Gwyneth Stroo
Intended Majors: Nursing
Hometown: Bourbonnais, Illinois
What were you involved in during high school, and what did those experiences mean to you?
Throughout my four years of high school, I was a part of Best Buddies, Special Olympics, Natural Helpers, Bettering Boilers, National Honor Society, and volleyball. All of these clubs connected me with people who want to help others, and made me realize I want to do that for the rest of my life. I learned how to interact with different kinds of people and how to help them through hard situations. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without these experiences.
What inspired you to study nursing? Why did you choose Butler’s Nursing program specifically?
My mom has always been a caring person; she’s always helping others, and she is my biggest role model. I want a career that would allow me to help others, similar to my mom, but I also want something that interests me. I took a CNA class over the summer, and knew that I would enjoy being a nurse. My great uncle went to Butler and started a railroad with his degree, so I visited Butler and fell in love with the campus and the friendliness of everyone.
What excites you most about studying nursing at Butler?
I love that Butler’s BSN program is new and truly cares about the students’ success. Since the classes are smaller and the faculty can support every student, I know I can easily ask for help. I can’t wait to meet new people who have similar goals and learn alongside them.
What are you most excited to get involved with on campus?
There are so many amazing clubs at Butler I’ve looked into, but I am most excited to join the Best Buddies organization! Best Buddies was the most memorable club I joined during high school and I’m so happy Butler has it, too.
How do you think Butler will help you grow as a person or student?
The people at Butler care so much about creating a community, especially during your first year, and I think that is so important. Even though academics should come first, creating relationships with others is a big part of college. Butler will help me get out of my comfort zone through new opportunities and by meeting new people.
What advice would you give to other students starting their college search?
Be open-minded and visit places you might not expect to go to. Butler was not the college I thought I would attend, but after visiting, I knew it was the place for me. I didn’t know much about Butler outside of Blue IV and was a little hesitant to visit campus, but thanks to my parents’ encouragement, I fell in love and couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.