Dear Smick prospie…

I caught a glimpse of the preview tours today and I couldn’t help but feel a little emotional. I remember quite literally walking in your shoes not too long ago. Don’t worry, I was just as nervous and excited as you are right now. I’m sure you’ll hear this plenty of times over the next few months, but the next four years of your life are going to fly by, so make sure you pick a school that will allow you to reach, or even exceed, your full potential. I highly encourage you to consider Saint Mary’s College when you go to make your final college decision.

While you learn about all of the important academic and financial aspects today, here are a few things they may not tell you that I want to make sure you know.

You may not believe me right now, but you’ll meet some of the best people here. The professors, the staff, even all of the students...they’re truly special. Saint Mary’s draws intelligent, inspirational, and creative women and they’re unlike any other students.

The journey here won’t always be sunshine and roses. This place can throw you some curve balls every once in awhile, but that’s what makes you stronger. You can’t be successful without failure: whether that be in the classroom, or even in friendships and relationships. But how lucky you will be to fail and learn to succeed in such a welcoming environment. Know that even when you are struggling, you won't be alone.

Saint Mary’s is a magical place. I’m not sure if you can feel it now, but this place transforms women. Consider our motto: “We promise you discovery, the discovery of yourselves, the discovery of the universe and your place in it.” This couldn’t be any more true; I am not the person I was when I started school here.

Additionally, should you choose to attend Saint Mary’s, you’ll have the great opportunity of being lead by our remarkable new president, Jan Cervelli. I believe President Cervelli is the perfect fit for our community. She is full of fresh ideas and she’s very personable. She'll do great things for our school and you'll be here to witness it.

I admire your ambition on this bright and early Sunday morning for Fall preview day. I just woke up and look like a train wreck...but that’s alright. You’ll quickly learn you don’t necessarily have to dress to impress here: one of the many perks of an all girls college. Speaking of...don't let anyone try to tell you an all girls school is a bad idea. It could be the best decision you'll ever make in your entire life.

You may be thinking Saint Mary's is expensive, and yes, it is. However, there are so many donors who know how special this place is and who are willing to help you discover how special it is too. Take advantage of this. This will be the wisest way you could ever spend your money and its impact will affect you for your entire life. A car may break, a fancy purse will no longer be fashionable, but a Saint Mary's education is unmatched. It will be apart of you forever.

I hope you embrace our sisterhood: there are Belles all over the world who will tell you how special their time at Saint Mary's was. We certainly hope you choose us and we'll welcome you with open arms if you do.

Pick us, choose us, love us!

Sincerely,

A senior who never wants to leave