How are you connected to the WST Learning Community?
I have had the pleasure to live in the WST Learning Community since fall 2016. What advice would you give to students on succeeding academically at Georgia Tech? Everything in moderation. You might think that pulling an all-nighter and studying for 48 hours straight will guarantee you the A, but you'll just end up exhausted and not perform as well as you would have with sleep. The same goes with taking the time to take a break and enjoy friends. Otherwise, you will burn out and end up worse off despite your efforts.
What advice would you give to students on acclimating socially at Georgia Tech?
I firmly believe that Georgia Tech is one of the most diverse campuses in the nation - not only in terms of nationalities, but also in personalities, goals, and ambitions. No matter who you are or what you want to do with your life, there is a group of people at Tech who share your interests. You won't be alone in anything you do; you just have to put yourself out there enough to find those people.
What has been your favorite Georgia Tech experience, and why?
By far, one of my favorite memories is when The Ellen Show hosted a Super Bowl Ticket Competition on campus. I had to dress as a cat and find a massive bowl (extremely random, I know) in order to compete. I got there five hours early and my entire sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, came out to support me. I have never had so many people cheer to see me jump around dressed as a cat.
What are you involved with on campus, and why?
I am on my sorority's executive board as well as being extremely involved on the Georgia Tech Mock Trial Team. My sorority has such a diverse group of strong women, and I love to feel as though I am giving back to them after all they have given me. I first joined Mock Trial because I have a dream to attend law school after I finish my undergraduate degree at Georgia Tech. However, I quickly found that mock trial would prepare me not only for the legal field, but life in general through its required public speaking skills, critical analysis, and on-the-spot thinking. Additionally, I have so enjoyed the opportunity it has given me to become friends with people whose paths I would otherwise never cross.
Please share with us about your recent recognition by Ellen DeGeneres and Shutterfly! How were you selected for this award?
I honestly was shocked when everything happened - it was a complete surprise. After I competed in Ellen's Super Bowl Competition but did not win, I decided to write the show a letter letting them know how much the experience meant to me. I have always looked up to Ellen and her show for their positive message in a world where it is all too easy to be negative. I briefly described in my letter how much her show had an impact on me while I was in treatment for a severe eating disorder in high school. Before I knew it, the show had invited me to L.A. to sit in the audience during a taping. Then, Ellen was calling me on stage to speak with me and give me the Shutterfly check. I honestly had no idea it was coming - in case you can't tell by my completely overwhelmed reaction. Ellen and the rest of her staff were incredibly kind to even invite me to the show. It still feels like a dream.