Betsey Bates '25
Betsy Bates ’25 came to Illinois College as a quiet student unsure how to get involved. Four years later, she leaves with a double major in psychology and sociology and a clear calling in project management and event planning.
Her path became clear through the leadership roles she embraced on campus. Bates served as vice president of literary society Sigma Phi Epsilon, joined Student Senate where she led the planning of Senior Week, and worked as a programming team intern for student life events. “In high school, I didn’t really do much. But at IC, people pushed me to get out there,” she recalls. “That support changed everything for me.”
Through these experiences, Bates discovered a passion for planning and organization that pointed her toward a career in business. While her academic focus wasn’t directly in business, she says her majors still shaped her ability to understand people and think critically—skills that will serve her well as she pursues an MBA in project management at SIUE.
Faculty mentorship played a vital role in her journey. Professor of psychology Elizabeth Rellinger Zettler helped Bates realize that her interest lay more in event planning than psychology, offering the honest advice she needed to hear. Jaclyn Tabor, assistant professor of sociology, also helped her find confidence and direction in her sociology coursework.
Bates believes none of this would have been possible at a larger school. “My mom was right. A small school like IC really does give you the experience and support to grow. I would have stayed that quiet student anywhere else.”
Now, with a graduate program ahead and a future in event planning on the horizon, Bates feels ready. “Start small and build your confidence. That’s what IC helped me do. And now I’m ready to take the next step.”