Sarah Forey knew she wanted to take a risk on herself when she chose KU. Three hours from home, she’s built a community, discovered her passion for marketing, and embraced everything that makes KU unique.

 

 

When Sarah Forey first visited KU from her small hometown just south of West Des Moines, she didn’t expect to fall in love with the campus on a rainy day. Thankfully, she saw the true spirit of the campus, and a second visit on a sunshine-filled day sealed the deal. She could picture herself thriving here, studying business, and finding new opportunities.

Now a senior majoring in marketing, Sarah has discovered a vibrant campus culture, a supportive network of friends, and a perfect “just-right” distance from home. 

Coming to KU from out of state or from a far corner of Kansas? Read our No Place Like KU series to see how students from all over found their place here.
 

Q: Tell us about your hometown and how you ended up at KU.

A: I’m from a small town just south of West Des Moines called Cumming, Iowa, and I went to high school in West Des Moines. On my visits I absolutely loved the campus — it’s so beautiful here — and I decided to come mainly for business. I found my niche in marketing, and my goal is to head to the East Coast and work in sports marketing after graduation. 

Q: Iowa students often stay in-state for college. Why did you decide to go out of state?

A: I wanted to take a risk on myself and branch out. I’m the first person in my extended family to go out of state. My family knew it was the right fit because I’m outgoing and could thrive somewhere new. I got a lot of support for going out of state, and I’m grateful for that because not everyone gets the opportunity.

Q: What surprised you most about KU once you arrived?

A: I didn’t realize how deep KU culture runs. If people were Jayhawks when they were little, they’re Jayhawks for life. Even at airports, if I’m wearing KU gear, people shout “Rock Chalk” at me. It’s such a strong community, and people who went here 20 years ago can still connect over shared experiences.

Lawrence is a small town, but it feels big with the amount of community here. There’s always something fun and unique going on for everyone.

Q: Are there KU traditions that stand out for you?

A: Sporting events are huge. Basketball and football traditions like Waving the Wheat, dangling your keys, and throwing the newspaper are things you don’t see at other places. The traditions run so deep, and everyone gets excited. You even have to learn the claps so you can teach them to others. That’s my favorite tradition.

Q: What makes KU feel like home for you as an out-of-state student?

A: The people I’ve surrounded myself with have helped me become a better version of myself. They’ve supported me through tough times and good times. Becoming an upperclassman was when I realized how much KU had done for me and how much I’d changed. I’d found my niche in marketing, taken classes I loved, and met my best friends. Now I get excited to come back to Lawrence after summer. 

One time during my freshman year, I couldn’t figure out West Campus and asked a random person for help, and they walked me all the way to my class. That’s the kind of community KU has.

Q: How would you describe KU to friends and family back home?

A: It’s basically the best place ever. There are so many different people, cultures, exchange students, and sports. There’s a group for every interest, and everyone can thrive if they’re willing to put themselves out there. You also get to know yourself better, which helps you flourish and grow.

Q: What stood out on your KU visit compared to other schools?

A: KU stood out for its reputation. Anything you look up about KU, you see great stories about what Jayhawks and alumni have done. KU also does a great job connecting alumni with current students to help us excel into our future careers. 

Q: Have you had standout experiences in your classes?

A: I took a digital marketing class where our project was to market a meat shop to a new audience. At first my group thought it was impossible, but we spent the whole semester together, became close friends, and figured it out. We ended up with a great score. It showed me that we do know what we’re doing and can work through challenges.

Q: What activities and organizations have you joined at KU?

A: I’m in a sorority, Gamma Phi Beta, where I’m Intramural Chair. I’ve also been involved in Marketing Club, Women in Finance, and Natural Ties.

Q: How does the distance from Iowa work for you?

A: I love the three-hour drive. It’s the perfect distance — manageable but far enough that I feel independent. Kansas City is on the way home, so I can stop there if I want. I can also visit friends in Iowa City in about five hours. 

Q: Do you spend time in Kansas City?

A: Yes. I had my internship here in Lawrence, but many of my friends interned in Kansas City and Overland Park. It’s so quick and easy to get there — Trader Joe’s is just a 30-minute drive off K-10. Once you realize how close the city is, it opens up so many opportunities!

Q: What advice do you have for out-of-state students trying to find their community?

A: Be open to meeting new people and put yourself out there at the beginning. My dorm floor became really close because we all wanted to meet people. Once you take that initial step, it’s like a trickle effect — you meet friends of friends and suddenly know everyone. Once you get your foot in the door it’s much easier.

Everyone’s in the same boat freshman year. You see people hanging out everywhere when you live in the dorms, which keeps you involved and meeting new faces. Don’t be afraid to branch out. It’s hard at first but seeing how much I’ve grown in my confidence makes it worth it. Say yes, try new things, go with the flow, and enjoy your freedom. You can do so much here. Enjoy those opportunities!