Olivia Schmitt ’26
Growing up in Chicago, going to a Catholic high school, and following in her mom’s footsteps, Olivia Schmitt knew it would be an honor to attend the best Catholic University in the world—so she went for it.
She applied for early action, was accepted, and participated in campus visits and student days. “That’s when I fell in love with Notre Dame. The buildings are gorgeous, everything fits together so well, and the people I met were incredible. The students I talked to were all super excited about Notre Dame and emphasized the values I wanted too. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.”
After being accepted, Olivia received a financial aid package that included support from the Hesburgh Women of Impact Scholars’ Endowment. Reflecting on the experience, she shared: “When I first looked at my financial aid package, I was intrigued by Hesburgh Women of Impact, and I’m so glad I was selected. It’s special to know others wanted to support me and other students.”
Now a junior double majoring in the Program of Liberal Studies and French, she’s preparing to study abroad in France during the Spring Semester of 2025.
“We only have about 30 students in my major, and we’ve grown close. It’s amazing to come to class every day and understand what my friends will be interested in discussing—and to know them academically as well. It really helps us work through topics that can sometimes be controversial. Our entire curriculum is based on what it means to be human and to know yourself. So, while I’m learning academically, I’m also learning about the person I want to become.”
In addition to her studies, Olivia works at the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, an experience she finds deeply rewarding. “Working at the museum is very fulfilling. I’ve grown so much from learning how to teach classes at the museum—something I never imagined I’d be able to do. Once I’m in a class, I forget about everything else, and I think that’s an amazing experience.”
As Olivia considers her future, she sees two paths: pursuing a graduate degree in French at Notre Dame or working in Washington, D.C. on education policy before attending law school.
Regardless of where life takes her, Olivia is profoundly grateful to the Hesburgh Women of Impact donors for their support. “I really appreciate being given this chance to earn a genuinely and incredibly fulfilling degree. When I think about how much my life has changed in the past two and a half years, I feel so happy—and I know I wouldn’t have had these opportunities without the support from Hesburgh Women of Impact.”