Maddison Smith is a third year from Davenport, Iowa majoring in music therapy, vocal performance track.

What is your favorite memory from the University of Iowa?

My favorite memory just recently happened! I went to my first ever football game (Iowa vs. Nevada) with my mom during Family Weekend. She got to live the college experience for a day, and even though it was pouring rain, the Hawkeye Spirit in Kinnick was very much alive and well. The highlight was waving to the kids at Stead, as I have the privilege of volunteering with some of them through Dance Marathon. Tears were shed, and it was a memory that will last a lifetime.

What would like to see changed in the world during your lifetime?

I hope during my lifetime to see a cure for cancer, specifically pediatric cancer. Did you know only 4% of the National Cancer Institute's $6.4 billion budget goes to pediatric cancer research? These kids deserve #MoreThan4. (LittleWarrior.org)

If you could choose one superpower, what would it be?

I would choose the ability to automatically know how to play every instrument in the world (and well, with perfect pitch). I am a vocalist with background in band and orchestra, I can accompany myself on guitar, and I'm learning piano, but practicing takes so much time and hard work! It would be so nice if I could just pick up an instrument for the first time and shred.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I'll be 30. I will be a board-certified music therapist working at a children's hospital with patients from a variety of populations, helping to heal through music. I hope to either stay right here in Iowa City, or move out west, where it's sunny and warm. Family is most important to me, so I hope to have regular game nights with my parents and sisters, and who knows, maybe a partner and children of my own (a dream of mine is to be a foster parent for teenagers)! Wherever I end up, I'll be a Hawkeye and Iowa fan for life!

What is a fun fact that no one knows about you?

This is tricky, as I'm pretty much an open book. This wasn't a mystery in high school, but I bet a lot of people I've met here at Iowa don't know that I've bowled a perfect 300 game!

Homecoming is a week where the community comes together to celebrate Hawkeye pride.

In 2022, as the Hawkeye community grows and evolves, our traditions continue to move forward. Join us once again as Iowa City turns black and gold and comes together to unite as Hawkeyes. On Iowa; Go Hawks! For more information on homecoming, visit the Homecoming website.