Tell us your year, major, and hometown.

I am a sophomore from Scottsville, Kentucky studying Marketing and Management with a minor in International Business. I am a also a student in the Global Scholars Honors pathway.

What are you most proud of that you’ve accomplished so far?

My biggest accomplishment is maintaining a 4.0 GPA all three semesters I have attended UK. College isn’t easy, but a solid work ethic makes the challenge much more manageable. My goal is to keep this attitude and graduate magna cum laude.

Who have been some people that have invested in you, or contributed to your success? 

As a first-generation college student, coming to a school like UK is a big change. My parents and I didn’t know how to navigate a lot of the things that came second nature to my current classmates. Luckily, they have been along for the ride the entire time and are committed to learning this whole system with me. My Gatton advisor, Serenity Wright, has made the transition much easier as well. She seems to have all the answers and can always guide me in the right direction.

Tell us about your time at UK so far — what do you enjoy about being a student here?

My favorite part about UK is the sense of community I have found in so many different spaces. Whether it’s cheering on the Cats in Rupp Arena, eating lunch in the student center, or walking to class in Gatton, there is never a day I do not see a familiar face. UK is really great about encouraging students to get involved their freshman year, and I’m so thankful I took advantage of those opportunities because I have met some awesome friends.

What is some advice you can provide to new Gatton students?

Always be on the lookout for unique opportunities presented to you. There are probably thousands of programs, scholarships, and internships offered exclusively to Gatton students. With that being said, DO NOT stress yourself about applying to every single one of these opportunities! Think of them all as a chance to learn something knew, grow professionally, or figure out which field you want to major in. I have been most successful by focusing on the opportunities that are most interesting and beneficial to me. If you keep this mindset, I promise you will be less stressed and much happier.

Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten?

Within five years, I hope to complete my Master of Business Administration and be working in the marketing department of a fashion company. My eventual career goal is with management consulting, but I hope to gain experience in the fashion industry before transitioning into that type of role. Who knows? I might start my own fashion company in the next ten years before that opportunity comes! Personally, I hope to visit many more countries and make lots of memories to check some more boxes on my bucket list. 

What are some of your favorite things to do in Lexington?

I am a foodie at heart, and Lexington never fails to impress. Some of my favorite spots in Lexington are The Local Taco, Doodles, and Joe Bologna’s. Another thing I’ve only had the opportunity to do since moving to Lexington is coaching a Girls on the Run team. Volunteering with GOTR never feels like work and every day is a new adventure with elementary-aged girls!

What is the last great book you read?

I am currently working on “Outspoken” by Veronica Rueckert, but my favorite recent read is #GirlBoss by Sophia Amoruso. My biggest takeaway from Amoruso is that you sometimes have to be scrappy but always dedicate yourself if you want to successfully start a multi-million dollar company.