As I prepare to transition from my identity as a student at Marquette University into the next stage of life, I’ve begun to reflect more intentionally on the kind of person I want to become. My years here—shaped by the values of Catholic Jesuit education—have significantly influenced that vision. I no longer see my education as simply a collection of credits and classes, but as a formation process aimed at cultivating not only intellect but also character, compassion, and conscience.

A central theme at Marquette is cura personalis, or care for the whole person. That idea has reshaped how I view success and purpose. I don’t want to become someone who chases achievement at the expense of self-awareness, integrity, or the needs of others. The Jesuit tradition calls us to be reflective, discerning, and committed to justice. It asks us to become the kind of people who not only think critically but also act compassionately. I see that as directly relevant to who I hope to be. I want to become someone who lives with intentionality—someone who makes space for reflection, seeks depth over distraction, and chooses to serve rather than dominate. That vision aligns with the Catholic faith, which revolves around resisting superficial definitions of success and instead pursuing lives rooted in meaning, empathy, and the common good. To that end, I do see myself becoming more of the kind of person who values humility, who listens before speaking, and who aims to contribute rather than merely consume. Of course, I also know that I am not yet fully that person—and perhaps never will be—but the awareness of this ideal has already begun to shape my decisions, my relationships, and my hopes for the future.

In conclusion, while I am stepping away from being a student in the formal sense, I carry with me a formation that will continue to inform how I live, work, and relate to others. I hope to carry forward the Jesuit emphasis on cura personalis, ethical reflection, and service into whatever role I take on next—not just because these are Marquette ideals, but because they are deeply human ones.

My name is Payton Scholl, and I am from Sarasota, Florida. I am currently a senior at Marquette University, majoring in Exercise Physiology in the College of Health Sciences. After graduation, I plan to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy to continue building on my passion for health and human performance. Alongside my studies, I serve as the head manager for the Marquette Women’s  Basketball team, where I take on a leadership role in supporting the team and assisting with daily operations. These experiences—and the relationships I’ve formed through them—have played a significant role in shaping both my personal and professional goals. I am thrilled to see where the next chapter in my journey will take me.