As we celebrate Elizabethtown College’s 125th anniversary, we’re sharing the favorite stories of our alumni, students, staff, and faculty during their time at Etown. Whether it’s a funny anecdote from your dorm days, a moment of mentorship from a class or professor, or a standout experience from a campus event, these stories submitted by members of the Blue Jay community not only commemorate the rich history of our institution but also serve as a reminder of the lasting impact that Elizabethtown College has had on the lives of so many individuals.
Matthew James Smith ’21
My time at Elizabethtown College was a transformative experience for my life, especially thanks to the mentorship of Professor Jean-Paul Benowitz. Through purposeful life mentoring and academic guidance, Professor Benowitz helped me realize my dreams of attending graduate school in a full-time, on-campus setting, becoming the first in my family to do so. After many hours of editing and making suggestions about my personal statements, I was admitted to Oxford University, where I spent two years pursuing my Master’s Degree in Modern Middle Eastern Studies. Professor Benowitz and his wife, Amy, even came to visit me while I was studying there!
Another standout experience was all the opportunities to study abroad while I was a student at Etown – Japan, South Africa, and Jordan. These experiences prepared me for a lifelong passion for international relations and purposeful travel.
None of this would have been possible without Elizabethtown College and its incredible faculty and staff. That’s why I’m so motivated to give back through annual giving and serving on Alumni Council; to aid the College in maintaining that standard of excellence for future generations of Elizabethtown Blue Jays.
Be a part of the celebration of 125 years of excellence at Etown by sharing your Etown story.