Emerson Coleman found not only an education, but a home at Midwestern State University when she came here four years ago from Bridgeport (Texas) High School. She will graduate from the Robert D. & Carol Gunn College of Health Sciences & Human Services on May 17 at D.L. Ligon Coliseum. She penned a love letter about her experiences at MSU Texas and in Wichita Falls on Instagram last month and graciously agreed to let us share it with the community.

By Emerson Coleman

My Love Letter To Midwestern State University

Exactly ONE month away from turning my tassel, walking across that state, saying “I did that,” and becoming a first-generation college graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology degree. To some people that’s not a big crazy big achievement, but to me – it is one of the most sentimental experiences and hardest things I’ve ever done.

I moved to Wichita Falls four years ago, not knowing what was to come, terrified as ever. I watched my family drop me off and drive away, leaving me with the biggest pit in my stomach because that’s all I had ever known. I didn’t know what was waiting for me, but I hoped I’d find something worth holding onto. And I did. I found memories I’ll carry forever, people who became family, and a version of myself I never imagined I’d grow into.

MSU quickly become more than just a school. It became a place where I laughed until I cried, struggled and grew, questioned myself and found my strength. From that first night silent disco jam (where I realized this place might not be too bad after all) to late-night talks, spontaneous adventures (some TOO wild – sorry mom), the jobs that taught me so much, and quiet moments of reflection – I’ve experienced the kind of growth you can’t put into words.

I’ve learned how to be a better friend, partner, and family member, how to care deeply, and how to slow down and truly appreciate the present. I’ve learned that showing up for yourself is hard but worth it. That learning on others doesn’t make you weak. That sometimes, the best parts of life come when you least expect them. Since being here, I have become an aunt, strengthened my faith, found the beauty in raw, genuine connection, and discovered what it means to truly belong, even though it took 20 years to finally understand that feeling. Wichita and MSU has shaped me in ways I’ll never forget but it’s giving me memories, lessons, and love that will stay with me long after I walk across that stage.

As I get ready to graduate and go into the next phase of life, I’m soaking in every last bit – finding job in the chaos, love in the stress, and gratitude for the people who’ve made this experience unforgettable. MSU and WF, thank you for helping shape me greatly into the woman I am today, being a second home to me, and taking good care of me. A BIG thank you to the people who loved me through it all. I’ll carry this place and these years in my heart forever.