University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Sai Krishna Samaymantri

October 23, 2024

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Editor's Note: This is the next in a series of stories about Western Illinois University students, alumni and community members, highlighting their experiences during our 125th anniversary celebration. We will feature 125 individuals from August 2024 to August 2025.

MACOMB, IL — When he thinks back on his time at Western Illinois University, Sai Krisna Samaymantri remembers the beauty of the campus.

"I think of the beautiful historic Sherman Hall sitting at the center of the town, I think of the vast Hanson Field where WIU Leathernecks play football. I also think of University Union where food courts continue to serve people," said Samaymantri, a 2016 graduate with a Master's degree in Computer Science. "The Union is always lit with students."

In addition to the beautiful campus, he said WIU's knowledgeable faculty, helpful administrative staff and entire community make him come back each year.

"Being a Leatherneck is amazing," Samaymantri said. "To me, being Leatherneck means always marching on and keeping that motivating spirit alive in doing greater things in life."

He looks back fondly at his time at WIU, saying he can't pick out one specific memory that tops everything else. All his experiences on campus helped him grow as an individual and taught him to be selfless and give back to the community.

Samaymantri said he encourages prospective students to consider safety and beauty when making their college choices.

"WIU is a safe college town where people are friendly, with affordable tuition," he said. "Involve yourself in student organizations, clubs, and sports. You do not know when or where the opportunity knocks from. No matter how big the college is, it is up to you to always present yourself out there to take the opportunity and build your path."

As we honor 125 years of educational excellence, we invite local WIU students to share their stories and be featured in our series. Contact University Communications at U-Communications@wiu.edu to participate.

Posted By: Aaron Viner (AP-Viner@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing