Sophie Martins chose Wichita State University for the opportunities she saw at the university, which culminated in being elected as the student body vice president at Wichita State during the 2023-24 academic year and getting a Legal Education Accelerated Degree, which will propel her into law school, alongside graduating with her bachelor’s degree.

Sophie is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2024 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.

Haysville, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts in political science with a Legal Education Accelerated Degree

I chose Wichita State University after first attending Newman University because I saw all the areas for opportunities. I wanted to join the Legal Education Accelerated Degree program, Cohen Honors College, Student Government Association and rowing team. I wanted to have a college experience that emphasized student success in both academics and experience.

The biggest challenge I have faced as a student was time management. I wanted to do everything possible that Wichita State had to offer. With only being here for two years due to transferring from Newman University, I had to prioritize what extracurricular activities I had time for and wanted to pursue. I tried everything I could and then chose which organizations I wanted to be a part of, such as the Student Government Association.

My favorite off-campus location in Wichita would be Tex Consolver Golf Course because it’s a fun course to play and would be a time when I could stop thinking about school/SGA to just play golf.

The title of my autobiography would be “Don’t be Afraid to be Great” because it is the best advice I have ever received. My dad would always tell me this when I would get nervous about a new opportunity to encourage me to do things I didn’t think I would be able to accomplish. You can’t be afraid to be the best version of yourself.

After graduation, I will attend the University of Kansas School of Law to continue my education.

I would tell other Wichita State students to be open to all opportunities presented to them. Even if you start to get some “imposter syndrome,” there is a reason you are being asked to participate in this. Try to give it your best shot and see where it takes you.

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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