Student Spotlight: Whitney Baugh

Year: Sophomore
Major: Business Marketing

Whitney can be seen all around the campus because she is usually trying to find a story to write for the newspaper. As a founding member and current president of GGC's student newspaper “The Grizzly Growl,” she is aware of the significance for her in creating such an integral part of college life.

“It was hard to do and still has its ups and downs, but together with Erin Corrigan-Smith, we did it. I am really proud of that.”

With her energetic personality, it is no wonder she is pursuing a degree in marketing.

“I have always loved working on how to get people involved with different things whether it be my peers, family, or my fellow students. I also learned at an early age how to be a business woman so I just combined the two. I want to minor in English because I feel it will give me the tools necessary to pursue a career having to do with business and journalism.”

She is also involved with the student group OLAS (Organization of Latin American Students). One of the group’s recent activities was participating in a Leadership Conference.

“[We] were given the opportunity to join other colleges and universities around Georgia and receive leadership training through various workshops and activities. We stayed in cabins and really enjoyed the weekend. Food wasn't exactly gourmet, but we had fun. We put together a skit for the talent show the last night we were there and had so much fun with it.” Whitney exemplifies the dedication and involvement of students all across campus.

As to her most surprising experience at GGC so far she said, “My first semester here, I was in line at the GGCity Cafe and standing behind me was [President Kaufman]. Usually …you either read or hear about your college President but never see him/her walking around, let alone standing in line behind you, waiting like everyone else. That was pretty cool.”

When she is not in class, collecting stories for the newspaper, or attending a club meeting, Whitney can usually be found in the Academic Enhancement Center where she works part-time as a student aid. The AEC is a place where students can receive free tutoring in many of the classes at GGC.

Although some students may be wary of GGC because it is a new school, Whitney has her own take on it.

“Every school has its start. I'm sure when UGA or even Harvard opened, their student population was [not what] it is today. I just think people forget that. Even though we are a new school, we have achieved major accomplishments, from laying down the foundation for future students and faculty to build on, to getting General Patraeus to speak at our Spring 2009 Commencement.”