Out-of-State Shockers: Amaya Willis

Photo courtesy of Amaya Willis

When I started my college search, I knew I wanted to stay close to home. I consider myself a very family-oriented person, so it was important to me that I was close enough to come home quickly if I needed to. Beyond that,  I wanted to attend a school that would allow me to focus on my academics and passions, while allowing me to explore new ones.

The first time I heard about Wichita State University was through my choir program. My high school director would often take us to colleges in the area to give us a taste of what college choir was like. In my junior year, I got the chance to sing with Wichita State’s Madrigal Singers, under the direction of Dr. Ryan Beeken. That experience, short as it was, almost made my choice for me. I felt valued and encouraged, and that sense of belonging has stayed with me ever since.

After that choir trip, I visited Wichita State three more times, through my high school and independently. I fell more in love with the campus and environment each time. I wanted to major in psychology, and I had heard amazing things about the faculty and department. I knew I wouldn’t have thrived in giant lecture halls, so Wichita State’s commitment to smaller, more intimate classroom structures was a huge bonus and made me feel a lot more comfortable.

Photo courtesy of Amaya Willis

When I first arrived on campus as a full-time student in August of 2024, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. I remember watching the beautiful red and orange trees, smiling at squirrels running across the lawn in front of Shocker Hall, and feeling so excited to become a new, independent version of myself.

Since coming to Wichita State, I have joined the Tri Delta sorority, which has provided me with endless opportunities for growth, as well as my absolute best friends in the world. The tight-knit and friendly environment of the dorms and campus also makes sure that I never feel alone for long.

Transitioning from high school to college is a big step, especially when you’re moving out of state. I will always be grateful that Wichita State offers so many opportunities to ease the transition and make new students feel at home. Committing to Wichita State University was an amazing decision for me, and I encourage anyone interested to visit campus and give it a try. If the squirrels don’t win you over, let the amazing community, support and culture do so instead.