Finding Her Fit at Ball State

For Sydney Schmitt, a sophomore majoring in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, Ball State wasn’t just a choice—it was a calling.

“I chose Ball State because I really wanted to stay in state, and Ball State is one of the best teaching colleges in the state,” she said. “It was the only college that I toured, as I knew that I was going to go here as soon as I got my acceptance letter.”

Leadership on Campus

Sydney is actively involved in campus life and leadership. She currently serves as the President of Education in Action, a student organization for education majors.

“We strive to maintain and establish relationships with other education majors, as well as teaching and learning about the field of education today,” she explained.

She also serves on the Dean’s Student Advisory Board for Teachers College and represents the college in the Student Senate through the Student Government Association (SGA).

Amplifying Student Voices

Representing Teachers College in SGA has been a meaningful opportunity for Sydney.

“Being the Teachers College representative, I am tasked with collaborating and communicating with the representatives from the other colleges on campus,” she said. “I am able to bring things to the Dean that are concerns discussed in Senate, and vice versa.”

She and her fellow collegiate senators launched the Monthly Memo to better connect with students and share updates about student government activities. “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is informing students about what we do, which is the main reason the Monthly Memo was established,” she said.

Hands-On Experience at Burris

One of Sydney’s favorite experiences at Ball State has been working at Burris Laboratory School. “I absolutely love it there,” she shared. The opportunity to engage directly with students has helped bring her classroom learning to life.

Inspired by Family

Sydney’s passion for teaching runs deep. “I quite literally grew up in a classroom,” she said. Her mother and grandmother are both special education teachers, and she’s had a lifetime of practice helping care for children as the oldest of 11 grandchildren.

“Being the oldest, as well as the only girl, has given me a strong interest in taking care of children,” she said. “I’ve been babysitting my cousins and brothers since I was about 10.”

A Vision for the Future

After graduation, Sydney hopes to study abroad in Italy and earn a master’s degree in a field such as social work, child psychology, children’s literature, or family/child counseling. She then plans to teach on military bases as an elementary teacher.

Finding Balance Through Hobbies

When she needs time to unwind, Sydney turns to her favorite pastimes: crocheting, reading, and spending time with her cat. These hobbies help her recharge so she can stay engaged and motivated in her busy academic and leadership life.