Hometown: Ruffin, SC 

Major: Social Work 

Minor: Health Promotion, Education and Behavior 

How USC changed my life: 

At the beginning of my USC journey, I was an incoming first-generation college student that felt very afraid of leaving behind my small town and coming to a bigger city. Although USC has introduced me to new cultures, leadership positions, and friendships that have shaped me into the person I’m today. I’m very grateful for USC helping me become the person I’m today from those experiences. 

Advice for incoming students:  

Always go after new opportunities; you may find something that you’re passionate about along the way. 

What I’ve learned about myself: 

I have learned during my journey at USC that I’m more than capable of being a strong advocate to amplify individual voices and be confident. For instance, I have previously participated in social movements such as protesting for abortion rights for all genders. And I have advocated for the best interests of children and youth that I have worked with previously at my field practicum at a school. Overall, I’m happy to learn that I’m stronger than I thought.   

What organization helped me succeed: 

The Undergraduate Social Work Student Association (USWSA) has prepared me to become successful in the future. Although previously the organization became dormant because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, I assumed the role of President to recruit members to bring the organization back. The following individuals helped me learn more about myself during this role and myself as a leader to become successful: Abby Patschorke, Emma Pedersen, Kat Clever, Alana Wright, and Kaitlyn Riley.  

A favorite memory 

My favorite memory was when I ate lunch every day at the Gambrell Terrace after classes with two of my best friends from my BSW social work cohort, Kat Clever & Carly Stockton. 

What’s next? 

For the next year, I will be working with City Year, an AmeriCorps program, in New Orleans, Louisiana. More specifically, I will be working within a school as a Student Success Coach to advocate for student needs, provide academic assistance, and more