Growing up, I was told I would never be acceptable to the world because of my size. I held on to that statement until recently. In May of 2018, I received my masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs, but I was prompted to do more than just graduate.
I searched for faculty and individuals of the communities I associated with to share my narrative with while trying to find validation in this process. I was told to apply to the Urban Education Studies program at IUPUI where I would meet faculty, staff, and students who looked like me and shared my story while doing research around bigger bodies. Before doing so, I created a podcast (+Plus Size Magic Radio), a website, and a magazine to intentionally create space for bigger bodies the same way the diversity and programming at IUPUI has. As a doctoral student, this space is symbolic as IUPUI continues to recognize its past, the challenges that are associated with it, and the intentional move to put those of the community in spaces to reach their goals.
I am at an institution that is providing space for me to tell my narrative while making a difference in my own life. I also will continue to make space for others who are looking for a platform to share their voice.
Ellise Smith
Class of 2021
