- Current Graduate Program: M.Ed. Higher Education
- Program Schedule: Part-Time
- Delivery Method: Hybrid
- Current Employer: Transition & Success Initiatives
- Position: Student Programming Graduate Assistant
- Anticipated Graduation: May 2024
- Undergraduate Institution: Winthrop University
- Undergraduate Degree: BA Political Science
- Favorite Place in Charlotte: NoDa
- Hometown: Myrtle Beach, SC
- Dream Job: Student Affairs Professional
What do you hope to accomplish this year in your role as an Executive Board member of the Graduate & Professional Student Government?
I think this is a very transitional year for GPSG. With new leadership with innovative ideas, I hope to see GPSG grow as an active organization on campus. Within my role as Secretary, I hope to increase communication between GPSG and the Graduate Student Organizations, help GPSG stay up to date with our growing graduate student community, and make GPSG a space for graduate students to make the most of their time at UNC Charlotte.
Why did you choose UNC Charlotte for graduate school?
During undergrad, I had many mentors who were alumni of UNC Charlotte. They talked highly about their experiences here and really encouraged me to consider it for graduate school. They were familiar with the faculty members in my intended graduate program and provided me with insight that would be helpful for my future. As I learned more and more about UNC Charlotte, I fell in love with the beautiful campus, the diverse community, and the opportunities it offered for me as a future higher education professional. My graduate program was actually the only program I applied to! I knew after undergrad that if I was going to continue my education, it would be here at UNC Charlotte.
What’s your favorite graduate school memory so far?
My favorite graduate school memory has been working Gold Rush through my graduate assistantship. I loved seeing students engaged and excited at the beginning of the semester. It’s experiences like that that reassure me that I have chosen the right career path and that Charlotte is the place for me.
Have you been involved in any practicums/research/assistantship experiences?
I am the current Student Programs Graduate Assistant within Transition & Success Initiatives. I get to work on initiatives like Gold Rush, First 49, and First-Generation College Student Week. I’ve loved being able to connect with students, undergraduate and graduate, in this role and help enhance their Charlotte experience. Whether I’m handing out Niner Pride shirts or welcoming families on Family Weekend, I am helping Niners feel like they are a part of Niner Nation!
How can a new student make the most of their semester/graduate experience?
It can definitely be harder for graduate students to feel engaged with the campus community. I encourage these new graduate students to take advantage of the different opportunities available to them, like GPSG. Attending events hosted by the Reynolds Center for Graduate Life & Learning or graduate student organizations is a great way to make connections with other graduate students on campus.