Dear Chancellor Whitney,
My name is Brandon Smith, and this fall will mark the beginning of my senior year at UIS. The past three years that I have spent at this university have been incredibly beneficial and productive. I have lived in Springfield my whole life and I am very grateful to have such a wonderful university right here in my hometown. At UIS, I have been able to be a part of an exceptional learning community while also being able to remain close to my loved ones in the Springfield area.
I am studying in the Psychology program while I work toward my bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology. When I first began my time at UIS, I was told time and time again that many students change their major at least once during their time at school and that it is OK to be unsure about the degree which you wish to pursue. I have certainly proven this rule to be true as I have changed my major several times throughout the past three years. However, I am very grateful to have explored different fields of study and I am excited to have found the field of Clinical Psychology. Upon graduation, I plan to attend a graduate program to obtain a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling.
At UIS, I have been an active member of the music program on campus. I have participated in the Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band and the Orchestra throughout my time here. Additionally, I have had the amazing opportunity to receive musical instructions from some of the best musicians in the Central Illinois area through the Individual Music Lesson component of the Camerata program. Outside of UIS, I regularly perform with community theatre programs in the Springfield area, such as The Muni, Springfield Theatre Centre, Theatre in the Park and numerous high school theater programs. After graduating from UIS, I plan to continue participating in the UIS Music ensembles as they have helped me to grow so much as a musician over the past few years.
The scholarships that I have received from this university have given me the opportunity to further my education while exploring my passion of music and growing as an individual. Although I have worked hard for my scholarships, I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the opportunities that my scholarships and this institution have provided me with. The value of these opportunities cannot be overstated.
Sincerely,