Carrie Dawkins: A Campus Celebrity with a Cause (or Two)!

1. What is your full name?
Carolyn Elizabeth Dawkins, goes by Carrie.

2. How are you involved here at VCU?
I am part of STAT, Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, Runner’s Club @ VCU, Honors College, MCV volunteering, VCU Rec Sports (soccer), and Aletheia.

3. Why did you choose Alpha Xi Delta? 
I chose my sorority because I loved what they stood for (realize your potential), and what they supported (Autism Speaks). I loved all the girls that I met and realized that while we were all very different, we all shared a similar spark that brought us together through AXiD, and they are some of the most amazing women I’ve ever met. I also liked that Alpha Xi Delta is a new sorority on campus, so I would get to be one of a few who would get the opportunity to establish AXiD at VCU and we would be able to create our own reputation.

4. What other causes mean are important to you? Why?
Susan G. Komen’s fight against breast cancer is special to me because my mom is a breast cancer survivor.

5. You ran in the Ukrop’s 10K—what reasons do you have for involving yourself in the community?
I ran the Monument Avenue 10K firstly to stay in shape, and secondly because it’s a huge event that happens literally down the street from where we live. People come from all around to participate, and the entire Richmond community comes out to support the runners. I thought it would be an awesome way to participate in something really cool and have fun while staying in shape, and it was awesome!

6. Why did you choose to join the Honors College?
I joined because the Honors College has a great physical therapy program that will hopefully help me into the graduate physical therapy program at MCV.

7. How do you deal with the heavy workload of all your activities and academics?
It’s really all about time management. That being said, I’m still learning myself how to not procrastinate and get my work done earlier.

8. What tips do you have for the stressed collegiette? 
Even though I agree work needs to be done, the body also needs breaks. Taking a 30 minute break to relax with friends is a good way to give the mind a rest. I, personally, think exercise is the best way to relax and recharge the mind, although I admit it’s sometimes hard to work up the motivation to go to the gym.

9. What degree are you pursuing, and how do you hope to apply it in the future?
I’m majoring in Psychology, with a concentration in Physical Therapy. I hope to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist. I think that by studying child psychology I can better be equipped to help and understand the kids.

10. What are your favorite things about VCU and Richmond?
I love the city aspect and the diversity, and knowing that there is always something going on. Most of all, I’ve made extremely good friends here.

11. How would you describe yourself in five words? 
I Hate These Short Descriptions. Just kidding, um… No, really, I think no one can be described in 5 words!

12. Is there anything else you would like Her Campus to know?
Not really, maybe just don’t forget it’s Autism Awareness Month, and to stay tuned for more support events like the Xi Softball Classic on Friday, April 13!