Amy Hutton
McMinnville, TN

 

Hi, I’m Amy Hutton from McMinnville, Tennessee and I’m one! I’m one of Tennessee’s best and I want you to be one, too.

 

I graduated in 2008 from Warren County High School and I really couldn't see myself going anywhere BUT Middle Tennessee State University the next fall. Both my parents and my brother graduated from MTSU and my dad has worked here ever since I can remember. So MTSU is really like a home away from home for me. Never did I imagine that going to school just 40 miles from home would take me half a world away.

 

In addition to MTSU being a family tradition, I chose to become a Blue Raider because of MTSU's nationally recognized Jennings A. Jones College of Business. My long-term career goal is to become an accounting professor and I knew at MTSU, I would get the solid undergraduate degree necessary. The accounting program is accredited nationally and that means something when pursuing advanced degrees.

 

Since coming to campus, I have surprised myself by trying many new things and really coming out of my shell. In high school, I focused on my studies and few extracurricular activities. But here, I not only go to class, but I have a part-time job, a wide circle of friends, participate in several clubs and organizations, but I just got back from taking a theater class in London. When I decided to enroll here, I never thought I would take a class in another country.

 

I left for London the day after Christmas and spent several days there attending class and theater performances. The whole trip ' complete with trips to castles, historic venues, and Harrod's ' was an incredible learning experience for me and a wonderful adventure. I cannot believe how much I learned in just 10 short days and how much I want to do even more now.

 

One of the best aspects of MTSU is the opportunity to get involved and try new things. In high school, leaving the country might not have really seemed like an option, but at MTSU it is just one of the options available to the students. Joining clubs and organizations, professional societies, fraternities and sororities, or taking a part-time job on campus are great ways to meet new people and face challenges. I was really shy in high school, but ever since taking a job as a Raider Rep in the Admissions Office, my personality is coming out. I enjoy talking to perspective students and their families and telling them about MTSU and all it has to offer. Being a tour guide has given me the opportunity to learn to interact with people from different backgrounds. I have to find a way to relate the information to them in an entertaining way. And though I may never have to walk backward again in my life, at least I know I can!

 

MTSU has one of the friendliest campuses I have ever visited. It seems as if everyone 'students and faculty alike ' are very down to earth and willing to help. If you are walking down the sidewalk between classes and want to talk to someone, you can. If you need directions while on campus, just stop someone and ask. It is just that kind of place. People want you to feel at home and go out of their way to make you feel like family.

 

Since my dad is the director of Financial Aid, I have been part of the MTSU family for as long as I can remember. Before I started classes, I knew where every building was and I knew a lot of the faculty and staff. But I really didn't know MTSU like I know it as a student. I thought I did, but every day I learn something new and find a new way to make it my own and not just a place my dad works or where my family went to school. It is a great university with a national reputation for excellence in academics and athletics.

 

That being said, I still love working in the same building as my dad. I know that if I need him, he is right down the hall. He is not going to let me get too far away from him just yet. I love it that he can take me out to lunch when I need a break from school. I am glad that I am part of the MTSU family, but it is still nice to have Dad just steps away when I am having a bad day.

 

I’m glad I came the 40 miles to MTSU –and the 4,000 to London – to be one of Tennessee’s best. Come to MTSU and you will be, too.