By Ava Steffens
As a scholarship recipient, Lydia Phelps takes deep pride in representing Southern Illinois University and the region she calls home.
Originally from Marion, Illinois, Phelps began studying Agribusiness Economics at SIU three years ago. She is also pursuing a pre-law minor. Now a senior, because of enrolling with extra credit, Phelps says she has “thoroughly loved her program.”
After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in agricultural economic law, a path that she is deeply passionate about.
“I’m currently looking at multiple law schools, but SIU is definitely at the top of the list,” Phelps said.
When deciding which college to attend, Phelps recalls being on the fence about attending SIU. She credits her high school guidance counselor for inspiring her to begin her Saluki journey.
“SIU was the only school that made that transition from high school to college very personal,” she said. “They worked with me on my specific needs and made me feel like I was part of their family.”
The proximity of SIU to her hometown also allows Phelps to be close to her family and remain involved in her younger sister’s life. Her family inspired her to pursue a career in agriculture, as they own a vineyard. They also work with local wineries such as Clad and Cordon Vineyard, about 10 miles south of Marion in Creal Springs.
While staying connected to her family and inspired by their work in the local agriculture industry, coming to SIU gave Phelps the space to form new connections and find a tight-knit group of friends in her major and through other organizations.
“Being a College of Ag student means you have a family,” she said. “We go to class together, live in Steagall Hall together, are in Greek life together, participate in the same organizations, and we all go out every Wednesday night for line dancing and dinner.”
Phelps describes her experience as Undergraduate Student Government president as “phenomenal.”
“The outreach, advocacy, and connections with administration and alumni have truly set me up for success beyond SIU and will make it that much easier to continue serving
SIU as an alumna,” she said. “It’s been so special to be a voice for students and be able to experience parts of campus that I otherwise wouldn’t get to see.”
Although Phelps has received multiple scholarships because of her campus involvement, college is a costly investment. Concerned about taking out a large loan, she said she felt relieved when she received her scholarships.
“When you’re applying to college and looking at the large price tag associated with it, a lot of worry and anxiety come with that,” she said. “I have nothing but gratitude knowing that a collective group of people were willing to contribute to my scholarship fund and helped pay my way.”
Phelps credits the scholarship with making her college experience more enriching by removing financial stress and motivating her to get more involved on campus. She said they elevated her professional path, helped her form lifelong friendships, and allowed her to make a lasting impact on the SIU community.
Phelps is a recipient of the Southern 150 Scholars Excellence Award, given to SIU students whose hometowns are located south of Interstate 64. Recipients must have a grade-point average of at least 3.5.
As one of 21 universities nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. When you make a gift, you help students like Phelps pursue their dreams, overcome barriers, and make a difference on campus. Make a gift today at siuf.org/give.