Tampa Campus Court | USF Homecoming

Tampa Campus Homecoming 2021 Court

Caitlyn Deam

Caitlyn Deam is a junior at the University of South Florida and Judy Genshaft Honors College, double majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology and Criminology, and minoring in Deaf Studies. After USF, she hopes to pursue an MD/JD career path with a focus in criminal law and forensic pathology. As such, she is involved in many areas on campus and seeks to represent the student body of USF. Currently, Caitlyn serves as a Community and Leadership Coordinator on the JGHC Student Council, and a Peer Mentor Lead in the Honors College. She is also a member of the pre-medical professional fraternity Phi Delta Epsilon, as well as the founding Programming Director for the Orthopedics and Athletic Medicine Club at USF. In the prelaw sector, she is the treasurer for the pre-law professional fraternity Phi Alpha Delta, and a member of the USF Mock Trial Team. Caitlyn is also a Bulls Nite Out Director under the Center for Student Involvement, working closely with USF to provide students with more engagement opportunities on campus. She has also served as a Senator for Tampa Campus in Student Government, is involved in undergraduate research and volunteering, and is currently working at Moffitt Cancer Center.

Being a part of this tradition will make you a member of an elite group of students who represent the best and brightest of the USF student body. With that, why are you interested in running for Homecoming Court and what would you do to impact your campus if crowned?

I am interested in running for Homecoming Court because of the passion and love that I have developed for USF and its students throughout my years here, and my want to represent them and their future ambitions. I believe that I can dutifully fulfill my role and be the voice of the students on campus, listening to their wants and enacting change where I can. I hope to provide a symbol of leadership and trust in the community, and to unite students from all different sectors on campus through USF pride and spirit. I am excited to see what the future holds, and I believe that I can be an individual who represents these students and this USF spirit proudly and professionally. If I were crowned, my goal would be to focus on student engagement and experience. The impact that I would want to leave would be centered around student happiness and success at USF. I believe that starting internally with the student body allows us as a whole to do amazing things in the community and even farther. It would be my duty to make USF a place where they can feel heard, comfortable, engaged, and properly represented. I feel as though there have been several challenges since coming back to campus that many students experience, and it would be my desire to learn what these challenges may be and how we can overcome them. I would love to interact with students across all areas on campus and learn about how they can be supported or what they need to succeed, not just as a student, but as an individual. By knowing our student body, we are able to make changes that matter to them and make them feel at home, as it is them that are mostly impacted.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

I would say that a highlight of my time at my USF home campus would be the present. I was only on campus for one semester before COVID hit, so the return to campus has been a very welcoming experience and an amazing opportunity to connect more with other students and become involved in things that allow me to contribute to others and the community. While we were virtual, I was able to lay a foundation down in terms of goals and involvement, both academic and non-academic, and it was very exciting to be able to make all of those dreams a reality. Since my first semester on campus, I had wanted to become as involved as possible at USF, and this current semester is really the first time I have been able to physically see these dreams become a reality. I have made so many great memories in just this semester alone in all of the organizations I am a part of, from hosting my first Bulls Nite Out, to competing in Atlanta with the Mock Trial team, to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity with my pre-medical fraternity. I can honestly say that, although it has been busy, these past few weeks at USF have been my favorite. Being able to be a part of something larger than yourself makes you feel so fulfilled and happy, and that is exactly what I have been given the privilege of experiencing this semester at USF.

Chavarria Williams

Chavarria Williams is a junior at the University of South Florida, where she is studying social work for her bachelor's degree. She has been quite active on campus during her stay at the University of South Florida. Chavarria began her studies in Elementary Education before deciding to pursue a career in Social Work. Chavarria was a member of the Living Learning Community at the College of Education. Chavarria's first organization on campus was the National Council of Negro Women, Inc, where she currently serves as treasurer. As treasurer for NCNW, she is responsible for overseeing the organization's financial administration, reviewing procedures and financial reporting, advising the board on financial strategy, and fundraising. The Black Female Development Circle was Chavarria's second organization to join. Chavarria is currently the BFDC's Social Membership Chair, and her responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of membership, including invitations, retention, and education, as well as bringing in new members, organizing social events, as well as general body meetings, and ensuring that the member experience meets everyone's expectations. Chavarria works on campus as well. She is employed by the Academic Success Center: SmartLab, which is located on the Library's second floor. Chavarria has made many lifelong connections as a result of her involvement in these organizations and her employment on the USF campus. And there's more to come

I am interested in running for Homecoming Court because I love this university. I’ve been at USF since Fall 2019 and am involved in multiple organizations on campus. With those organizations I’ve found who I was as a person, and it made me grow into the woman I am today. I am motivated to see USF as a school that thrives. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. Whereas, not many young black females my age had the opportunity to go on the adventure I have. So, if I were to be crowned, my goal would be to ensure that future generations of Miami residents are enlightened and inspired. Whether they are enrolled in a public white institution or a historically black college. I want them to realize that as an educated black woman, they can do everything they set their minds to. This position will create another avenue for me to represent the positive values of our school, by providing another opportunity as a face of diversity on campus. I am great at reaching a variety of people. I have good leadership skills that I would like to use to get more student body involved with on campus activities. Representing the USF Tampa campus would be more than just an honor, it would be an accomplishment that I would cherish for the rest of my life.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

I've had a handful of unforgettable experiences during my stay at USF. I was a member of the College of Education's Living Learning Community my first year at USF, where I met some of my lifelong friends. I joined The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. in my second year, where I met many women who looked like me and shared similar goals and interests. I got more involved in college by going to social events, football games, study groups, and hanging out with a diverse mix of people from various organizations. Then, in my third year, I joined the Black Female Development Circle Organization, which collaborated with the Black Student Union, Iota Phi Theta, and several other organizations. And, whether I'm on campus or off, I'm always having a good time with these organizations. There are never any negative vibes. I've spent so much time with members of these organizations and communities that they've become like family to me. There is never a dull moment at USF, which is one of the things I enjoy about it. It always felt like a safe haven.

Erika Miller

Erika Miller, a fourth-year student double majoring in Corporate Finance and Business Analytics/Information Systems with a minor in English: Literature Studies. She has held multiple USF campus leadership positions beginning in her first-year when she became the Marketing Director of the French Club at the University of South Florida. She later became President of the French Club for the following three years. As a business major, Miller was highly involved in the Bulls Business Community (BBC) LLC as a student, a mentor to four first-year students and became a Resident Assistant for the BBC in her third-year at USF. She also became a Peer Leader for SLS 2901: Academic Foundations Seminar where she had the opportunity to directly work with 30 students. During her third-year, she took part in the Collegiate Leadership of Tampa Bay sponsored by the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and Muma College of Business where she gained professional experience in the community and is now working as an intern for a non-profit

In running for Homecoming Court, I am hoping to continue being a part in USF life and continuing being a direct influence to those I am able to work with. USF has a community of students who are all here to achieve academic and personal development and there is such a unique culture that has been created over the years in the Tampa Bay Area. Running for Homecoming Court allows for me to impact the campus if crowned by letting other students know that it is okay to apply for leadership positions and to get involved. Learning just how important it is to network and to put yourself out there.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

Being in my last year of university, I have had many wonderful experiences while being at USF. One of the best highlights was during my first-year here when I had a meeting with my literature professor. During this meeting we had a discussion over changing my major to English: Literature Studies. We decided that it was best for me to pursue it as a minor instead. From this experience, I gained a new understanding and respect from professors and just how much they may care about your personal growth and development. I know have officially completed this passion of mine that would never been achieved or thought of if it had not been from my professor.

Jillian Wilson

Jillian Wilson is a third-year undergraduate student majoring in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in English in the Judy Genshaft Honors College. She came to USF as an out-of-state student from Kansas and has made the most of her experience here in Tampa Bay. To share about her involvement, she dove in head first her freshman year by participating in the STEM Academy, Emerging Leadership Institute, Hall Council, and began working in the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement as a Student Organizations Project Assistant. Since then, she has also joined the USF Conduct Board and has served as a Senator within Student Government. Currently, she is the Student Body Vice President and is working to complete the Global Citizens Project. She volunteers at the Moffitt Cancer Center on the Tampa campus and has recently been trained for their Comfort Care Program. She also is a Director on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and advises the University President as the only student appointed to the University Leadership Council. She is well-versed in the wants and needs of the USF Student Body and she cannot wait to represent all of Bulls Nation on the USF Homecoming Court.

Being a member of the Homecoming Court is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I do not want to pass up during my time at USF. I wholeheartedly love our USF community and I would be honored to serve on the Homecoming Court and represent all of Bulls Nation. Not only to be on the court, but if I would have the immense honor to be selected as Homecoming Royalty, I would use my platform to represent all USF students on our three campuses. I want all students regardless of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, or sexuality to feel like their voices are heard and prioritized. I never take the opportunities I have lightly, as I know not all students have the same privilege that I do. This said, I will use my position of privilege humbly and continue listening to minority students, faculty and staff that need their voices heard, and advocate for their needs to administration. In addition, I will use the honor of being Homecoming Royalty to create a OneUSF atmosphere that embraces and celebrates our diverse student body, similarly to how I represent all students as the current Student Body Vice President. USF is tirelessly working to become a household name as a Preeminent University and rise to the top of the national rankings and I want to use our University’s success to shine a light on the talented, intelligent, and successful Bulls we have right here on our campuses. As a member of the Court and possible Royalty, I plan to use my platform to bring attention to those that need the microphone or need their hard work to be highlighted. I will use the spotlight to give it to those more talented than I and be the number one supporter to all of our brilliant Bulls.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

USF has given me many opportunities that I am extremely thankful for, but one of my greatest highlights from my time at USF would be getting to volunteer during the Fall 2019 Homecoming Parade. I was a member of my residence hall’s Hall Council and we were able to decorate a golf cart, also known as our ‘float,’ table on the sidewalk of Holly Drive before, during, and after the parade, and all of this gave me a raw look at what USF Homecoming means to the Tampa Bay community. My role within the Homecoming Parade that year was not a large one, but I loved every second. My residence hall went for a fan favorite and decorated our float to be Spongebob themed and I volunteered at our table along Holly Drive where we had contestants participate in a ring toss to win prizes. Students, family members, alumni, and little future Bulls all got to play and earn prizes and it truly made me feel like I had a place within our USF family. For the Homecoming Parade to take place, it takes weeks of planning and many hours of hard work. Getting to work behind the scenes was an incredible opportunity and to see it finally pay off and see the joy on everyone’s faces the day of the parade made it all worth it. Even with my small role as a Mayor in Hall Council, I started to realize how much work USF partners, students, alumni, departments, etc. put into hosting these events solely because of the love we all have for the University of South Florida. It is our home and seeing that amount of school spirit, kindness, and community made it one of my most memorable experiences from USF that I will forever cherish.

Julia Cunningham

Julia Cunningham is a senior at the University of South Florida pursuing a double major in psychology and political science. She currently serves as the Student Body President for the 2nd Consolidated term of Student Government. Cunningham is also on the Executive Board for the student organization Minorities in Pre-Law. This organization is dedicated to providing minority students with equitable access to resources to assist them in getting into law school. Prior to her election as Student Body President, she served as a Student Government Senator and the Vice Chairperson of the Ethics Committee. During her time as a Senator, she sponsored several bills including a resolution to move USF towards 100% renewable energy by 2040. As the Vice Chair of the Ethics Committee, she oversaw investigations into student misconduct and the confirmations of federal appointments. She was also a Mayor in Hall Council at her dormitory where she was tasked with fundraising, hosting activities, and creating a welcoming environment for incoming students. I am a proud Bull and I have a deep love for our community and I am dedicated to continuing its growth.

My name is Julia Cunningham, and I’m a Senior majoring in Psychology & Political Science. Last year, I served as Mayor for Castor Hall in the Hall Council. Currently, I serve as the Student Body President where I have dedicated myself to the service of my fellow Bulls. Additionally, I am on the Executive Board of the Minorities in Pre-Law Club. I also work on campus as a lifeguard where I promote campus safety. I love our school, but I’m realistic enough to know that it can be improved. That is why I chose to run for Homecoming Court. With this position, my goal would be to listen, work, and serve the entire student body to create an environment we can all thrive in and be proud of. When chosen for this elite group, I will streamline the process by which the administrations provides communication and collaboration for the students and student organizations. I will dedicate myself to diversity and inclusion initiatives address issues particular to them such as providing a platform for them to speak and listen to their needs for them to thrive in our community. By synergizing the relationship between the Homecoming Court and administration, we can all work together to address the important issues facing USF. Further, I would like to utilize this position and my current role as Student Body President to continue to achieve the initiatives that I campaigned on. I’m a proud Bull, and I want to be at the service of my fellow Bulls as a member of the Homecoming Court, just as I have as Student Body President. As always, Go Bulls!

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

Beyond the academic education I received, the values that I was taught here are the highlight of my experience at USF. Being engaged in my community and being a responsible citizen are two of the important things I've learned. Further, I've learned to continue to develop my leadership skills and deepen my interpersonal relationships. I've also been taught to never lose the motivation that I've gained here and am dedicated to continue my intellectual growth. Most importantly, I've appreciated the University's dedication treat people with kindness and respect. Beyond my education, I've truly appreciated how the University encourages us to grow outside of our academics. I want to do other things, fun things, ambitious things. Travel. Fall in love. Take leaps of faith. Read and learn and grow. I want to all of these things, but in all I do, I err on the side of kindness. It has been said that it is harder to be kind than clever. Cleverness is a gift, but kindness is a choice. Therefore, we have to try to be kind. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you came from, or where you’re going, I implore everyone of you to try. Try to make the world a better place. Look inside yourself and recognize that change is possible and it all starts with you. This idea and vision and all the wonderful lessons I've learned have truly been the highlights of my time at USF.

Kyden Payne

Kyden Payne is a current 4th year English Major and Pre-Med student who is dedicated to being an involved and active student leader. Since arriving at USF in 2018, Kyden has made it his mission to be as involved on campus as possible by pursuing his passions through joining and holding active leadership roles in various student organizations. Kyden is currently the Chapter President of Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity and the Founder/President of a brand new organization on campus known as OAM at USF, helping to bring together over 100 pre-health students and direct over $2000 of fundraising for the partnered philanthropy within the first month of being established. Kyden is also a published author and held the position as Junior Editor (2019) and Editor-In-Chief (2020) for USF's Literary Magazine on Campus, Thread. During his tenure as President of Thread, Kyden helped to lead an editing team to break submission records and create a magazine that was accessible for those with visual impairments through the use of QRCode audio recordings. Kyden is also passionate about USF community service, using his expertise as a black belt martial artist to provide free selfdefense classes for students in his free time.

Representing your community at the highest level is a true privilege and distinction to earn and hold. Being able to join an elite-cohort of individuals would be an honor that I would carry for the rest of my life. I have always been a strong proponent of leading by example and having the personal mission to positively impact as many people as possible, which is a large driving force for pursuing a career in the medical field as a physician. While being at USF, I feel that through my constant involvement in student-life and leadership, I have been able to positively impact many other students by programming events, creating organizations, hosting free seminars and being a model student on campus that strives for both excellence and an example of kindness within the community. Running for Homecoming Court would allow me the platform to positively impact even more members of our great university, motivating those to get more involved and make the most of their time here at USF, leading by example. Holding the honor of being on the 2021 Homecoming Court would be a wonderful distinction, and an opportunity I would keep with me for a lifetime.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

Selecting a single highlight thus far during my time at USF is difficult as I have had so many positive experiences that have helped to shape me into the person I am today, of which I am extremely grateful. As I look back upon my undergraduate career, however, what stands out to me the most would be a recent reflection of starting my own student organization on campus. Since I arrived at USF in 2018 I had a dream to start my own organization one day, and leave it as a legacy to continue impacting lives after I graduate. It wasn’t until this year (my final year) that I felt I had accumulated enough leadership experience to do as such. Creating OAM at USF, an organization dedicated to bringing together pre-health students that vary in career goals but share commonality in interest through the world of orthopedics and sports medicine, has facilitated the growth of an inclusive community rooted in philanthropy, volunteering, and academics. Within the first few months of coming up with the concept of the organization, through hard work and the aid of my incredible executive-board, this brand new organization has surpassed over 100 active members, raised over $2000 through fundraising events for local Special Olympics athletes in Hillsborough County and held unique seminars from healthcare specialists in the field. Additionally, I have been able to facilitate the expansion of OAM to other universities such as UCF, FSU and UF, to further spread the mission and values. Being able to conjure an organization such as this and build it up to where it can continue to flourish and impact lives long after I graduate is an extremely fulfilling and heartwarming experience.

Martika Major

Throughout Martika's journey at The University of South Florida, she has joined the USF Mock Trial team, The National Council of Negro Women Inc., participated in Miss. Black and Gold Pagent, active in Student Government. She joined the Mock Trial team because it allowed ambitious young pre-law students to gain hands-on experience and compete while learning about the workings of our legal system. During her freshman year, she participated in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Miss. Black and Gold Pagent and was crowed, Miss. Gold. She joined Student Government her sophomore year as Solicitor general for the 60TH term and rejoined her senior year as the Tampa Student Legal Advocate for the 2nd Consolidated term. Joining The National Council of Negro Women provided her with a sisterhood of like-minded women the space to lead, develop and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities. She was inducted into NCNW fall 2019, was the special events chair 2019-2020, and served as president from May 2020- June 2021.

I am currently on a prelaw track to become an attorney because I have a passion for advocating for others. It is vital that every student feels that their voice is heard. I am interested in running for Homecoming Court because it would provide me with a platform to support student safe spaces. Specifically, spaces that discuss the struggles of being in school and the ups and downs that come with the struggles people experience. For instance, If I am crowned, I would advocate for safe spaces for students to have the ability to discuss topics such as encouragement and support, confidence in themselves and the way we view ourselves, and the school's impact on their mental health

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

It is honestly difficult to choose only one moment from my entire experience thus far. Still, one of the best highlights of my time at USF is being elected president of the USF section of the National Council of Negro Women. When I joined the organization as a new member, I felt as though the environment was a home away from home. The sisterhood is strong and caring and prioritizes advocacy and community service, which are critical to me. Becoming the president allowed me to lead and support our members and executive board. Within NCNW and in collaboration with so many different organizations on campus, I have had the opportunity to attend, plan, and assist with a plethora of events for the student body. Connecting with the student body has always resulted in good conversation, laughs, debates, and the creation of memories. Being the president allowed me to have a direct form of communication with other organization leaders. It was also a highlight of my experience because I was entrusted with a number of responsibilities and expectations, and I was forced to get out of my comfort zone and become a versatile leader to complement individuals' different learning styles. It was a challenge, but it was completely worth every moment.

Muhammad Hambal

My name is Muhammad Hambal, and I am an initiative-rich, analytical, and problem-solving individual who is always looking to make a positive impact and helping people. Currently a senior at USF Tampa Campus, double majoring in Economics and Statistics. In my 2 years at USF, I have served as JGHC Peer and Orientation Mentor, INTO USF student leader, Senator, Intramurals official, Desk and mail clerk for Housing and residential, Academic services Tutor for stats and business calculus at Library, and IT Systems support assistant. I have also worked on numerous projects alongside academia that has helped me enhance my research and analytical capabilities. As an Equity Research Associate at Student Investment Club, I performed comprehensive financial research on mid and large-cap size companies in the Technology Sector and provided a streamlined bi-weekly report that summed up my due diligence and statistical analysis performed. Additionally, I also worked on a research project with my Economics professor where I performed regression analysis on DHS South Africa data sets utilizing statistical modeling tools such as Stata to find the correlation between domestic violence and pensions with my PDH Economics Professor. Currently, I serve as the Vice President of Economics Scholars Society where I help students navigate resources to improve their resumes, cover letters, interviews, and targeted job searches.

Being a part of this tradition will definitely make me a member of an elite group of students but honestly, I feel like an elite student at USF anyways. Whenever I go to any dining hall, the staff greets me with a smile that I feel is personalized just for me. The way that career services interact with me seems like all they care about is me and my career growth. Whenever I ask for an extension for a deadline from a professor for some reason, I feel like they understand me. However, the dilemma is that I bet almost all students feel the same way I do, so does that actually makes me elite? I have always been and always will stay true to my journey, pursue what I have been already pursuing, positively impact the people around me the same way I have been doing. The only difference this crown will make is that more students will be able to look at me and will think of my journey as their own and will feel proud of themselves and their journey.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

I chose the University of South Florida because of the diverse student population, aesthetic campus, and potential leadership opportunities and I can proudly say that choosing this university was the best decision I made so far. USF hasn't let me down in any of my expectations. There are resources available at my disposal with little or no effort. I have personally used career services, student health services, writing studio, and obviously the massage chairs which are no longer available due to Covid:(. It was the amazing experiences at USF that did not let me feel homesick even though I was away from my family, especially during Covid. USF has helped me get ready for the real World.

Pedro Abdo Breviglieri Nader

Born and raised in Brazil, Pedro started his journey at the University of South Florida as a Business Analytics and Information Systems Student. What he didn’t expect, was how involved he would become with his campus and community. During his first year, he joined the Bulls Business Community and met like-minded individuals who encouraged him to keep pursuing his interests. Involved with the Tennis Club, the Beef Studs, International Student Association, and more, Pedro started to develop a desire to give back to the community. As the pandemic hit, he kept motivated and returned to school as a Bulls Business Community Mentor, Deans List Student, Vice President for the International Student Association, and Consultant for HEXA, the first Junior Enterprise in Florida. As he developed professional skills, he became Head of Marketing for HEXA, working with clients around the Tampa Bay area and sharing his knowledge with other students. Not satisfied, Pedro also joined the Collegiate Leadership program at the Tampa Bay Chamber with the intent to make connections and give back to the broader community. After achieving so much, he humbles himself by realizing that there is still so much more to come.

I believe that traditions represent the brightest side of any organization. Being part of a tradition that started in 1964 would make me fulfilled to give back to the community, as I wholeheartedly represent the Bull Spirit. Since moving to the United States, I was concerned with my adaptation and transition to new cultures. To my surprise, I felt at home as soon as I arrived at the Tampa Campus. I felt like I belonged. Orientation assured me I was right where I was supposed to be, and I felt valued to be who I am. Since then, I felt the urge to give back to the community and represent USF by being the best version of myself. The urge of giving back led me to work for New Student Connection, Bulls Business Community, and more! Being part of the tradition and homecoming would allow me to spread the idea that USF students must be welcoming, empowering, determined, and more. If crowned, I will use the exposure to spread the true meaning of being a USF student by leading by example.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

The highlight of my Home campus happened during my freshman year during Homecoming 2019. I was invited to hop in the International Student Association float for the Parade. As I stood there, I noticed how many families were there to watch the parade, and that was when I realized I was part of a much larger community. The University of South Florida impacts the whole Tampa Bay area, and I felt excited to know that I have the opportunity to positively impact a larger community than previously thought by showing exemplar scholarship and character. This was around the time USF played its homecoming football game, the one we won last minute. I was part of the students who get body-painted for the game, and at that moment, hugging my friends, I felt like I was where I was supposed to be. It was the happiest I ever felt. With that joy, came the sense of responsibility of rightfully representing this amazing community and the sense of excitement, knowing I could be a good ambassador to what USF embodies.

Rolynn Wilson

Rolynn Wilson is a senior at the University of South Florida majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in broadcast news with minors in both Sociology and Communications. During her academic career, she has involved herself in a variety of ways which aids in her overall USF experience and impact on its community. Rolynn is the current president of the Zeta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and serves as the Vice President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Career involvements are specifically important to her as she has worked with Student Government as The Executive Director of Marketing and Communications and with Housing and Residential Education as the News in 90 Anchor and Reporter. She has also worked closely with the Alumni Association as a Black Leadership Network Scholar and an Ambassador where she currently represents “The Spirit of USF”.

Since it was established in 1956, The University of South Florida has pushed boundaries and grew beyond comparison while providing me with an excellent education and opportunity for students, one of those students being me. From my first day of classes in the summer of 2018 until now my experience here has provided me with academic skills, career development, and most importantly the opportunity to grow into the person that I am today and lead that legacy in the years to come. This experience has been one that I will truly never forget and being able to represent a student body and university of like-minded individuals will allow me to open the doors for others like me to experience the great things that this university has to offer. If crowned, this would give me the platform to showcase opportunities for students like me and create a space where others feel welcomed and appreciated.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

Before coming to the University of South Florida, the only Rolynn that I knew was someone who would rather be comfortable instead of stepping outside the box, and someone who would rather not be heard, and not take on the opportunity to lead. This all changed in 2018 when I left that life behind me and started on a journey that I didn’t know at the time would bring me to where I am today which is a complete 180 degrees from where I started. From joining my very first organization on campus to leading in different capacities, I would say the highlight of my time at USF would be finding myself and my community. Now I am leaving this University better than I came in various ways alongside a group of peers, friends, and new family who will continue to push me to do my best beyond our days here as students. The university experience is like none other and without the diverse background that this university offers and support that my community has given me, I would be the same Rolynn that I knew before.

Whitney Clark

Whitney Clark is in her third year at the University of South Florida. She is pursuing a degree in Environmental Science and Policy with a concentration in policy. She is double minoring in Public Health and African Studies. While Whitney has had quite an unorthodox college career due to the pandemic, she has continuously succeeded. Her freshman year she was involved in the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes STEM Academy, Emerging Leadership Cohort, Judy Genshaft Honors College, and Rotaract International. Whitney also served as a learning assistant for Biology Two her freshman year. Her sophomore year, Whitney served as USF Rotaract's fundraising chair in addition to performing environmental COVID-19 testing for her lab. She is now serving as USF Rotaracts Vice President. Whitney has also been a part of the USF Ambassadors program since the Spring of 2020. Last year, she served the Ambassadors as the organization's Internal Affairs chair. This year, Whitney is serving as the Vice President for the Ambassadors.

Before my first day at USF in the fall of 2019, I remember restlessly tossing and turning in my brand new (to me) twin XL student housing bed in nervous anticipation for the life I was just beginning. It was then in my disrupted slumber that I made a promise to myself to be involved in something more than just classes during my time at USF. I had no understanding of the ample opportunities that were in store over the next couple of years; however, I possessed the initial curiosity, passion, and confidence to pursue these unknown pathways. Through pursuing these pathways, I have had the opportunity to connect with many people who have encouraged me daily. These people showed me the true "Spirit of USF,". This "Spirit," cannot be directly defined; it must be experienced. Every experience I have had at USF has increased my understanding of what it means to be a part of the University of South Florida community. This sense of community has propelled me to apply myself in ways that I never imagined. I like to believe that every student at USF also has the ability to do great things. I am applying for Homecoming Court as I believe the message I have is an important one. If crowned, I will work alongside my peers to expand outreach to all students on campus so they too can feel what it means to be a part of the USF community. I would specifically like to extend this spirit to transfer students as I know how uncomfortable it can be at times to enter an unfamiliar environment. Ideally, I would like to work alongside the Office of Transfer Student Success to ensure that each transfer student feels not only included, but motivated to fulfill their potential.

What is a highlight of your time at your USF home campus?

Every Tuesday, I frantically scan the Honor Roll (the Judy Genshaft Honors College weekly newsletter) for opportunities available in the USF community and beyond. One particular afternoon during my weekly scan, I saw an image of several students dressed in green blazers and khaki bottoms. The title above the image prompted me to apply to be a USF Ambassador. I was immediately interested and spent the rest of the afternoon scouring the internet for more information about the program. To my surprise, I could not find much information other than the organization's website that claimed Ambassadors served as a link between students and alumni. I also found the bios for all the current members of the organization. Immediately, I thought, "oh no, maybe this isn't for me," as I saw each member had a string of varied campus involvement and academic success. Despite these feelings of insecurity, I attended their meet and greet with the hopes of finding out further information. I tried my best to look nice but casual with a floral blouse, medium-washed denim jeans, and white converse. Upon entering the alumni center, I saw men in suits and women in professional dresses. I did stay at the event despite feeling drastically out of place. The event began with several Ambassadors recounting the same material I was able to research online. During the event, I remember thinking, "Is this a cult?" I am now aware that Ambassadors is not, in fact, a cult but instead a wonderful collective of people with an extreme passion for the University. The process to become an Ambassador was one of the most mentally strenuous and nerve-racking things I have ever done; however, becoming a University of South Florida Ambassador is my proudest accomplishment and the highlight of my USF career.