Taylor Stubblefield, a political science and Spanish major from Augusta, Ga., says that throughout her time as a Student Scholar, she has learned that the university has an active role in service. When asked why she serves, she says, “I think the question should be asked, ‘Why shouldn’t I serve?’ Service is a part of who I am. I am too blessed beyond measure to not serve.”
What made you want to get involved with service at UGA?
I intend to create a career with public service as its focus. With that said, it has always been important to me to get involved with service opportunities at UGA, not only for personal experience but also out of a community need. It is not a secret that the county in which The University of Georgia is located has a high poverty percentage rate. This was shocking news to me considering UGA is the state’s flagship school and has lucrative resources that in turn should be helping the community in which it is located.
What service and leadership activities are you involved with at UGA?
I just finished my term as Director of Fundraising for a student run nonprofit organization, Shop With a Bulldawg. SWAB is an organization that provides kids in Athens Clarke county from a lower socio-economic status one day of holiday shopping at Target. UGA students raise $100 for each mentee and that money is used to buy clothes, books, pencils, coats, and other items that these children are not able to get during the holidays!
How has service-learning helped you grow as a student or in your personal life?
Service-learning has taught me the value in receiving practical experience. It is important receive the foundation or curriculum of service and programs. However, what I like most about service-learning is that you gain a valuable hands-on experience that you can implement in your professional and personal life.
Why do you feel it is important for students to participate in public service and outreach? How does it benefit the community?
As a student, you sometimes get put into this bubble of just surrounding yourself with only other students, studying, attending football games, and hanging out. While student life is important, it is also important to try to leave your mark outside of the student realm. I think the best way to do that is to give back to the community which students are receiving their education.
What are your plans following graduation?
I intend to pursue a Masters Degree in Public Administration at American University in Washington, DC.
Please list any outside-UGA community service activities you are involved in.
I volunteer at Oasis Catolico Santa Rafaela once a week. I tutor Spanish speaking children ages 3-4 in various academic subjects.
What is your favorite spot in Athens, at UGA or in Georgia? Why?
I absolutely love the Jittery Joes on the second floor of MLC. I am most productive with a cup of Jittery Joe’s coffee by my side. It’s also a great study spot because it’s not too quiet or too loud.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Everything is not as bad as it seems.”- Dad
