Sydney Hedman REFLECTS ON THE JOYS OF PRACTICING THE FAITH IN COLLEGE

When Sydney Hedman was visiting schools in her senior year of high school, the University of Mary (UMary) in Bismarck felt right. She knew she wanted a college with small class sizes relatively close to home.

“UMary has this ‘feeling’ about it that I cannot really explain, but I just felt like this is where I am supposed to be,” she says.

Sydney is currently a junior study ing social work. When she first visited campus, she was impressed by the social work program and the small class sizes. If all goes as planned, she will graduatein December 2023. In addition, Sydney works as a nanny and at the on-campus bookstore — she finds both of those jobs very fulfilling.

Although Bismarck is a bit of a trek from home, and the winter can be brutal, Sydney truly loves UMary. Several things stand out about the university, including the view of the Missouri River.

“Campus overlooks the Missouri River, which is gorgeous with all the fall colors,” she says. “The sunsets here are unlike any I have ever seen.”

She also appreciates the professors and how much they take care of students. Mental health and self-care are just as important to them as schoolwork.

“They are all truly incredible at what they do and always make sure that we are doing okay,” Sydney says.

But the number-one benefit of the school is being immersed in the Catholic faith. The chapel, where Sydney attends Mass, is just down the hall from her dorm room. She appreciates the openness to the faith and the access to faith-based opportunities. UMary also does not have classes at 10 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during Mass to encourage attendance.

The kindness of others on campus has made an impact on Sydney. People genuinely care about one another.

“It is very rare for you to pass a person walking on campus and for them not to say ‘hello’ or tell you to have a good day,” she says.

Sydney would recommend others consider Catholic universities and colleges. It’s been an excellent fit for her.

“Being at UMary and the professors have shown me that I can do anything I set my mind to,” she says. “I would 100 percent recommend UMary. Listen to your heart because when you step onto the campus God has intended for you, you will know right away.”

Sydney Hedman attends the University of Mary in Bismarck.