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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at GCSU chapter.

During my freshman year of college I had the honor to live in Bell Hall. In Bell Hall, there lived a Community Director named Audrey Waits. Audrey is a very lovely, thoughtful, and hardworking person. I love that I got to meet her my freshman year, and still see and semi-work with her now. Now she is moving on to bigger things, as she is graduating from graduate school here at Georgia College. Before she leaves, Her Campus took the opprtunity to interview this extraordinary gal! 

HC: You were recently selected as a fulbright scholar, what made you want to apply?

AW: I applied because my professor, dr. Saladin, recommended me. I wouldn’t have known about the opportunity or considered applying without his recommendation.

HC: Was Finland apart of the scholarship field you applied to, or was it a separate choice? (sorry about the awkward wording)

AW: I applied to Finland because I wanted to study Arctic health at the university of oulu. I reached out to a professor there and she said she was willing to work with me if I was selected. 

HC: How will being a recipient of the fulbright scholarship and going to finland, affect your future careers?

AW: Ive wanted to study Arctic health for a while and having the Fulbright will be an incredible opportunity to start my career! I also can’t wait to live abroad and experience life in Finland! I’m sure I will make lifelong memories while I’m there! 

HC: Have you been awarded any other major or meaningful awards, honors, or scholarships in your life?

AW: The Fulbright is definitely the biggest award I’ve ever applied for or received! I’ve applied for smaller scholarships and rewards and I’ve been awarded some and been rejected from just as many! All were important to making me who I am!

HC: When does this program start?

AW: I’ll be headed to Finland at the end of August

HC: What are your current involvements here at Georgia College?

AW: I’m currently the graduate community director for university housing, I do research in dr pillays lab, and I am in the pre med mentorship prpgram. 

HC: How have those involvements shaped you as a person?

AW: All of these involvements have made me who I am! I’ve learned about what I’m passionate for, improved my communication with people, and become more confident in my leadship abilities and asking for help as a result of my experiences at Georgia college. 

HC: What is one of your best memories while attending Georgia College?

AW: I honestly have too many to count! My favorite memories are of all the friends I’ve made while attending georgia college!

HC: What is one thing that you will miss about Georgia College?

AW: Besides the people, I’ll really miss just relaxing on the front porch of bell! 

HC: Do you have any advice for current graduate or undergraduate students?

AW: Get to know your professors! I applied for the Fulbright because one of my professors knew that my interests could make me a strong candidate and recommended me as a result! Take risks, try new things, and find something you are passionate about and pursue it!

HC: What do you like to do in your freetime?

AW: I really enjoy reading and painting in my free time! I love spending time with friends and drinking coffee! 

HC: What is a talent you have that not a lot of people know about?

AW: I can play the piano and the cello! I don’t get to play much anymore but every now and then, I try to refresh my piano skills just so I don’t completely forget how to play.

HC: How do you think you describe yourself versus how your friends or family would describe you

AW: My friends and family would probably describe me as hardworking and dedicated. I would describe myself as nerdy and adventurous!

HC: Do you have any hobbies?

AW:  Lately my hobbies have been research for my thesis. I also enjoy napping and watching Netflix.

HC: Who is someone, or what is an event that has had a significant impact on your life for the better?

AW: In undergrad I did a study abroad to Antarctica! As a result I’m very passionate about environmental conservation and polar climates! Visiting Antarctica was my first big adventure and as a result I’m a strong advocate for experiencing other cultures and travel! Because of my experience I wanted to combine my interest in health and the Arctic environment- I’m fortunate to be able to study Arctic health with the Fulbright! 

HC: What are you truly passionate about?

AW: People and the planet! I want the work I do in life to benefit people and the environment!

HC: Is there anything else that you would like Her Campus to know?

AW:  I would not have the opportunities ahead of me or be the person I am today without georgia college! 

Now that you have learned a little bit about Audrey, I hope you understand why she is such a cool and hardworking person. Be sure to see her at graduation and cheer her on as she walks across that stage! 

 

 

Mariah is a senior psychology major, who has aspirations to work in the library science field. She enjoys listening to music and making playlists, playing board games, and crafting. She enjoys writing for Her Campus because it gives her the chance to share unconventional articles that would otherwise not be published, while at the same time promoting female empowerment.
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