Degrees: B.A. in Communication Studies and International Studies with a German minor
How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
I was able to pursue more opportunities with the Stamps Scholarship than I would have been able to otherwise–I had the freedom to pursue leadership roles in my honors community, undergraduate research and to study abroad in Germany this year. If it weren’t for the Stamps Scholarship, I would likely have had to pass on some of those opportunities.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
I would tell myself to feel free to try new things! That was something I only really gained enough courage to do about halfway through college, and the classes I’ve taken risks on have always been exciting and challenging.
Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
My advisor, Dr. Beth Waggenspack and my first research advisor, Dr. Paul Heilker, have had enormous impacts on my college career. They were amazing mentors and encouraged me to believe in myself and push myself to do more than what I thought I could–they were always right. Having people in my field who believed in me was a big factor in my feelings of self-efficacy.
What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
I’m very close with the other girls in my Stamps cohort, and we’ve been sharing an apartment for the last two years. It’s been awesome to live with my best friends and to see the projects they work on.
What comes next?
Over the summer, I will be the media and operations intern for the German Center for Research and Innovation in New York City. After that, I’ll be returning to Blacksburg to complete my master’s degree!
Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“If you don’t like the road you’re walking, pave another one.” –Dolly Parton