Hi! I'm Emma, a rising senior at Vanderbilt University majoring in Child Development and Psychology. As a member of the Vanderbilt Dance Team and an active student on campus, I've experienced Vanderbilt from many different perspectives. I love helping prospective students and families feel confident as they explore campus and learn what life here is really like. During our tour, I'll share honest insights about academics, student life, housing, dining, traditions, campus involvement, and my personal experience balancing classes, extracurricular activities, and life as a student. Whether you're deciding if Vanderbilt is the right fit or have specific questions, I'm excited to help you get an authentic look at campus.

Hometown

Nolensville, TN

Major(s)

Psychology and Child Development

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Vanderbilt Dance Team, AASA (Asian American Student Association), Vanderbilt Student athlete pre-health club, Off campus jobs, Anchorthon Athletics Committee

Describe your college experience

My transition to Vanderbilt was challenging because I tore my meniscus shortly after arriving on campus. I spent the beginning of my first semester on crutches, which made moving into college and adjusting to a new environment more difficult. Even with those challenges, the Vanderbilt community made a lasting impression on me. Students, faculty, and staff consistently offered to carry my belongings, open doors, and make sure I had the support I needed. Vanderbilt also provides many resources to help first year students adjust, from orientation programs to academic and student support services. Those experiences showed me how welcoming and supportive the Vanderbilt community is. They helped turn a difficult start into a positive college experience and made Vanderbilt feel like home.

Tip for future students

One piece of advice I would give future students is to get involved early, even if stepping outside your comfort zone feels intimidating. Join clubs, attend campus events, and introduce yourself to new people. You do not need to have everything figured out during your first semester. College is a time to explore new interests and find where you belong. I also encourage students to ask for help when they need it. Vanderbilt offers many resources, including academic support, tutoring, mental health services, career advising, and organizations dedicated to helping students succeed. Taking advantage of those resources made a big difference in my college experience. Finally, remember to enjoy the process. Some of my favorite memories came from experiences I never planned, simply because I said yes to new opportunities.

Favorite class

My favorite class at Vanderbilt has been Social Psychology with Professor Balch. The material connected psychological concepts to everyday life and helped me better understand human behavior. Professor Balch brought enthusiasm to every lecture, and the class included interactive activities that encouraged critical thinking and discussion. I left the course with a new perspective on myself and the people around me. Some of my other favorite classes have been Chakra Yoga, German Fairy Tales, and Positive Psychology. One of the things I appreciate most about Vanderbilt is the opportunity to take classes outside my major. These courses allowed me to explore new interests while keeping my schedule balanced, and they became some of the most memorable classes I have taken.

Career goals

After graduating from Vanderbilt, I plan to attend occupational therapy school and become a pediatric occupational therapist. I hope to work with children with disabilities and their families to help them build the skills and confidence needed for everyday life. My experiences as an adaptive gymnastics coach, researcher, and volunteer have reinforced my passion for working with children and supporting their development. In the future, I also hope to advocate for greater accessibility and inclusion so every child has the opportunity to participate in meaningful activities.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night depends on my mood. Sometimes my friends and I like to try new restaurants, head off campus for trivia night, or spend an evening on Broadway exploring Nashville. Other times, my favorite plan is staying in with friends, watching reality TV or a movie, playing games, and relaxing after a busy week. Having a mix of fun nights out and quiet nights in has been one of my favorite parts of college life.

High school or secondary school

Nolensville High School

Favorite spot on campus

I have two favorite spots on campus. The first is FirstBank Stadium. As a member of the Vanderbilt Dance Team, one of my favorite college memories was celebrating on the field after Vanderbilt defeated Alabama at home in 2024. Sharing that moment with my teammates and the Vanderbilt community is something I will never forget. My other favorite spot is Alumni Lawn. On a sunny day, my friends and I love sitting on the lawn, catching up between classes, or studying outside. It is one of the best places to enjoy Vanderbilt's beautiful campus and spend time with friends.