Michelle Purdy has been involved in so many activities on campus, including a term as Student Union president, it's not surprising that she said, "When I look back on the last four years, it's kind of a blur."
By Neil Schoenherr
May 18, 2001
Michelle Purdy thrives on the challenge of balanc- ing academics and extracurricular activities.
Michelle Purdy has been involved in so many activities on campus, including a term as Student Union president, it's not surprising that she said, "When I look back on the last four years, it's kind of a blur." |
She has managed to maintain higher than a 3.5 grade-point average while having a hand in seemingly every student organization or activity on campus during her four years at the University.
In fact, Purdy enjoyed her time here so much, she's staying around for a while. She will pursue a master's degree in history with an emphasis in African-American educational history in Arts & Sciences.
Purdy has made quite an impression on students and faculty.
"Michelle is simply outstanding and will leave a mark on Washington University long after she graduates," said Rachel Merrell, coordinator of multicultural student groups in the Office of Student Activities. "Michelle emulates everything we hope for in a graduating senior."
While trying to decide where to attend college, Purdy applied to 13 other schools.
"Washington University was always among the top choices," Purdy said. "When I came here for the John B. Ervin Finalist Scholarship Weekend and met some of the deans and the students, I was sold. I could tell the administrators really cared about students, and the students themselves were very involved in what they were doing, not just academically but outside the classroom as well."
As an undergrad in Arts & Sciences, Purdy majored in educational studies and Afro-American studies with a minor in music --she's an accomplished harp player. In addition to her regular academic workload, Purdy was selected to participate in the Mellon Minority Undergraduate Fellows Program, which allows undergraduate students to do intensive research on a project of their choice.
Because of her interest in education and her connection to her birthplace of Jackson, Miss., Purdy chose to examine that state's system of higher education and how it affects politics, culture and identity there. Using Jackson State University and the University of Mississippi, Purdy looked at the importance of these institutions to their communities. Her thesis was completed this spring.
In addition to her strong academic standing, Purdy was extensively involved in extra-curriculars. Last year, Purdy was elected by her peers to serve as Student Union president. In that role, Purdy had a strong hand in many programs and activities, including October's presidential debate and Campus Week of Dialogue.
"My tenure as president of Student Union this year has been one of my most memorable experiences here at the University," Purdy said. "We've managed to make a lot of changes internally in Student Union that in return have helped the visibility and operation of SU. Also, we've tried to empower younger students and help them realize that everyone can make a difference."
Purdy also has been heavily involved with the Association of Black Students (ABS).
"The Association of Black Students first embraced me freshmen year," Purdy said. "Our class was very fortunate to come in when ABS was celebrating its 30th anniversary on campus. I was able to be a part of a conscious-raising movement regarding the issues that have faced black students at the University for the past 30 years and the changes that have occurred and still need to occur. Working on the Action Proposal (a document that revised the original ABS Black Manifesto) was a very rewarding experience."
Melanie Adams, associate director of student activities, admires Purdy's commitment to the campus.
"From her work with the Association of Black Students to her volunteering with the Campus Y, Michelle is able to find the time to be involved and give 110 percent to each of her activities," Adams said. "She has a strong commitment to education and succeeding outside the classroom. She serves as a strong role model on campus and her achievements will continue to enhance the campus community after she has graduated."
Purdy also was active in residential life as a resident adviser, Lock and Chain (the sophomore honorary), the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration, Leadership Through Service, and Project Emerge through the Campus Y. She served as president of her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha. She has been on the Dean's List, won the Women's Society Leadership Award and won several leadership and service awards from Alpha Kappa Alpha.
"When I look back on the last four years, it's kind of a blur," Purdy said. "Some of it has gone by very fast, but there are certain moments that seem to linger."
She plans on taking the next two years to decide if she wants to pursue a doctorate in history or education.
"I know I want to be a professor in the immediate future," she said. "I think the administrative side brought out in me during my time with Student Union will always be there, so I could see myself moving into higher-education administration or possibly the political realm. We'll see what the future holds."
Purdy said she would strongly recommend the University.
"Every day, I've been happy with the decision to come here," she said.
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