Name: Jakaylia Smith 
Class of: 2023
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Nashville, TN
What made Belmont your choice of universities?
I am a Nashville native, and I attended Maplewood High School. I graduated from Maplewood in 2019 as top ten in my class and of course was given a full ride scholarship to Belmont. However, my decision to attend Belmont was swayed by more than the scholarship offer. I made sure to do extensive research because I was going to be spending the next four years of my life there and Belmont had been on my radar since middle school. Once I conducted more research and saw all that Belmont had to offer, I knew it was the place for me. They have so many opportunities for you to figure out what you would like to do and further grow into who you want to be. There are also so many clubs and organizations to join and if there isn’t one that you would like they’re always encouraging students to make new clubs. I am a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Inc., and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with my org while on campus. Belmont also has a plethora of majors and minors to choose from and is always adding more to encourage students to attend from all walks of life. Lastly, Belmont has an abundance of resources at your fingertips so should you attend I encourage you to take a look at all of them to ensure your success at Belmont!
What was the best part of being an Exercise Science (EXS) Major?
The best part about being an EXS major is learning that you have one of the most supporting communities you could ever hope for. The faculty and staff always present options, whether jobs, internships, or when to take specific classes; they have no problem helping you understand and figure out what's best for you. They always want your best interest and are always an email away. I also believe EXS has the best advisors anyone could ask for. Even though she won't admit it because she's the humblest person I know, Dr. Huddleston was a major contributor to my success at Belmont. It can sometimes be difficult being a first-generation student because you can't rely on your family to help point you in the right direction. However, if you have an amazing advisor, it truly makes a difference in your college experience. EXS has an amazing staff: Dr. Schneider, Dr. Huddleston, Dr. Vanden Noven, Dr. Bacon, Professor Wilson, and the grad students who teach all activity classes. I genuinely believe that you leave Belmont more well-rounded and prepared for the "real world" with this team on your side.
What do you love most about Belmont?
Belmont is a beautiful campus and offers many opportunities for student success. Belmont is truly what you make it, so the more you put in, the more you get out. Even when I felt alone, I didn't feel that way for long due to Belmont's abundant resources. From joining a club to potentially finding a career, Belmont's faculty and staff will be there for you every step. I wholeheartedly believe that Belmont will care for you as a person before anything else. I'm so proud to call myself a Bruin!
In what specific ways did you find support as a first-generation college student at Belmont or in the EXS department?
I worked with my academic advisor, Dr. Huddleston, on graduate school applications, understanding the GRE process, and what prerequisites were required for PT school. I also utilized counseling services because college can be overwhelming, and it can be easy to feel lost sometimes. Lastly, I was a Bridges scholar, so having their support made my overall experience at Belmont unforgettable.
What was your experience as a Bridges scholar?
I really enjoyed my time at Belmont as a Bridges scholar because they were adamant about setting us up for success. All Bridges scholars are required to attend summer courses to get adjusted to college life and I believe that was vital to the start of my success because the workload is drastically different when coming from MNPS schools. The Bridges staff were always easy to talk to if I had any questions and were always planning events so the cohorts could form better relationships. Bridges played a significant role in my success at Belmont and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity and experience and highly recommend students pursue the scholarship if allowed.
What are your career plans?
I received offers to attend the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Tennessee State University (TSU) for my Doctorate of Physical Therapy. I officially accepted my offer to TSU and will begin classes in May! I’m a bit nervous but I’m more excited than anything!