Ask a Wildcat: Brant Simmons ’28
April 10, 2026
Can you give us a fun fact?
I go to Nummit, Davidson's on-campus coffee shop, on average two times a day — if not three or four — and am a "Mugger." This means through my mug club membership, I get unlimited coffee and tea each semester! ☕
What has experiential learning looked like for you at Davidson?
Last summer, I had the opportunity to leave the U.S. for the first time with the Educational Studies Department's "Davidson in Northern Ireland" program, alongside Dr. Rebeca Fernandez and 12 other Davidson students.
I spent five weeks in Belfast studying the theme of "Education in Divided Societies."
The course integrated school visits, guest lectures, book discussions, and historical site visits — offering valuable insight into how Northern Irish schooling is shaped by complex legacies of sectarian conflict.
My final research paper focused on special education and disability inclusion policy in Northern Ireland.
It was a phenomenal experience — both academically and personally. So much fun to explore a new place alongside peers I got so much closer to!
In my classes, I've also been able to immerse myself in various research projects that have instilled in me a desire to pursue a career in academia!
Last semester I took "Race, Families, and Inequality in Education" with Brittany Murray, the Malcolm O. Partin Assistant Professor of Educational Studies and Political Science.
Through this course, I conducted a qualitative research project on LGBTQ+ parent families' school engagement and educational decision-making.
That class also sparked a meaningful mentorship — Professor Murray offered me the chance to serve as her research assistant this semester.
I'm helping with a project on a district-wide parent collective working to challenge racial inequity — crafting the literature review, coding data, and even traveling with her to conduct a data dialogue group.
"The deep, personal mentorship I've found [at Davidson] is truly unparalleled. I'm so grateful."
Brant Simmons
Class of 2028
I've also been involved in the College Crisis Initiative (C2i) as a researcher, working on projects surrounding higher education institutions' responses to policy changes.
As a Bonner Scholar, I've had sustained civic engagement opportunities in the town of Davidson, including interning at the Community School of Davidson.
Next fall, I'll be studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark. It's so great to see how much Davidson invests in experiential learning — and ensures students don't face an extra financial burden to participate!
What is your favorite residence hall you've lived in?
I'd have to say Chidsey (my dorm this year)! It has been so much fun to be in a sophomore-only dorm. I love being close to the houses on Patterson Court, and it's great to have a gym and a basketball court always accessible downstairs.
What's your favorite Davidson memory?
It's hard to choose, but perhaps my first Live Thursday with the Davidson Generals! Live Thursdays are hosted by the Union Board and give our many groups (a cappella, music, improv comedy, and dance) an outlet to perform for the rest of the student body every Thursday at 10 p.m.
I was in awe at how many people were at my first performance! All the seats filled up, so students spilled out along the sides of the 900 Room. It's awesome to see how many people rally for the arts at Davidson.
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Find your people at Davidson
With over 200 student organizations, there's a community for every interest.
What are the top three things you love at Davidson?
THE HONOR CODE!!!
The Nummit porch on a sunny Friday afternoon
A community with some of the most supportive and down-to-earth people in the world!
What's your favorite bite to eat on Main Street Davidson or in the surrounding area?
Can't choose just one — Soda Shop, Milkbread, or Zapata's!
What's a tip you would give to prospective students trying to make the most of their visit to Davidson?
Do not be afraid to ask questions and to verbalize your passions and interests to your tour guide, the admission staff, and anyone else you might encounter. One of the most special things about Davidson is that we are a community invested in hearing all the details about the things that make you nerd out, even if they completely differ from our own.
Also, don't be afraid to wander around campus or town before or after your tour. Whether it's a cute dog walking around with a community member or a future professor eager to hear your story, the spontaneous connections you make here are often the most meaningful. Take it all in and trust your gut.
Speaking from my own experience, don't worry if the stars don't seem to be aligning right away. I didn't visit Davidson until the spring of my senior year post-admission through the Access Davidson fly-in program. I came with doubts but also an open mind — and fell in love quickly. Don't get so caught up in the "perfect" plan. Be open-minded throughout the process and know that you will end up where you belong.
Davidson is a unique place where no one person is the same. You don't have to fit in a box or be one thing. You are encouraged to be all you are — and I didn't find that as evident anywhere else. Think about what YOU love and value. Know that if you come here, all the parts of you will be embraced with open arms. ❤️
