Olivia Dugger (’22)

Favorite Bible Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

Favorite thing about Baylor: The people! I do not know whether it is the Southern charm and hospitality, or simply the fact that Baylor recruits the best of the best, but everyone at Baylor is so welcoming! I have met my greatest friends here; people who push me closer to Jesus every single day.

Favorite thing about Waco: I love the size of Waco! The city is neither too big to the point of feeling overwhelming, nor too small to where you feel like there is nothing to do. It is the perfect size! And locationally, it is great, too. You can easily get to four other major cities in about two hours!

I remember my first Baylor football game like it was yesterday. A breezy October night, and there I was – 18 months old. Okay, I do not exactly remember. But it is true, I have been a Baylor Bear since the very beginning! Both of my parents are proud Baylor alumni, as well as many of my extended family members. So, it is safe to say that I was practically born with green and gold in my veins, and I would not have it any other way!

Baylor was always my dream. When it came time to decide where I was going to attend college, I had to think a total of three seconds before I knew that Waco, Texas was where I wanted to be. The day I opened my Baylor Portal to an explosion of virtual confetti and a banner that said, “Congratulations, Olivia! You’ve been accepted,” was a memory I will hold on to forever. After graduating, I can confidently say that who I am today is not only a reflection of my experience at Baylor, but the way that God has guided every single step.

There was an aspect of moving away from home and starting life on my own that was daunting and intimidating. It is interesting how these feelings can simultaneously coexist with excitement and anticipation when you are a student. For me, there was a feeling of anticipation for a new season and excitement for independence. At the same time, a feeling of missing my mom’s homecooked meals and wishing I could still hug my family at night were present, too. However, I can confidently say that my experience as a student at Baylor exceeded my every expectation. In fact, I loved it so much that three years in Waco were not enough!

Now, I get to work for the university that I have loved from the beginning. In my role, I have the privilege of serving and guiding Baylor parents to help assist their students down the road of success. As a recent graduate, I can provide wisdom to parents who are just trying to figure it all out! Looking back, it is evident that God has led every moment in my life, and I am thankful that today He has me planted in Waco, Texas!