Originally published on July 13, 2018.
Andrew Barnett was encouraged by his father to attend Southern Utah University because of the small class sizes and personalized education. Andrew was skeptical, but as soon as school started, he was hooked.
“While at SUU, I learned that it's ok to be who you are,” said Andrew. “Opening up about who you are instead of trying to fit a certain mold or stereotype is so liberating.”
As a hospitality management major, Andrew was involved with a number of projects, most notably his fundraising efforts for a variety of charities including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Huntsman Cancer Foundation and Women’s Cardiac Health.
Andrew also joined Sigma Chi Fraternity and was the male representative of the Alpha Phi sorority for two consecutive years. He initiated into the Order of Omega which is an elite group of students apart of the Greek community who showed outstanding work ethic in their college career.
“In all honesty, I believe joining Sigma Chi was one of the most significant moments of my college career,” said Andrew. “They truly accepted me for who I was and didn't expect me to be a certain way. I actually have the wonderful women of Alpha Phi to thank for pushing me to join Sigma Chi.”
After college, Andrew found his calling as a florist, working for a flower shop called Every Bloomin Thing. In addition to his work as a florist, he is a member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, a world-renowned singing group based out of Salt Lake City.
Andrew attributes much of his success to his time spent at SUU. “I had fantastic teachers who made it a part of their teaching technique to give their students real-world experience. I really appreciate their willingness to put so much effort into their lessons and class projects.
“You won't get the same kind of education or one-on-one attention with professors anywhere other than SUU.”
Learn more about SUU’s Hospitality program.
Tags: Alumni School of Business
