Jasmine Durando
Intended major(s): Pharmacy
Wolcott, Indiana

Learn more about Jasmine, an incoming Bulldog and Lilly Scholar. Jasmine is one of nearly 100 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship recipients at Butler. 

What does being selected as a Lilly Scholar mean to you? 
Becoming a Lilly Scholar is a massive achievement for me. All the hard work I did throughout high school paid off. It’s more than just a scholarship; it’s a validation of my potential and commitment to making a difference. As a Lilly Scholar, I have access to incredible opportunities and a network of other Lilly Scholars, which opens up a whole new world for me.

Can you share the process you went through to become a Lilly Scholar? What was the most challenging part?
I started by filling out an application that covered my school involvement and academic standing, and I wrote a personal essay. After that, I was selected as one of the few finalists and went through an interview process. Based on my application and interview, I was chosen as the Lilly Scholar for my county.

The most challenging part was writing my essay and preparing for the interview. It took a lot of reflection and effort to present myself as me rather than what others expected from me. Also, the wait to hear whether I was chosen to be a Lilly scholar was excruciating.

As a Lilly Scholar, what made you choose Butler University? 
I chose Butler University because it felt like the perfect fit for my goals, interests, and values. I also love Butler’s close-knit community. It was the perfect place to make friends and build relationships with students and professors. The combination of a top-notch education and a welcoming atmosphere made Butler the right choice for me.

What programs or aspects of Butler are you most excited about? 
I’m looking forward to the learning opportunities and the supportive environment. I’m incredibly excited about Butler’s First-Year Seminar as it is a great way to explore my interests and connect with other students. I’m also eager to get involved in Butler’s intramural sports, which will be a fun way to stay active and make new friends.

What are your expectations for your first year at Butler University?
I have many expectations, but sometimes life has other plans. I hope my first year is fun and filled with amazing people.