One of the university’s own has been awarded membership to the International Dean’s List Society.

On Sept. 15, 2016, Tommy Walls III, a freshman chemistry major and American Chemical Society member was accepted into the society.

“I received my invitation by mail approximately one week before I was accepted into the society,” said Walls. “I definitely did not anticipate an invitation to the International Dean’s List Society. I did not intend on earning good grades simply recognition. I am, however, aiming to excel academically which inadvertently leads to recognition like these.” 

Walls shared why he was accepted and who was present as he received the acceptance into the society.

“According to my acceptance letter, I was accepted as a member for ‘exemplary academic performance at Southeastern Louisiana University,’” said Walls. “My girlfriend, Tori, and my brother, Craig, were both present when I was accepted into the International Dean’s List. Both expressed how proud they were of my achievement.”

The International Dean’s List Society offers recognition, scholarships to graduate and undergraduate students, online learning, study abroad programs and discount partners to members. 

“The International Dean’s List Society is designed to reward students for their academic achievements by providing scholarships and online courses intended to facilitate members’ success in their education through their careers,” said Walls. “There are also discounts with partner companies such as Kaplan and Microsoft which can be used to advance your academics and career.”

The society’s mission is to advance futures through direct membership benefits, practical career learning opportunities and scholarships. Walls shared how he was impacted since he has received the membership.

“Receiving this membership has increased my confidence in my academic abilities, which has renewed my passion for learning and shown me that my hard work has not gone unnoticed,” said Walls. “I intend on continuing to excel in my studies.”

Walls’s academic goals include graduating from the university with bachelor’s in chemistry, then attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology or the University of Nottingham to earn his Ph.D. in chemistry. Walls has recently seen improvements in his academic performance. 

“Since receiving membership, I feel one step closer to my goals and have even been invited to perform research related to my major with one of my chemistry professors,” said Walls.

Walls plans on taking advantage of the online courses and other oppurtunities in attempt to better himself and develop his professional skills.

“I also intend on researching the society’s study abroad program,” said Walls. “I believe that these experiences will help build skills that will assist my academic and professional careers.”

Walls expressed his advice to students who wish to receive membership from the society.

“The best advice I could give to any student is to study every chance you have the opportunity,” said Walls. “This will lead to increased grades and therefore recognition for your success by societies such as the International Dean’s List.”

Walls shared how he feels towards having the membership.

“I feel honored to be recognized for my academic success,” said Walls. “It has truly been a humbling experience.”

For more information about the International Dean’s List Society, visit their website at idlsoc.org.