Meet Mia Alton! She’s a senior majoring in Economics with a minor in Leadership of Organizations. While at MSU, leading Best Buddies has had one of the biggest impacts on her collegiate career.
Best Buddies MSU fosters one to one friendships between college students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Individuals with IDDs have historically been isolated in their homes and communities, according to Mia. She said the goal of Best Buddies is to change that by providing opportunities for individuals to become more involved in the community and connect with others.
“A lot of people don’t realize that you don’t have to be a special education major or going into a related field (to join). I think I’m a good example, an econ major, and probably the farthest away you could get from working with someone with a disability, but it all comes down to what your passions are. If you truly want to make a difference in someone’s life, especially someone with a disability, we want you to be a part of the program.”
Mia said she was inspired to join this organization because she witnessed her own brother, who has a disability, feel not included or unwanted in situations. She said she never wanted anyone else to feel the way he did, which is why becoming President of Best Buddies and cultivating an inclusive and loving environment is so important to her.
“It’s been so cool being able to give back to individuals that I just love so much and seeing their smiling faces. I couldn’t picture my college career without being a part of Best Buddies.”
Following graduation, Mia plans on returning to her hometown in Illinois and looks forward to continuing her involvement in Best Buddies no matter where she goes.
Lauren Coin