Kristen May
School of Information Bachelor’s Association (SIBA) featured member:
Kristen May, vice president of communications and marketing
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Information ’28, User Experience Design
Bachelor of Science in Literature, Science and the Arts ’28, Cognitive Science
What’s your elevator pitch for your organization?
SIBA exists to build skills and relationships within the Bachelor of Science in Information student body. We offer professional development opportunities, connect students with the broader UMSI community and create a space where every School of Information student can find their people — no application required!
Who can become a member, and how?
Anyone who’s getting a bachelor’s degree in the School of Information is automatically a part of SIBA! Our goal is to be as inclusive as possible to create an open and accessible environment where everyone feels welcome.
What drew you in?
I was drawn to SIBA because of its consistent presence and communication. As a transfer student who started in the fall, it was always reassuring to hear about SIBA's weekly events and opportunities to meet people in the program. That visibility made a big difference when I was still finding my footing.
If your organization had a theme song, what would it be and why?
Our theme song would be “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. This song emphasizes the importance of leaning on each other when we need help, and that’s what SIBA is all about! Whether you have ideas for social events, want to give feedback or just need to talk, we’re always here for you to lean on.
What are your top events or activities?
Our biggest event of the year is the annual gala — this year we're hosting a Tropical Staycation Gala on March 13 at the Michigan League, with beach vibes, a photo booth, refreshments and free tickets! Beyond the gala, we host regular socials throughout the semester that give students a casual and low-stress way to meet their peers and decompress from coursework.
What does participation look like week-to-week?
Participation varies week-to-week! SIBA hosts socials throughout the semester, giving students regular opportunities to connect with their peers outside of the classroom. We're also always available for any questions — whether you're looking for resources, want to get more involved or just want to know what's coming up next!
What’s something most people don’t know about your organization?
Most people don't realize that if you're an undergrad in the School of Information, you're already in SIBA! There's no application process, and all our events and socials are open to everyone in the program.
As a student leader, what are you proudest of?
As a transfer student myself, I know how hard it can be to find your footing in a new program. I'm most proud of helping build a communications presence that makes SIBA feel approachable and visible from day one — that consistent outreach is exactly what drew me in when I first arrived, and I’m proud to continue that tradition!
What do members gain from joining?
Members gain a built-in community of peers navigating the same program, access to professional development events, connections with the UMSI community and the kind of welcoming social spaces that make a big university feel a little smaller.
What’s a favorite memory from your time in your organization?
A favorite memory from my time in SIBA was attending our first E-Board social event at Quickly Boba Cafe! Between the genuine shock over just how large a large drink actually is and the stories we shared, it was such a great opportunity to step outside of the usual UMSI and SIBA context, get to know each other on a more personal level and build friendships that go beyond org life.
Where can I learn more?
You can find us on Maize Pages, or reach out directly at [email protected]!