Setting the bar sky-high is an everyday routine for sophomore Abi Jefferys. A sociology major and criminology minor here at Millersville, Abi is probably the most determined #girlboss on campus. Following her older brother and best friend, Noah, to Millersville, Abi has discovered so much about herself and even more about her potential for a stunning career in just her short two years here.
Originally hoping to pursue a degree in criminal justice, Abi’s interest in Millersville was enough to help her decide on sociology and criminology.
“Since Millersville does not offer a straight Criminal Justice major, which is what I originally desired to be,” Abi stated, “I figured that sociology-criminology was the next best thing and I’d actually have a wider array of opportunities and career options if I chose that path for myself instead.”
Abi takes advantage of every one of these opportunities as well – she is always willing to try something new. For example, she is involved in the Center for Public Scholarship and Social Change, in which she assists in conducting research projects in Lancaster’s communities. When asked about this organization, Abi told me, “It’s going to give me a good amount of experience doing formal research in my field, and while I haven’t had much time with the organization yet, I can already tell that I am going to get a lot out of it.”
When I asked Abi about plans after college, I could tell this girl was going to change the world someday, and – to quote one of her favorite shows, One Tree Hill, she doesn’t even know it yet. Abi stated, “I’m not exactly sure what the future holds for me or really what I want to do with my degree at this point.  Although this is true, I do want to continue my education in graduate school once I graduate from Millersville… I’m particularly interested in incarceration, gender, and race and ethnicity.”
While none of her plans are specific, Abi has such a passion for helping people and creating change after she is done with her education. With the amount of intelligence, compassion and outstanding work ethic that she has, there seems to be no reason she should not live up to the high expectations that she has set for herself. “I hope to end up in a career where I’m actively involved in social change,” she explained. “I’m a big advocate for, and very passionate about, equality and justice for all people.”
In my personal opinion, and an opinion I hope most of America will share someday, I would campaign hard for Jefferys for President in 2032.
When she’s not working her butt off studying so she can make the dean’s list (3 times in her last 3 semesters here, I should add), Abi is busy treating herself to a lot of coffee and spending time with friends. She has played intramural soccer for the past 2 years and even has a rec season of volleyball under her belt. Back home, Abi works at a restaurant called The Ranch House, a popular Perry County eatery — most famous for its chicken and waffles dish.
In all, Abi is one of the most genuine and caring people I know. She is going to high places, and it will be an amazing experience to watch where she flies.
I asked Abi a few fun facts just because and here were her answers!
What is your favorite TV Show or movie? Some of my favorite TV shows are One Tree Hill, Shameless, Game of Thrones, and Friends.  I don’t really have a favorite movie but I like a lot of romantic comedies or war/time-period type movies.
What is your favorite spot on campus? I don’t really have a favorite spot on campus.  I think the whole campus is very beautiful and the atmosphere is always very comfortable, especially on warm and sunny days.
What is your favorite quote/saying that you live by? Something that I always remind myself is, “It’ll all be worth it in the end.” I’ve worked and pushed myself very hard throughout my academic career, and continue to do so, and it hasn’t always been easy for me.  I know that, although at times I feel completely overwhelmed and stressed and like I can’t put any more of myself into what I’m doing, that all of that determination, motivation, and hard work will pay off in the end.
Do you have any tattoos? I have one!
What is your favorite vacation spot? My favorite vacation spot is at the Outer Banks in North Carolina; it’s so peaceful there.  For me, it’s almost like time stops when I’m there.  It’s a place where I can clear my head and completely relax.
*Images courtesy of Abi Jefferys