Scholarship Recipient

Why Smith?
I wanted to be in a space of belonging where I did not have to prove to anyone that my femininity does not affect, and is not affected by, my intellectual capabilities.

What has financial aid meant to you?
It means proximity to my dreams, one less burden for me and my family, and one more win for my community.

What does being a Smithie mean to you?
I am allowed to be a woman and exist as other things as well.

What are your career plans?
I am studying psychology and I intend to pursue clinical therapy and research.

“To the recipients, financial aid can be a life changer and a reaffirmation of belief in the goodness of the world and people.”

What’s an experience you’ve had at Smith that you’re proud of?
I took my first music class at Smith. Even though I was intimidated initially—I barely knew any songs or musical instruments—I talked to my professor and she understood my situation. We worked together to make the class as interactive as possible for me. I learned so much, including the history of musical instruments and the anthropological significance of musical cultures. This experience taught me the importance of getting out of one's comfort zone and finding support while doing so.

What do you hope to accomplish during your time at Smith?
I am hoping to learn more about myself and about women, and to explore the impacts women have made in their fields over many centuries. I am hoping to be more confident in my femininity.

Who or what has had the most impact on you?
The pandemic. It has taught me resilience and has affirmed my trust in our generation's collaborative efforts in pushing through obstacles, both precedented and unprecedented.

“I wanted to be in a space of belonging where I did not have to prove to anyone that my femininity does not affect, and is not affected by, my intellectual capabilities.”

What is your favorite thing about Smith?
The beauty of the environment and of the people.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I thrift at least two books almost every month.

Why should donors support financial aid?
To the recipients, financial aid can be a life changer and a reaffirmation of belief in the goodness of the world and people. Your donations can change the life trajectory of numerous women around the world by allowing them to access good quality education.

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Contact Us

To make an endowed gift or to learn more about supporting financial aid at Smith, please contact Betsy Carpenter ’93, associate vice president for development, at 413-585-2052 or ewcarpen@smith.edu.