Thirty-three of the 200 high-achieving high school and college students who were awarded a Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education will be attending Ball State University in the fall.

The next Ball State winner we are highlighting is Mariah Smith.

Mariah Smith AwardName:

Mariah Smith (She/Her)

Hometown:

Indianapolis, Indiana

High School:

Emmerich Manual High School

HS Graduation Date:

June 4, 2022

Mariah Smith PeaceDid you participate in any extracurricular activities in high school?

I was a part of my school’s student council and I was in choir.

What are you planning on studying at Ball State?

I am majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Special Education.

What makes you want to become an educator/teacher?

I decided to become an educator because I was inspired by the amazing teachers I had throughout my school career. I didn’t have the best home life, but whenever I’d come to school, the teachers made sure I knew my worth and potential. They were always super caring and helpful and I want to be able to give that same experience to my future students.

What made you choose Ball State?

I chose Ball State because I heard that it was a great college for future educators. It’s also far enough away from home to where I’ll feel independent, but close enough to where I can come home if I ever feel homesick. I also love that the student to teacher ratio is small.

Mariah Smith TCWhen you think about heading to college in the fall, is there something you are most excited about/looking forward to?

I am very excited to meet new people and just enjoy the college experience.

Do you have any hobbies? If so, what?

I love to read and draw.

Fun fact about yourself: 

I come from a very large family. I have 6 brothers and 4 sisters, so I was never really bored growing up.

Congratulations Mariah!