Adline Dely ’26
Scholarship Recipient
Why Smith?
I had heard that Smith has a unique curriculum where you can study what you want; that sounded supportive and reassuring to me. Then when I visited the college, I was blown away by its beauty. Coming from a city where there isn’t much greenery, I realized how much I missed being close to nature. Being on Smith’s campus made me realize how important that connection to nature is for me.
How did financial aid impact your college decision, for you and for your family?
Many of the colleges I got accepted to weren’t very generous with financial aid. Smith was different. The no-loans program meant that I could pursue my education without worrying too much about the financial burden on my family.
What does being a Smithie mean to you?
It’s about being strong when things get tough, being open to learning and growing even when it’s hard, and being smart in all sorts of ways. But it’s also about working together with others, being a team player, and supporting each other along the way.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I have a twin brother.
What are you studying here at Smith? What are your post-graduation plans or goals?
Here at Smith I’m delving into the fascinating world where genetics, molecular biosciences, and chemistry intersect. It’s all about studying the intricate sciences that form the basis of life, both in humans and plants. When I first came to Smith, I thought I’d end up in the medical field, but my journey here has led me to discover a passion for research.
Right now, my plan is to take a gap year after graduation to gain some experience working in the field. After that, I hope to pursue a Ph.D.
Describe an accomplishment you are particularly proud of during your time at Smith.
I’m proud of helping to bring back an organization called SACSA (Smith African and Caribbean Students Association) together with a friend from Smith. When the pandemic hit, SACSA kind of faded away. It’s been a challenge to reinstate it, but we’re starting to demonstrate the value of creating a space for Caribbean and African students to come together and build a community. Our goal is to make sure SACSA stays active for as long as Smith College exists.
Who or what has had the most impact on your life?
AEMES has had the biggest impact on my life because it helped me find the right career path. When I was very young, I told my whole family that I wanted to become a pediatrician, and that dream guided all of my choices. But after I came to Smith, I realized I was always stressed about how to be a top candidate for medical school. AEMES gave me the chance to explore other options. Working with the Botanic Garden’s John Berryhill [director] and Sarah Loomis [associate director of education] made me realize that I could pursue something more realistic and enjoyable: a career in biology.
Favorite thing about Smith?
The way everyone works together. It’s like a big team, and you don’t find that everywhere. People here are always ready to help each other out and work towards common goals. It makes learning and growing feel like a shared adventure.
What would you say to a financial aid donor?
I would tell a donor that supporting financial aid can change lives. It’s not just about giving money; it’s about giving someone a chance to build a better future for themselves and their families.