October is college fair time in the Pacific Northwest. Selling Simmons is not a difficult activity. Many colleges and universities across the U.S. are represented -- even other wonen's colleges. Simmons usually is the only one in Boston
I completed a tour of four fairs this past Thursday, all 731 miles. My husband provided
the necessary company. These fairs are usually scheduled on successive days. The PSAT was given one day, so there was a welcome travel day. The ice in centrral Oregon slowed travel, but nothing else hampered driving.
It is exhilirating to share Simmons information with high school students. In this area, the trend is to attend Oregon schools. The girls have no idea that a Simmons education might cost less than the local offerings.
As the economy has tightened here, the number of high school guidance counselors has decreased. Those who would be the first to go to college from their families
do not have the support and tools to address college admissions. It is a challenge talking to the students who have no idea of the process nor the benefits of small colleges. Simmons offers smaller class sizes than many experience in high school.
I encourage all of you to consider volunteering for a fair or to take admissions information to your local high schools. Many years ago before I stopped working, I helped on a smaller scale in Michigan.
If that doesn't interest you, there is an easier way to make Simmons known. Wear a S.C. shirt or cap, put a decal in a car or house window, use Simmons pens or pencils,
carry a Simmons tote, or many other such activities. I wore a Simmons shirt to a picnic one time. Someone remarked that their housemate was a S. C. graduate. We live 20 miles apart. She was re-connected to Simmons. At a U. of OR track meet I met a M.I.T. student whose mother was a Simmons grad. This spring I sat with a Tufts employee at a sporting event who noticed my shirt and told of her connection to Simmons.
I am excited about the progress I've witnessed on campus. The students are not bound by restrictions I felt fifty years ago. The dorm rules were necessarily strict then. Students did not have the freedom in coursework present now. I continue to be amazed by the variety of majors, minors, and combinations of them that a single student might consider. The balancing of academics, volunteering, sports, foreign travel, and other activities is mind-boggling. Our graduates are succeeding in so many areas. The days of "women's work" are gone.
Go Sharks!
Thank you, Ellie, for all you do for Simmons!!!!! Your efforts are legendary - and you helped bring the world-famous Jamie Rear to Simmons (for this I am thankful, as I had the pleasure of having her in class her first year).
Becka,
I don't recall our meeting. Next time I'm on campus or you get to Oregon, let's correct that.
Jamie Rear has spoken highly of you and the class she took from you.
Simmons is a special educational place as well as a community, primarily of sisters.
Thanks so much for your comment.
Best wishes from Scottsburg.
Dear Ellie
I have a sister who travelled the world over in the Navy Reserves and proudly wore Simmons "gear." She was greeted, year upon year, by proud Simmons women, the world over.
My Mom snuggles and dreams in her Simmons blanket as we speak.
Take Care
Bob White
Cheerful Professor of Communications
Hi there Ellie. I've never met you, but two Simmons friends of mine are from Oregon so I've heard a lot about you!
I've also attended college fairs on behalf of Simmons. Here in Paris, there is only one "American" style college fair and I volunteered at it for two years in a row. The only problem is that my table was usually right next to Smith College. They're hard ladies to compete with!
You're right, though - it is a lot of fun sharing your Simmons experience with high school students. Keep up the good work!