Second School, Forever Family

By Jessica Brown

Being a transfer student is a different kind of experience from the usual freshman life. I received my Associates in Engineering Science from Rock Valley College (RVC) in Rockford, IL in the Spring of 2014. After visiting several schools and filling out applications, I chose The Milwaukee School of Engineering as the place I would complete my degree in mechanical engineering. I moved to Milwaukee in the late summer of 2014 from my home in Rockford, IL. I was ready for new experiences and to be out on my own.

Moving day: Mom and me resting in my new place

So, there I was, just moved into my first apartment, a small studio on the East Side of Milwaukee, just two blocks from Lake Michigan, I was scared out of my mind, but ready for this new chapter in my life. I had a couple weeks before school started so I explored the Milwaukee area and learned about the culture and lifestyle here, but also where the nearest coffee stores were. ​

Explore MKE: Kayak the Milwaukee River

The week before my classes started, I was introduced to some people on campus through MSOE’s social events in their “Welcome Week.” It was there that I met some of my sisters, only then I didn’t know them as so. I wandered through the many booths at an event that showcased the different organizations on campus. I knew I was interested in Greek life, but I wasn’t sure if it was right for me. Through some of the events hosted by KSM, I got to know the women that made up the organization and I realized how diverse they were. As the fall term at MSOE progressed, I learned more about what KSM was about and just how great the things they do are. ​

Potluck at my apartment (Claire, Abby, Brina, Maya, Azalia, Maria, Sandra)

Later that year, I became a sister and in return gained ten sisters of my own. Having been raised with only brothers, I was more than appreciative to have this new addition to my family. ​

Germany Trip to Nymphenburg Palace (Sandra, Jess, and Azalia)

As my time at MSOE went on, there were challenges and obstacles, and luckily I had a support system. If there was a class I struggled in, I knew I would have a sister to help me out and keep me motivated. Through numerous study groups and late night study sessions, I got through my Junior and Senior years of engineering school. ​

Sister Bonding: Sleepover (Brina, Azalia, Maya, Abby, Maria, Claire, and Sandra)

Currently, as I prepare to graduate on November 19th, I like to take time to appreciate all that MSOE and KSM have done for me. In-between exams and lab reports, I reflect on what I gained from my time here. Not only have I been fortunate enough to bond with so many magnificent people through social and service events, but KSM has helped me grow professionally and culturally. ​

Sister Bonding and Henna

As I open another chapter in my life and say farewell to the one before, I will never forget this wonderful group of women. ​

Campfire with my sisters (Claire and Jess)