Elizabeth Siatkowski

I am so incredibly grateful for my time in the Honors College. Through the rigor of the University Scholars program, I was challenged academically, and the opportunity to do independent research for my Honors thesis prepared me well for future graduate study. But perhaps more importantly, I was poured into by countless faculty members and classmates. I made lifelong friendships, grew in my relationship with God, and found new passions.

One of the biggest blessings of the Getterman Scholarship was the opportunity to live in the Honors Residential College. The HRC is a special place, one marked by late-night conversations, worship, shared meals, and notes of encouragement taped on doorframes. Living in the HRC taught me what it means to do life together and to love thy neighbor.

The opportunities generously provided by the Getterman family also challenged me to consider my calling on a global scale. Through study abroad, mission trips, and research, I was able to travel to Spain, Costa Rica, and Argentina. These experiences fostered in me a love for the Spanish language and a desire to serve internationally in my future career.

I would tell incoming Getterman scholars to take advantage of the academic and professional opportunities that Baylor offers, but I would also tell them to take time to rest in God. It is by His grace that you will grow in knowledge, discernment, and friendship. Enjoy your undergraduate years (they really fly by!) and go to office hours – Baylor faculty members are truly one-of-a-kind, and they want to know you, your passions, and your goals. 

After graduation, I will be completing an internship with a faith-based nonprofit in Amarillo before leaving for Argentina on a Fulbright English teaching grant.