Name: Maria Heilig
Year: Junior
Hometown: Cooper City, Florida
Relationship Status: Taken
Major: Retail Merchandising and Product Development
Minor: Business
Her Campus (HC): What inspired you to major in Retail Merchandising and Product Development?
Maria Heilig (MH): I have always had a passion for fashion and self-expression, but I was never brave enough to make that my career choice until my mother encouraged me. Since I was a child, she has always taught me to believe in myself and to follow my dreams. She said if I can do that, then the rest will fall into place.
HC: What is your dream job?
MH: Like most college students, I haven’t pinpointed exactly what I would like to end up doing because I love too many things! Ideally, I would like to graduate from FSU, move back home to be with my boyfriend and get my MBA. After that, I would love to be a buyer for a few years, but my long-term goal is to one day own my own bridal shop.
HC: Are you doing any internships?
MH: Yes! I just started my first semester as a Style Guru for CollegeFashionista.
HC: What do you love most about being a Style Guru for CollegeFashionista?
MH: I love that the internship pushes me out of my comfort zone. I have always enjoyed writing for classes, but to be able to write about what I love is super fun! You get to express your own style and develop it along the way too.
Courtsey: Madison Berko
HC: Congratulations on becoming the President of Project Brite! What made you decide to join?
MH: One of my best friends from high school actually founded the club, and I have always been passionate about community service. It was such a small group in the beginning, so I really wanted to help increase the membership and promote it as well.
HC: How can people get involved?
MH: Joining Project Brite is super easy! You just pay your dues, come to 50% of our meetings and attend two events per semester. We are currently still accepting members, and the unique thing about our club is that we are not committed to just one cause/organization. We focus on helping the Tallahassee community in general. We like to see what our members are passionate about and work from there.
HC: Where are the meetings held?
MH: The meetings are held every other Monday in Union Room 311C!
Courtsey: Madison Berko
HC: Why did you decide to rush Alpha Kappa Psi?
MH: I rushed fall semester of my sophomore year because I heard so many wonderful things about the fraternity and the process. You develop yourself professionally, and along the way, you make many unique friendships and end up with a family on Florida State’s campus.
HC: What is your favorite thing about being the Vice President of Public Relations in AKPsi?
MH: My favorite thing about my position is the fact that I get to give back to the brotherhood. I was in charge of Rush Week which was super crazy, but I had so many brothers that offered me a helping hand. Knowing that I have my brothers to support me in all of my endeavors is one of the best feelings in the world!
HC: What is your secret to handling multiple officer positions and an internship at the same time?
MH: Honestly, I turn to my planner. At the beginning of every semester, I write in the important dates and work from there. Time management is a skill I mastered during the AKPsi pledging process. Without that, I would be lost.
HC: Do you have any tips for staying organized?
MH: Don’t be afraid to plan out your days in advance. Know what your week looks like ahead of time, so you can get everything done. Also, don’t procrastinate! I can be the queen of procrastination at times, and it just makes my life more stressful.
Courtsey: Madison Berko
HC: Time for some fun facts about you! Where is your favorite place to eat in Tallahassee?
MH: I am in love with Wells Brothers! The first time I went there, I ordered a burger (obviously), and after that first bite I swear I shed a tear. My life had been changed for the better.
HC: If you could listen to only one band for the rest of your life, which band would it be?
MH: Absolutely The 1975! Have you ever listened to an album and felt pure joy and heartache at the same time? Because that’s what I feel when I listen to their music. Just like Wells Brothers, they also changed my life for the better. I went to their concert in May, and it was with no doubt one of the best nights of my life!
HC: When you have it, what do you like to do in your free time?
MH: I have my dog up here in Tally with me so whenever I get the chance after a crazy day, I love to just lay in bed with her and watch Netflix. That may sound super lame, but it’s just the kind of person I am. She’s my sweet pea! Also, I’m really trying to get on that gym grind.
HC: Would you like to leave off with any advice for students who are thinking of rushing a business fraternity this semester?
MH: Whenever you go through a rushing process, Alpha Kappa Psi’s or not, be genuine. Be true to yourself! It’s easy to say what people like to hear, but that won’t get you very far. Look for an organization that will accept you as you are, and help you grow.