During her college search, Emili discovered Simpson's student-faculty ratio, and "I signed up," she said. The 16:1 student to faculty ratio impressed her, as did the college's success with job placement after graduation.
Now, the Des Moines Roosevelt High School graduate is pursuing a journalism-mass communication major.
"I've always been interested in news reporting, writing and the media."
For the past several years Emili has worked as a summer intern at Mediacom in Des Moines and spends her free time as a deejay at KSTM, Simpson's student-run radio station. At KSTM she loves to talk about politics and culture, and play a mix of Hip Hop and old R&B like Earth, Wind and Fire and James Brown.
Simpson registered on Emili's radar because her father graduated from Simpson in 1977. He was recruited from the Bronx in New York and once graduated, stayed in the Des Moines area. He has worked in the Des Moines public school system for more than 30 years, teaching physical education and driver's education.
Each summer the family returns to the Bronx to visit relatives. Emili says she feels exhilarated by the culture of New York.
During the school year she keeps incredibly busy with classes and extracurricular activities. "You develop a group of friends you get to know and love. It's my home away from home."
She also enjoys the educational opportunities and is taking a formidable course load. "I came to Simpson to be challenged rather than have an easy ride."