You’re involved in so much at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½. Which role has meant the most to you, and why?
I value each position I’ve held as a first-year student, but my role in the (SGA) has helped me grow the most as a leader. As speaker of the senate, I’ve learned to lead groups of over 40 students across all class years, facilitate meetings, and guide productive discussions. Having a full room of people looking to me for direction was intimidating at first, but I embraced the challenge. Although I hadn’t expected this opportunity, I came to see it as a commitment to both the senate members who follow my lead and the student body who elected me as their representative.
What’s one moment at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ that really shaped your experience or changed how you see yourself?
One of the most significant moments of my ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ experience happened at in late September. Early in my first year, I took a big step by beginning my SGA senate campaign and finding the courage to stand in front of nearly 300 people and introduce myself. Thanks to Director of the ALANA Cultural Center Esther Rosbrook, I even got to speak on stage — an opportunity of a lifetime. In just two minutes, I found the confidence to show up as myself, sparking a journey of leadership, confidence, and belonging that continues to shape my experience today.
You’ve earned several awards and taken on big responsibilities. What achievement are you most proud of so far?
I am most proud of earning the George W. Cobb Award because it reflects the effort and impact I achieved during my first year at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½. This award sets the standard I will hold myself to throughout my ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ career. It represents the energy and tenacity I had long been ready to unleash, finally finding the right environment to do so here. Since then, I have kept my bar high and continue to learn, grow, and uplift my community through the roles and responsibilities I have taken on.
What advice would you give to future ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ students?
As soon as you arrive on campus, just be yourself. ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ has opened up a world of opportunities for me, but only because I’ve stayed true to who I am since day one. Live the life you want for yourself, and you will find your people, your places, your happiness. Show up in the classroom, at office hours, and to events. Only when you are yourself can you make the most of things; and ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ has so many resources to help you thrive, so take advantage of them and find joy in the smallest moments. Life is what you make of it, and here at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½, you can make it the best four years of your life. Trust me, I already have.
Take the next step
ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ is a distinctive, vibrant, and welcoming place to learn, live, and develop into who you are. Take the next step toward joining our academic community.