Odalis Verett
Major: Animal Science, Pre-Vet
Where is your hometown?
Lubbock, Tx
What is a struggle you have experienced in college?
During college, I feel like one of my biggest struggles has been finding a routine to help with everything a college student experiences. Such as a study routine, a social routine, a work routine, a class routine, etc. It can be hard trying to adjust to something like this because it is a big change, but with help, I was able to get myself situated and flowing wonderfully through my college experience.
Why are you a BUFF Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU AmeriCorps?
I wanted to be a BUFF mentor because I like to meet new people and get a new college experience. I really enjoy being able to help others when needed because I have experienced struggles during college life. I find that having someone you can turn to and reach out to during a hard time is very beneficial when you’re new to an environment.
Top 5 Buff Strengths
Restorative - Developer - Discipline - Harmony - Consistency
Katerina Mendoza
Major: Engineering Technology MS (undergrad: Psychology, BS)
Where is your hometown?
Lubbock, Texas
What is a struggle that you have experienced in college?
When I was doing my first undergraduate degree, I realized my sophomore year that I didn't like my major, but my advisor told me I couldn't change it because I had to finish my degree plan in 4 years. So I half-heartedly finished my degree plan, but had a degree I didn't want to use. I know now that it is up to me to speak up for myself and get the most out of my university career in order to create the future I want.
Why are you a BUFF Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU AmeriCorps?
I think that there are a lot of expectations people have for university students but we all have times where we struggle academically and feel emotionally and physically tired, I know I do. I am a BUFF mentor so that I can be a supporter and a cheerleader for students who just need a little motivation and advice in order to reach their academic and life goals.
Top 5 Buff Strengths:
Harmony - Individualization - Relator - Responsibility - Deliberative
Brooke Osborne
Major: Music Therapy
Where is your hometown?
Loomis, California
What activities are you involved in?
Outside of being a student, I am also a Resident Assistant in Founders Hall, Vice President of WT’s Music Therapy Organization, and a member of Mu Phi Epsilon, a professional music fraternity in WT’s School of Music. When I go home for the summer months, I teach swim lessons at a local swim school. I thrive when I am constantly staying busy!
What is a struggle that you have experienced in college?
As a student from out of state, adjusting to living in the Panhandle of TX with its crazy weather was a bit of a struggle! Also finding time to prioritize my physical health besides walking to and from class every day!
Why are you a BUFF Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU AmeriCorps?
I became a Buff Mentor because I know the value that one person can have on another person’s life. I had a mentor as a freshman and it really made all the difference in my first-year college experience. I want to be able to make an impact in someone else’s life as well by supporting them through college and being that person they can talk to when no one else seems to listen. Support systems are everything!
Top 5 Buff Strengths:
Achiever - Developer - Relator - Discipline - Restorative
Elexis Sledge
Major: Sports and Exercise Science in Applied Sports
Where is your hometown?
Amarillo, Texas
What activities are you involved in?
President of RAM Buffs, Member of the Women's Bowling Team
What is a struggle that you have experienced in college?
One struggle that I have experienced would have to be making friends and trying to help people when they need it. I also have struggles with putting myself out there and being involved. I am a friendly person and that is why I am happy that I joined this program; I feel like it will be a good way to help me get out of my comfort zone.
Why are you a BUFF Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU AmeriCorps?
I chose to be a BUFF mentor because I love to be someone that people look up to. I have always had a passion for helping others and helping them find their way whenever they feel lost. When I was in high school I did a mentoring program like this and I knew it is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Top 5 Buff Strengths:
Includer - Learner - Communication - WOO -Positivity
Griselda Santiago
Major: Health Science with a Minor in Spanish
What activities or organizations are you involved in?
I am involved in the F1RSTGEN Student Organization at WTAMU.
What is a struggle you have experienced in college?
Some of the struggles that I have experienced in college is being able to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.
Why are you a Buff Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU?
I am a Buff Mentor with R2O HP WTAMU because I like to see students strive to be successful, especially first generation students.
Top 5 Buff Strengths:
Adaptability - Learner - Includer - Responsibility - Empathy
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