Michelle Lawson ’26
Scholarship Recipient
Why Smith?
My uncle told my dad about the Seven Sisters Colleges, saying that any woman he met who'd gone to one was powerful, had a strong sense of self, and greatly impacted her community. I wanted that to be me.
How did you feel when you opened your financial aid letter from Smith?
I was a chaotic ball of emotions: relieved, thrilled, excited, curious, and immensely grateful.
How did scholarship funding affect your college decision?
I was accepted into two Canadian universities that offered no aid, making it impossible for me to attend. The generous aid from Smith made it a no-brainer—and I’m extremely grateful for that.
What are you studying?
I’m majoring in computer science, with a strong focus on AI. I’m excited about building innovative products and making them accessible—whether that’s through product management, developer relations, or by founding my own AI startup.
What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?
Building an online community for “computer science girlies.” This project started during my summer undergraduate research fellowship (SURF) in 2023. Inspired by my research and Smith colleagues, I began sharing videos on TikTok to explain computer science concepts. We've grown to 60,000 followers on TikTok, 60,000 on Instagram, and 10,000 members in our Discord community.
Tell us about a defining experience at Smith.
I was aiming my talk for the Conway Center’s Amplify competition—“Dear Woman, You Are Limitless”—for the audience, but it ended up reassuring me of my own limitlessness, especially after speaking with so many Smithies who reinforced this idea.
What’s an opportunity you’ve had at Smith that’s changed you?
Learning to pitch with the Smith College Investment Club gave me confidence in my speaking abilities and a better understanding of how to present topics effectively.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I love art journaling and scrapbooking, which doesn’t seem to align with my techie persona!
Which faculty member stands out for you?
Professor Pablo Frank Bolton, who I worked with through SURF. His amazing presence in the classroom and positive, contagious energy make learning totally enjoyable.
Why should donors support financial aid?
Donating to financial aid changes a student’s life in ways you could not imagine. Students like myself feel motivated to make a significant impact on the world, paying it forward because of the blessings we’ve received.
Favorite things about Smith?
The people. The alums, students, and staff make you believe you can do anything. There’s no elitism or restrictions; you’re free to create your own world and career with their support.
Contact Us
To make an endowed gift or to learn more about supporting financial aid at Smith, please contact Betsy Carpenter ’93, associate vice president for development, at 413-585-2052 or ewcarpen@smith.edu.