Hometown: Albany, Georgia

Major: Recent English graduate

Graduated: May 2022

Why did you choose to attend GSW?
I chose GSW because it felt like an extension of home. The University welcomed me with open arms during a time when I felt lost. Living on campus has allowed me to be close to my family and childhood friends, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming in a way that has allowed me to expand my family forever.

Please list your University highlights, achievements, leadership and awards.

• Dolores Capitan Writing Awards; Creative Writing 1st place (2022), Creative Writing 3rd place (2021), Academic Writing 2nd place (2021)
• Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society (2022)
• Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society, 1 year (2021-2022)
• President’s List, 1 semester
• Academic Achievement List, 3 semesters
• Dean’s List, 4 semesters
• Writing Center Consultant, 3 years (2019-2022)
• University Relations Writing Intern, 1 year (2021-2022)
• Georgia Gwinnett College Teaching, Learning, and Research Symposium (2022)
• Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Leadership Team, 1 semester (2019)
• GSW Gospel Choir, 1 semester (2018)
• Strong United Assertive Virtuous Educated Women (S.U.A.V.E.), 1 semester (2018)

What’s your favorite spot on campus and why?
My favorite place on campus is a little spot of land in the parking lot of the Southwestern Oaks 1 residence hall. There are a row of trees lining Perimeter Road that are not too far from the basketball court. During the afternoon, if I position my car just right, I can get a nice shady lunch spot!

What has been your greatest challenge?
It was during my first year at GSW that I learned that I have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. It caused me a lot of physical and emotional hardships, and there was a lot of adjusting for me and my family. Fortunately for me, I have very loving and supportive friends and family, and I am encouraged every day to continue pushing myself to the best of my ability.

What is your plan after graduation?
My short term plan after graduation involves attending graduate school to receive my MFA in Creative Writing. I have been accepted to Georgia College and State University and will be attending their program in the fall. Long term plans include becoming an author in the fiction genre while either teaching in a college setting or working in the editing or grant writing businesses. I may also go down the path of one day receiving my doctorate.

Why did you choose your major?
I actually started college as a Biology major, but after months of contemplation, I came to the conclusion that being a veterinarian is not what I truly want. Writing, whether creative, technical, or academic, is my passion, and I believe God gave me a uniquely crafted heart for writing that will allow me to make an impact in the world.

What is your favorite place to eat or shop in Americus?
I absolutely love Gyro City! A tasty lamb gyro paired with crispy fries, creamy hummus, and a cup of steaming cardamom tea creates the perfect “treat yourself” combination.

What is your favorite vacation spot or a memorable trip you’ve taken?
During the summer of 2018, I took a road trip with friends from Oglethorpe University to Folly Beach in South Carolina. The trip was a bizarre experience from the start! We arrived at our Airbnb rental at 3am only to find it still occupied! We then ended up sleeping in our cars to wait until morning and also found ourselves in an IHOP, in a park, and on the beach at sunrise. To top it all off, a storm blew through when we finally settled into our rental space, resulting in a tree outside of my room getting struck by lightning! I left South Carolina with a slew of good memories and crazy pictures, including a green seagull. It was definitely a trip to remember.

Posted June 7, 2022