This semester provided many meaningful connections with alumni, particularly in October and November. I was lucky to meet some incredible alumni that represent Indiana University in such an inspiring way.
In October, I was fortunate enough to take part in the 2024 Hoosier Homecoming festivities including the Distinguished Alumni Service Awards (DASA) Dinner, the DASA Luncheon, the Homecoming Parade, the Hoosier Huddle, and of course, the Homecoming game against Nebraska. In a week filled with programming, I was able to celebrate, learn, and recognize many notable alumni. Learning about the DASA Club and their mission to further students’ education and future endeavors was inspiring as a future senior. Creating connections with both the scholarship recipients and DASA Club members allowed me to gain confidence when networking and establish potential career paths I am interested in. Although, my favorite part of that week was watching a historic Homecoming reign over Bloomington and see the number of alumni that travelled far and wide to watch IU football in person and on a campus we all love dearly.
In November, I assisted Rebecca Keith in preparation for the Executive Council and Board of Managers Fall Meeting in Indianapolis. I was able to meet many outstanding alumni at the Alumni Leaders Dinner and learn about the achievements from the handful of award recipients. The next morning, I was able to sit on a panel with two other student fellows, Francisco Cáceres and Yujin Seong, facilitated by student member of the Board of Managers Katelyn King, and talk about our experiences with working as students at IUAA and our perceptions of campus life. I really appreciate the opportunity to speak on my IU experience, as I was able to make connections with members of the Executive Council and the Board of Managers and answer any questions on how IUAA could strengthen the bond between students and graduates. I also listened in on the Business Meeting after the panel and learned more about Advancing IU 2030.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I had this semester and cannot wait to strengthen those connections as well as build more in the future. I am excited for the stewardship opportunities that will come with IU Day this spring, along with other programming including the Senior Salute at the Bloomington campus and Commencement around the state.
What an amazing end to a great semester – Happy Holidays!