Scholarship Recipient: Hannah Bessent ‘24

Tell us about your journey to HSU. 

When I came to HSU, I was shy and lacked confidence in myself. I was so worried about what others saw me as instead of being sure of my own abilities. I did not fully trust that I was in the right spot for my future. By putting myself out there by joining clubs and realizing that my purpose was much higher than the trivial things I was concerned about, I was able to grow into a whole new person. Everyone at Hardin-Simmons was so kind, and when I was struggling, I took a personal interest in seeing growth come from that. In my junior year, I was able to see a little of the hard work pay off when applying to graduate school. In interviews, I was confident in my abilities as a future physical therapist, and I credit a lot of that to the things I experienced in my four years at Hardin-Simmons.

Finances are a concern for a lot of students and families. Tell us about the impact the scholarship has had on you. 

As the oldest of three kids in my family, I knew I needed to do whatever I could to help my parents afford to send all of us to school. This past August, my younger brother started his freshman year here at HSU, and with the help of the scholarships I have been awarded this past year, my parents were able to afford to send us both here. Through being at Hardin-Simmons for the past four years, I have learned so much not only in the classroom but also about myself. Scholarships have helped my parents be able to give my siblings the same opportunity, which means a lot.

What HSU organizations have you been involved with? 

Throughout the last four years, I have been in Delta Women’s Social Club, where I have served as President for 2 years. I am a tour guide on campus, have worked in the Alumni Engagement Office, was a First Year Mentor and Stampede Wrangler, and was on the Steering Committee to help plan Stampede. I was also in the BSM, involved in Gamma Beta Phi, and a co-director of this year’s winning SING show for Delta and Tri Phi!

What is your favorite Cowboy tradition? 

I recently received my Hardin-Simmons’ college ring, and the ceremony, by far, has to be my favorite Cowboy tradition. Getting to see the pieces of your hard work all put together on the ring is so rewarding, and getting to do that with your friends makes it even better. On top of that, we get to learn even more about the school through the ring and show pride through the jewelry we wear.

What has been your favorite study spot on campus?

I love studying in the Don Bridges Courtyard outside the library when the weather is nice. Being able to get homework done and enjoy some sunshine at the same time is special.

What has your student experience been like at HSU? 

As a student at HSU, I have grown and learned so much, and that has been due to the faculty and staff I have interacted with. My professors genuinely care about what I get out of the classroom experience. Outside of the classroom, I have had so many unique opportunities that would not have occurred in another setting. From getting to be on stage for SING performing in an 80s-style bedroom and being on homecoming court to getting to fist bump the president of the university, I have had my eyes opened to so many opportunities. The girls I have surrounded myself with in my social club have been the most constant examples of friendship and will be in my life for many years to come. The student experience here is something I would not change for the world.

How has your degree program helped prepare you for your future career calling? 

I have been challenged in ways that I could not have imagined before beginning my undergraduate education. Through classes such as Chemistry, Physics, and Genetics, I have gained study habits and grit that I did not have before. I also have gained an appreciation for the little victories and that is something that I can carry with me into my future field.

What has been your greatest achievement thus far? 

Applying for physical therapy school is something that I would not have dreamed of 4 years ago. In hindsight, all the stressful, hardworking late nights studying have been worth it.

How has HSU impacted you? 

I have grown into a more mature person who appreciates all that life has coming. I have become more understanding and a better leader, and my faith has matured in ways that I cannot comprehend. I have learned that God’s timing is always perfect, no matter what we think in the moment. While I still have room to grow, I could not be more thankful for the part that Hardin-Simmons has played in my life story.

What is next for you? 

I will be graduating in May and will take the summer to prepare for starting the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program here at Hardin-Simmons!