What’s next for the Class of 2025: Halee Smith

“What’s next for the Class of 2025” is a series that features Lafayette grads—where they’re headed, and the mentors, resources, and experiences that inspired their future path. Stay tuned for more stories throughout May.

(Photo by Adam Atkinson)

By: Kelly Huth

Major: Biology

Destination/future plans: 

Pursuing a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree at Lincoln Memorial University College of Dental Medicine in Knoxville, Tenn.

Involvement on campus: 

Halee Smith ’25 played on the women’s basketball team and participated in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where she helped represent the voice of student-athletes on campus. She also took part in the peer mentor program, offering support and guidance to first-year student-athletes. 

Smith notes a range of activities that helped to enrich her college experience. As president of the Pre-Dental Society, she connected with others pursuing similar career goals. She became a member of Delta Gamma (spring 2023 to spring 2024), where she participated in a variety of events and service initiatives. Smith served as a leader in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), which ”provided an opportunity for me to grow in my faith and build meaningful connections with others through shared values and experiences.”

Mentors and experiences that mattered most: 

At Lafayette, Smith found a community that felt like a second home. 

“As someone who deeply values time with my family and close friends, the idea of leaving that behind was intimidating. I wasn’t just looking for a place to learn—I was hoping to find people who would make me feel grounded and supported,” Smith says. “Over time, through my classes, clubs, and other campus activities, I found exactly that.”

Smith says the friendships and connections she’s made truly shaped her college experience. 

“These are the people who have celebrated my wins, helped me through challenges, and made everyday life here special. In many ways, they’ve become like family to me, and that sense of belonging is what made Lafayette feel like home,” she says.

And when it came time to apply to dental school—a long, detailed, and at times overwhelming challenge—she knew she was never alone.

“The support I received from the Health Professions Advising Committee (HPAC), my professors, mentors, and the Gateway Career staff made all the difference,” Smith says, noting she is particularly grateful to Nancy Waters, biology professor and faculty health professions adviser, Simona Glaus, director of Health Professions Programs, Sue Herschlag, administrative coordinator for Office of Advising and Co-Curricular Programs, and Dylan Crossen ‘23, of the HPAC mentor program. 

“HPAC played a crucial role in organizing and submitting my documents, ensuring everything was complete and submitted on time. They also helped coordinate letters of recommendation, which many of my professors and mentors generously wrote on my behalf.”

Melissa Schultz, director of strategic projects and Gateway Career counselor, and the team at Gateway Career Center offered valuable guidance as Smith prepared for interviews, providing feedback to help her present herself with confidence and clarity. 

“I genuinely don’t think I would have been as prepared without their encouragement and insight.”

Beyond academics, Smith credits all her basketball coaches with having a profound impact on her personal growth. 

“They constantly challenged me to push past limits I didn’t think I could overcome and trusted me to rise to those expectations,” Smith says. “Their belief in me helped shape the person I’ve become. 

“Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for every professor, coach, adviser, and staff member who supported me on this journey. They’ve helped me grow both academically and personally, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am, or who I am, without them.”