Hometown: Menands, NY
Major: Finance
Highlights of Siena Experience:
Beating Fairfield in a huge lacrosse upset my sophomore year (LaxPower ranked it the number one upset in the country that year); on-campus parties and simply “hanging” with friends and teammates; (Former Siena president) Fr. Kevin Mullen riding around campus in his Prez-mobile (golf cart) and just saying hello to everyone – he was larger than life; prayers and lighting candles at the Grotto before our games.
Congratulations on being named Siena’s Student of the Year! How did that come about?
To be honest, I don't really know. I do know that community members – faculty, staff, other students – are involved, but I’m not really sure of the process (an invitation to nominate is sent to all members of Siena community and the recipient is selected by eight students who represent the Student Government Association). Over my four years at Siena I have been very involved in all aspects of the College: academically, athletically, in service, as a class officer, socially. I'm truly honored and grateful to receive the award.
How have you changed since you arrived at Siena?
I've certainly matured as an overall person. As a student, I've been taught by some outstanding professors. As a class officer, I learned that the devil is in the details. As a Catholic and a person who strives to be faithful, I thank the Friars for leading by example, and for Sunday night mass in Plassmann Hall with pizza. As an athlete, I am thankful for all the shared experiences with my teammates. In volunteering, I have learned to be grateful, because I have been given so much.
What will you miss most?
Coffee with my dad. My dad (Dave Smith) is a vice president at the College, and between his schedule and mine we sometimes found it hard to just catch up. We had a weekly coffee “date” – sometime on campus, sometimes off – to do just that.
How has being an athlete impacted your time here?
I think I benefited greatly from being a student athlete. I learned valuable skills like time management and leadership, and had a great support network with my teammates and academic advisors. Student athletes also share a common goal philosophy that employers have told me is valuable.
What advice would you give an incoming Siena student?
Get involved and follow your passion! Siena has something for everyone.
Lightning Round
Favorite spot on campus: Casey's outdoor fireplace with a whole milk latte
Dream Job: Financial Counselor at AYCO. I better say that – they hired me and I start work is six weeks!
Top moment at Siena: Move-in day. I was so excited for the next four years. It has gone by way too fast.
Something we'd be surprised to know: I'm an avid horseracing fan from working summers at the Saratoga Race Course. Watch out for me at 100 Days! (Class of 2016 gathering at Saratoga Race Course)
One thing you can't do without: Chocolate-covered Oreos in my Easter basket
Favorite TV show: House of Cards
Favorite Website: The Skimm. I need my fix every morning.
First thing you will do when you get your degree: Thank my mom and dad and take a selfie
True or False – I’m a better lacrosse player than my sister (Maddy, a junior at Holy Cross): False! Seriously, Maddy and I are incredibly close and I'd like to think we made each other better players.
Congratulations to Lauren Smith and the Siena College class of 2016! Live photos and video of the Commencement ceremony are available on commencementfeed.siena.edu. Share your best photos, congratulations, and best wishes on social media by tagging them #Siena2016.
