Terique Suwareh, U’26
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What do you love most about being a student at Saint Mary?
The thing I love most about being a student at the University of Saint Mary is the togetherness we all possess. It's a smaller school, which means that the relationships not only between peers but also between professors and staff are very well kept. There is such a strong support system here; it's really like one big family.
What are you studying, and what drew you to that field?
I am studying business administration. I wanted to pursue a career in business because I love talking to people and solving needs. Ultimately, I would love to enter the world of sales, as I have taken many courses over my four years here that have sharpened my skills in customer service, effective communication, and problem solving.
What has been your favorite class or professor so far, and why?
My favorite professor has been Mr. Windham. I have had him for the last two semesters for sports management and the psychology of sports. He is one of my favorite professors here because he makes class enjoyable. We don't just go through the basic Power Point slides; he allows us to express our creativity.
How have you gotten involved on campus (clubs, sports, organizations)?
I haven't been able to get involved in as many groups or clubs as I'd like, but I'm on the basketball team, and we've done some really great things. One thing in particular is the Special Olympics we hold every single year. Since I was a freshman, we have been inviting children and adults with special needs to spend a day with us, and we host events for them. Those events are always very special to me. It's beautiful to be able to give back to something bigger than myself.
What is a memorable experience you've had during your time at Saint Mary?
The most memorable experience I have had at the University of Saint Mary was last year when our men's basketball team won the KCAC Tournament Championship.
How has Saint Mary helped you grow personally and academically?
Saint Mary has helped we grow immensely both personally and academically. For example, my leadership qualities have blossomed since being at the university. Overall, I have learned to manage my time better. With all that goes on with school and my sport, it can be tough to find a balance, but my coaches, peers, and professors have made the transition very smooth from the consistent support.
What are your goals after graduation, and how are you preparing for them?
My goals after graduating include getting into sales. I am currently working to obtain my real estate license so I can become an agent upon graduation. I would also love to be a basketball coach one day, and since my sophomore year, I have been working toward that goal by coaching high school summer basketball.
Do you have any tips or advice for incoming freshmen?
The biggest tip I would give to incoming freshmen is to find a routine that works for you and stick to it. At the college level, nobody is going to push you. It is all self-reliant, so being able to have a routine to get all your requirements done is going to be crucial – especially after making such a big life transition and being on your own for the first time.
What is your favorite campus tradition or event?
My favorite campus event would be convocation in the fall. It’s a beautiful thing to see all my peers and professors in one place, serving the most powerful. As a basketball team, we always eat together after, and it is always great camaraderie being around my brothers.
How do you balance your academic responsibilities with your social life and extracurricular activities?
I have balanced my social life with academics and extra curriculars by avoiding procrastination and keeping the main thing the main thing. If you push your assignments back until the last minute rather than taking advantage of time early in the week, you are going to be so stressed out come the weekend that you won’t be able to focus on anything else. As I said, it has been so crucial for me to build a routine because it keeps me disciplined in finishing the most important tasks. Also, goal setting has been essential for me. It has allowed me to focus on what is important to me and given me something to push towards.