Throughout history, the bell has been a significant symbol of liberty and unity. Its chime is a beautiful sound that marks the end of suffrage and the beginning of new promise. I now have a new understanding of the Saint Mary's mascot. As a Belle of Saint Mary's, I have had the privilege of attending a school where the women who surround me support one another, exhibit integrity and honesty and unite with one another in various, essential ways.
Last week I found myself in a situation where I left a very valuable item in the beloved, busy Saint Mary's gym. My 21st birthday gift was missing and I was devastated! Now as most people know, January work out sessions are one of the most important activities for college girls. The post-Holiday and Spring Break bikini seasons are on the brain and the gym is packed with students. After stressing out about my missing item (and searching every inch of the gym) I put a little faith in my fellow Smick Chicks as I hoped my item would be returned rather than stolen.
As a senior, I have taken delight in returning everything I find on campus to the Security Hut so girls receive their lost items. I guess it was finally my turn to experience honesty from other Saint Mary's girls ... and that is exactly the character I witnessed! Within 12 hours of my item going missing I was called and notified that my item had been found and turned in. Not only was I ecstatic to have gotten my possession back, but I was truly grateful for the Saint Mary's girls with whom I have shared my college experience. Generally speaking, the integrity and honesty of Saint Mary's women is one of the most wholesome and sound that I have ever seen. From misplaced IDs and keys to North Faces and designer handbags, Saint Mary's women return the items they find scattered across campus ... regardless of how valuable they are. Furthermore, the Saint Mary's Security staff is extremely proactive in helping students search for their missing items. This dual relationship creates a safe, close-knit community that makes sure students get their lost items back.
As J.C. Watts said, "Character is doing the right thing when nobody's looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that's right is to get by, and the only thing that's wrong is to get caught." I feel confident in saying that Saint Mary's women have strong character, solid integrity and immense honesty. There is no other campus I would rather be on than Saint Mary's. Thank you to the girl who returned my expensive, sentimental item and thank you to every student and faculty member who has acted honestly when they could have gotten away with not doing so. The Belles of Saint Mary's truly chime in harmony with one another and for one another.
Caitlin Guffy
senior
off-campus
Jan. 22
