By Elizabeth ‘Izzy’ Reel, ’21
When I think about going out into the world after graduation from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, I’m overwhelmed with feelings. The feeling of accomplishment. The view of future success. The emotion of uncertainty. But most of all, I’m overwhelmed with the excitement of impacting others.
Growing up, I was always taught that helping others is the most rewarding action you can do. My personal definition of giving includes desire, peace, courage and love. Although I’ve developed this meaning as I’ve grown up, The Woods has had a tremendous impact on what giving means to me, as I’ve been directly impacted by those who donate on #WoodsGivingDay.
Because of those who contribute to the Woods Fund, I was blessed to receive a Ring scholarship to help pay for my Woods Ring, which I have worn every day since our ceremony in September 2020. Every morning when I put it on, it gives me a sense of accomplishment, love and connection to The Woods family.
In the last few years at SMWC, I’ve been able to witness updates and improvements in Le Fer Hall: the renovation of the Sullivan lounge, new carpet on the residential floors, new furniture for the lounge spaces and the beautiful kitchens that were renovated last year. These renovations didn’t happen by themselves. They happened because of you – our generous donors.
As a student, when you see these changes happening, you can’t help but be overcome with joy and gratitude. As a senior at SMWC, I’ve also come to understand that there are other necessities that are covered under the Woods Fund that can sometimes be overlooked but are just as important to student success.
I’ve learned that when I leave class and go to my room to hangout, all the appliances I have are powered through the donors of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. It gives me a sense of peace knowing that I do not need to stress about these needs as I’m earning my education. I look at it as a sense of motivation and comfort from those who give to SMWC. It may not seem like it, but each donor plays a bigger role in students’ daily lives than they might think. For that, I cannot say thank you enough.
#WoodsGivingDay isn’t only donating funds to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. When you give, it shows that you have a love for SMWC and the students – past, present and future. You express courage by taking the extra step to make an impact. Whether this be with scholarships, improvements to student lounges, cosmetic updates to residential spaces or contributing to utilities or electricity, your donation gives students, like me, a true example of having a desire to help. Thank you!
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