Having grown up in Maryland, Kayla Smith had the opportunity to witness the government in action everyday. This sparked her interest in local government legislation. By the end of her freshman year, she decided it was time for her to take initiative. She no longer waited for someone else to create a space for open dialogue and made it her responsibility to create a safe place for students who did not identify as the majority. Her ability to advocate for herself and others became one of her greatest strengths. She attended many conferences, such as the Student Diversity Leadership Conference, in order to equip herself with new tools and an understanding of people from different backgrounds. Informing herself and working to see the change she desired in the world led to an invitation to be a presenter at the Baltimore Student Diversity Leadership Conference. She presented at faculty meetings to help adult advisors be more aware about how to support and empower students of differing backgrounds. She provided a voice for those who felt marginalized in the school. Since then she continued those endeavors at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is a part of many notable communities including the Banneker Key Scholarship Community, Honors College, and the Student Success Leadership Council. The Student Success Leadership Council (SSLC) is a student organization dedicated to the graduation and retention rate of Black students on campus. There she chairs an event called Freshcon, which is the largest new student welcome event on campus. She also contributes to events such as the Political Power Project and the Gala that supports scholarship recipients.
Kayla Smith graduated from Connelly School of the Holy Child. Currently, she studies Government and Politics with a minor in Spanish and Law and Society at the University of Maryland, College Park. Kayla Smith currently resides near her institution in College Park, Maryland.