Access with Suzie

Transcript

It’s time to meet Suzie, a Freshman from Bartlett, Tennessee, double majoring in Chemistry and Business Management. Choosing the right university can be tough for any student, but accessibility is a major factor nowadays, and the U of M is making that a priority. Suzie, tell us all about it.

– Thanks, Alex, and hey, y’all. I’ve been wanting to major in biochemistry since I was 11, and when choosing what college to go to, I knew I had to do something that had to do with my major. The University of Memphis has an R1 research facility, meaning that its research facility meets the highest standards of research. The University of Memphis provides many resources for students. I’m the first person in my family to attend the University of Memphis, so I didn’t know my way around. Financial aid was the first to greet me with open arms. They were so kind and guided me throughout the entire financial aid process. Opening my eyes, reading flyers, and actually reading my emails has tremendously changed my experience here. I learned about the Education Support Program or ESP, tutoring that has offered throughout campus for every subject. ESP provides an environment to study alongside peers who have passed the class and are available for any questions that come up. One of my favorite resources is the Relaxation Zone, where students get to relax with massage chairs, machines, calming mandalas, and DIY stress balls. During a stressful week of studying and exams, ending my day at the Relaxation Zone helps me let go of any unnecessary worries. I was fortunate to be selected to be a part of a four year cohort scholarship program known as Emerging Leaders. Emerging Leaders take classes together, are mentored into leaders, and learn transferable skills we can use in our careers. This made transitioning into college pretty easy because we came in with built-in friends. Coming to Memphis has taught me that college is more than words on a textbook. The resources here have allowed me to learn about myself and grow as a person. Well that’s my Tiger story. Back to you, Alex.

– Wow, what an incredible story. Thank you, Suzie. 90% of full-time Freshman at the U of M receive financial aid, with more than 700 scholarships being awarded annually among the student population. Thanks for sharing your story. Take care.