and it’s easy to find a community that matches your interests.

All of my professors have been awesome and incredibly supportive. Grace Park, especially, has made a major impact. She’s the faculty mentor for PRSSA, where I now serve as the member relations chair. Her guidance has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Ball State has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone—from studying abroad in Italy this past winter to preparing for my job search. I’m so thankful for the experiences and connections I’ve made through Ball State—they’ve already shaped me in meaningful ways, and I know they’ll continue to shape the person I become.