Launchpad Student Success Center

What advice would you give to a new student?

Ask questions early and often. Figuring things out on your own is an important skill, but so is knowing when you’re stuck and who to talk to about it. You have a whole team of professionals here to help, so take advantage of these resources!

Name one hobby that you have...

I’m a roller skater. Note: I did not say a *good* roller skater.

What is one stress buster that you use?

I keep a glitter jar at my desk. When I get overwhelmed, I shake it up and watch the flakes float back to the bottom.

What do you like most about Tech?

The quality of the education. As a Tech grad myself, I can attest to the stellar preparation I received to be an effective thinker and communicator on the job.

What advice would you give to a new student?

Give yourself grace. You’re not expected to know everything when you arrive. College is a new chapter, different from anything you’ve experienced before. Be patient with yourself as you grow, learn, and find your way. And one more thing, don't procrastinate!

Name one hobby that you have...

I love photography, writing poetry, coaching soccer, teaching parkour, and most of all, helping others grow.

What is one stress buster that you use?

I’d be lying if I didn’t say playing video games, watching anime, or working out! Each one helps me reset and recharge in different ways.

What do you like most about Tech?

What I love most about Tech is that it taught me to give myself grace, hence my advice to new students. As the first in my family to navigate college, the journey hasn’t always been easy. Each step I take in my academic career also clears the path for others behind me. I strive to share the knowledge I didn’t have and to support those who feel lost. Grace comes from within, but without the support of Tech, including professors, instructors, students, friends, and colleagues, I wouldn’t be here chasing my dreams and finishing my academic journey.

What advice would you give to a new student?

Set goals. I believe each student needs a few short- and long-term goals to work toward. Once you know your schedule, get organized, make a plan, and start working on completing your goals.

Name one hobby that you have...

My family and I enjoy kayaking when we can find time. We visit different rivers in middle Tennessee. My husband and son fish from their kayaks. My daughter and I just float and take in the beauty of the day.

What is one stress buster that you use?

I find I am most at peace when I am outside. After a day at work, I love to sit on the back patio and listen to nature. I also spend time curating my flowers and garden.

What do you like most about Tech?

I love how Tech's buildings, greenspaces, and people create an educational ambience that surpasses all other Universities.

What advice would you give to a new student?

Find people that are on your team and lean on community and friendship. Rather than fearing asking questions, try to find empowerment in seeking answers.

Name one hobby that you have...

I love making art, studying interior design, hugging my cat Obito, and being with my friends.

What is one stress buster that you use?

Decluttering my space, spontaneous painting, and rewatching movies are among my most beloved stress relievers.

What do you like most about Tech?

Tech became home when I was a student here, and I fell in love with the community. Tech has blessed me with lifelong friendships, direction for my future, and an education that I’m proud of.

What advice would you give to a new student?

College can feel overwhelming but remember you do not have to do it alone. Show up to class, reach out when things get tough, and be gentle with yourself along the way. Take time to rest, explore new interests, and build connections that matter. It’s okay to not have everything figured out. This journey is about discovering who you are as much as it is about what you are studying. Enjoy this season of your life. It is truly what you make of it. 

Name one hobby that you have...

I am a huge fan of musicals. I love going to see them live in the theater, curling up on the couch and watching them at home, or performing every role for my nonexistent audience in the car. If I had to choose a favorite it would be Les Misérables, but Hamilton is a close second. 

What is one stress buster that you use?

Whenever I am stressed or things seem overwhelming, I surround myself with family and friends that can encourage me, support me, and take my mind off whatever may be going on. I have found that laughter is truly the best medicine, and things never seem as stressful after you have taken a step back and looked at them from a different perspective.

What do you like most about Tech?

Even though I did not go to school here and I am not from this area, I have felt at home since the moment I stepped on campus. The community here is like no other. People are so friendly and so welcoming. It is truly an environment that nurtures both academic excellence and personal development.

What advice would you give to a new student?

‘This too shall pass’ – the good AND the bad! Enjoy the present by getting involved in your community, and don’t get overwhelmed by the day to day.

Name one hobby that you have...

Does rote memorization of the entirety of iMDB for the purposes of being a future “6 degrees of Kevin Bacon” Champion count as a hobby?

What is one stress buster that you use?

Comedy podcasts – laughter can be the best medicine.

What do you like most about Tech?

I love how student-centered the campus is. As a student, I always felt supported, listened to, and respected. As a staff member, I’m here to do the same for you!

What advice would you give to a new student?

The best piece of advice that I have to offer is to truly enjoy your experience. These next four years will require a lot of discipline, hard work, and efficient time management. However, in the midst of all of that, it is important to make connections, enjoy your time, and have fun in the process. I encourage you to maximize every opportunity and resource at your disposal to set yourself up for success. 

Name one hobby that you have...

I love spending time with my husky, Layla — she’s my best friend.

What is one stress buster that you use?

Spending time with my family is the best stress buster that I have and it always recenters me. Even if it is a simple phone call or Facetime, being able to have that energy exchange with my loved ones calms me down.

What do you like most about Tech?

As cliché as it might sound, what I love most about this place is how community-oriented it is. I’ve been here a long time now, and I can honestly say my life changed for the better when I came here as a student. I’ve met people who have been invaluable to my life, and I’ve experienced some of my most exciting moments to date because of Tech. I owe a lot to this place.

What advice would you give to a new student?

Organization is key! Whether it be a planner or on your phone, you need something to keep up with all of your assignments for class, exams, or projects. You need to see what all you have going on so you can make time for things outside of class and work. Schedule time to attend campus events or events in the community. One of the most important things to remember is to make the most out of your college experience.

Name one hobby that you have...

I love spending time with my bernedoodle, WentWorth! We take an occasional trip to Starbucks for a pup cup!

What is one stress buster that you use?

When life gets stressful, reading allows me to escape into another world. I love to curl up on the couch with a good book, blanket, and of course WentWorth. I also light a candle to create a warm, cozy environment.

What do you like most about Tech?

Tech is my home away from home. I was a student here and fell in love with the campus and community.

What advice would you give to a new student?

Allow yourself to make mistakes but LEARN from them so that NO experience is wasted because discovering what you DO NOT want to do most likely will lead you to what you DO WANT.

Name one hobby that you have...

Theatre including storytelling, applied theater, and creating.

What is one stress buster that you use?

Time outdoors with family.

What do you like most about Tech?

The people and the beautiful campus close to nature and bigger cities.