Leila Brown

Pronouns: She/Her 

Major: Hutchins Liberal Studies, Double Minor in Theatre Arts and Education

Year: Second

Hometown: Pleasanton, CA

First- and Second-Year Transition (FAST) Programs (Peer Mentor), Seawolf Living Brandbassador, Performing Arts Club (Co-President), Advising and Transfer Center (Peer Success Ambassador), National Alliance of Mental Illness Chapter (Treasurer and Social Media Coordinator), Theatre and Dance Department Student Council (Minor Representative)

My favorite experience has been being a Peer Mentor with the First and Second Year Transition Programs. Being a part of the FAST programs has brought me so much joy. My own transition into college had its ups and downs, so it’s been rewarding getting to help first-year students through theirs. When students come to me with questions or want advice, I feel like the luckiest person in the world! I am so glad they have a safe space to ask for help and feel comfortable doing so. It also just brings me so much joy to help people! Additionally, my coworkers in the FAST programs are some of the most genuine, kind-hearted people I know. We work hard to support our students, but what’s great is that we help and support each other as well.

The most challenging part of my college experience has been navigating college life after spinal fusion surgery for my scoliosis. I’m still figuring out what accommodations I need to help me succeed. Thankfully, Disability Services for Students (DSS) has helped me develop a plan that is helping me tremendously in my classes and in my overall college experience. Through this process with DSS, I’ve learned to prioritize and advocate for my needs. It’s reassuring to know that there’s someone there to help and support you. 

When I toured SSU, I first fell in love with how green and beautiful the campus was. The trees, lake, and surroundings absolutely help with my mental health. I also loved the relatively small campus size. Most importantly, I felt a sense of community and couldn’t wait to be a part of it. I have friends here who I wholeheartedly consider family and who make me feel so important. We’ve shared memories that I will hold close to my heart! I also appreciate that wherever you go on campus, you can spot a familiar and smiling face. Specifically in Seawolf Plaza, there is always so much warmth from organizations tabling, prospective students touring, and friends meeting for coffee. I have never felt more at home. All of this is to say the pure love that I feel from attending this school is the reason I stay and the reason I am so proud to call myself a Seawolf.

I would say the people in the Hutchins program have made such a positive impact on my time here at SSU so far. With the small class sizes and seminar style, it’s been wonderful getting to hear from other students and differing perspectives. I have grown to appreciate the seminar approach. I’ve learned that my voice is important and I have something to share. From our seminars, I have learned so much through the readings and others’ experiences, and it’s wonderful to have a safe space to hold deep and honest discussions. Everything I take away from each seminar is knowledge for the real world, as it helps me grow into a better human being.