Chloe Weigle, a landscape architecture major from Alpharetta, serves because she believes serving others is essential to living in harmony with the people around you. “Every time I volunteer in the community, I can only hope that I am learning and understanding different perspectives of others and making even the smallest positive impact in someone else’s day,” she said.
As a Student Scholar, what have you learned about how and why the university engages in service:
It has been an amazing experience to learn about all the different ways UGA uses its resources to serve the state. Before I became a Student Scholar, I vaguely knew about programs such as Experience UGA, Campus Kitchen, Archway, and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, but the department of Public Service and Outreach was unknown to me. I am so glad that I have learned in depth about all of its branches, and put the pieces together as to what public service and outreach is all about.
Why do you serve:
I serve because serving others is essential to living in harmony with the people around you. Every time I volunteer in the community, I can only hope that I am learning and understanding different perspectives of others and making even the smallest positive impact in someone else’s day.
What made you want to get involved with service at UGA:
I started getting very involved with service organizations in high school, and I knew UGA would have a lot to offer from having 600+ organizations. Needless to say, there are way more opportunities available than I ever imagined and I wish I could have time for them all! It has been especially rewarding to find ways to serve that also align with my interests.
What service and leadership activities are you involved with at UGA:
Over my 4 years at UGA, I have been a student ambassador for the College of Environment and Design (CED), a senator for CED in Student Government Association, a member of University Council and have served at Campus Kitchen. I have also had the amazing experiences of traveling with the Catholic Center at UGA to various parts of the country and even Mexico for alternative spring breaks trips. I am currently the vice president of US Green Building Council Students at UGA, and enjoy serving at UGArden in my spare time.
How has service-learning helped you grow as a student or in your personal life?
Service-learning has helped me understand importance of community development. My career goal is to be a steward of the environment, but over time I realized that doing what is best for the people in a community is just as important to a healthy environment as the ecological aspects. Service-learning has especially inspired my passion for local food systems and more specifically, urban agriculture.
Why do you feel it is important for students to participate in public service and outreach? How does it benefit the community?
Service-learning is really what all of our education should lead to. There is so much good in using all of this newfound knowledge we are gaining to benefit others. Not only does it benefit a student’s perspective of real-world situations, but it benefits the people we are learning from.
What are your plans following graduation:
After I graduate, my only goals are to be enjoying what I do and continuing to learn. Whether that means serving in a volunteer position out of school, practicing as a landscape architect, or happening upon some unknown opportunity, I plan to keep absorbing new experiences that will shape my career path and future.
What are your interests and hobbies outside of school:
I love going to concerts, playing music, enjoying the outdoors, sports, photography, roller-skating, and watching a good film!
What is your favorite spot in Athens, at UGA or in Georgia? Why?
Wherever my family is at is my favorite spot! I could name off dozens of places that I love to visit and enjoy, but you cannot beat home.
What motivates you or inspires you in life?
My motivation comes from nature, my loved ones, the good works of people, and ultimately, my faith in God.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Two pieces of advice that I constantly remind myself of are these: you cannot spend your whole life worrying about the unknowns of the future and that every day should be celebrated.
