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K. D. Smith Interview
No full textK.D. Smith (B.S. 2020, M.S.M. 2021, M.B.A. 2023) was interviewed by Jenna Young in the Norwick Center for Digital Solutions on March 26, 2025. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology in Sport Management in 2020 from Southern Methodist University, followed by a Master of Science in Management from the Cox School of Business in 2021. He later completed his Master of Business Administration with a focus in Real Estate Finance in 2023. Originally from Texarkana, Texas, Smith later moved to Northeast Dallas and then to Plano. A first-generation college graduate, he was recruited to play Division I football at SMU as an offensive lineman on a full athletic scholarship. He played varsity football beginning his sophomore year of high school and described the transition to SMU as a continuation of the strong work ethic and discipline required of a student-athlete. While acknowledging the challenges of being a Black student and athlete at a predominantly white institution, Smith spoke positively about the welcoming and supportive environment at SMU, particularly among coaches and staff. During his undergraduate years, football occupied most of his time, but in graduate school he became more involved in student-led initiatives and discussion spaces. After suffering a sports injury in 2020, an internship in real estate helped solidify his interest in pursuing a career in the field. He credited the Cox School of Business for providing the resources and networking opportunities that enabled his transition from athletics to business. Smith also highlighted the role of SMU's Life After Ball program in helping him and other athletes connect with alumni and prepare for life beyond collegiate sports. Reflecting on his time at SMU, he described it as one of the most meaningful and formative experiences of his life
Regina Hammeken Iturralde Interview
No full textRegina Hammeken Iturralde (Class of 2024) was interviewed by Amanda Sun via the Zoom internet-based video conferencing software on April 15, 2025. She graduated from Southern Methodist University in December 2024 with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Dance Performance. Born in Mexico City and raised in Houston, Texas, she brings a bicultural perspective shaped by her Spanish and Danish heritage. Her academic interests were sparked in high school through AP Psychology and a lifelong dedication to dance, both of which she pursued at SMU. During her time at SMU, Regina was actively involved in the dance department, served as a teaching assistant, and participated in recreational activities, all while maintaining strong connections with her Hispanic community on campus. She appreciated SMU's welcoming environment and the support of faculty mentors, which broadened her academic and personal horizons. Regina credits SMU with shaping her personal growth and expanding her professional interests. Though she initially considered a path in research or medicine, her experiences led her to explore new possibilities beyond those initial plans. Now working in Dallas, she remains closely connected to the SMU community and values the relationships and mentorships that continue to support her journey
Kyra Oladeji Interview
No full textKyra Oladeji (Class of 2025) was interviewed by Laura Narvaez via the Zoom internet-based video conferencing software on July 31, 2025. Ms. Oladeji graduated from SMU in 2025 with a degree in Health and Society and a minor in chemistry. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Ms. Oladeji was raised by her American mother and immigrant father from Nigeria. While growing up she would visit Lagos, Nigeria, with her family. While in high school Ms. Oladeji was accepted into the College Academy Program which allowed her to earn an associates degree concurrently with her high school diploma. Ms. Oladeji talked about both sides of her identity as the child of an immigrant and being Black in America growing up. While at SMU, she became involved with the African Student Association and the Association of Black Students, as well becoming the president of the Virginia-Snider Commons and a Stampede guide. She talked about the connections she made through these positions. She discussed her feelings of the campus becoming less safe for people of color following the 2024 election and the waning support for minority student associations from the University
Mireya Sanchez Interview
No full textMireya Sanchez (Class of 2025) was interviewed by Laura Narvaez via the Zoom internet-based video conferencing software on September 11, 2025. Ms. Sanchez received bachelor's degrees in Economics, Public Policy, and Human Rights from SMU. She was born in Dallas, Texas, in the Parkland area, and grew up in Pleasant Grove. She describes growing up in an immigrant household as the oldest daughter, and explains how that role motivated her to work hard, especially to support her younger siblings. Her Hispanic heritage is an important factor in her life and her family, and she notes that being the first daughter and first child shaped her responsibilities early on. As the first in her family to go to college, she found that her culture helped her connect to others at SMU. Before SMU, she was in the National Guard, which began with her joining JROTC in high school. Ms. Sanchez chose the National Guard because it allowed her to stay in Texas and help her community. She described SMU as a once in a lifetime opportunity and found her community in her sorority, Sigma Lambda Gamma
