Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, with my parents and younger sister, I developed a deep appreciation for family values that continue to shape how I work and prioritize my time. My upbringing instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to those I care about. I draw inspiration from my mother, who had a successful career in marketing and sales. Her courage and fearlessness in pursuing her dreams motivate me to not only to stand by my ideas but also to bring them to life. 
I’ve learned that having a great idea is just the start—it’s all about taking action and executing it. Whether it’s brainstorming big concepts or figuring out the nitty-gritty details, I’m inspired to follow through and make things happen.  I want to harness these skills to engage audiences and foster relationships that create lasting impacts. As a dedicated student-athlete pursuing my B.S. in Marketing at Samford University, I am consistently seeking out opportunities to elevate the collegiate and athletic experience of those around me. 
The intersection of sports and marketing fascinates me, as it allows me to blend my love for competition with my desire to create impactful connections. My goal is to become a respected marketing professional in a dynamic and innovative organization, where I can leverage my keen attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and disciplined, ethical approach to foster positive change. Throughout my internship experiences, I've gained valuable hands-on knowledge that complements my academic background, allowing me to apply theoretical concepts in real-world situations. I firmly believe that every interaction matters, and I strive to create meaningful experiences that resonate with others. 
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My Transformative College Experience
Arkansas State University, August 2021 - May 2022
Emily smiling and walking on the tennis court. Arkansas State University Red Wolves logo in background
I began my collegiate tennis career on a full-ride athletic scholarship at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas. I excelled both on the tennis court and in the classroom, maintaining strong academic performance while competing in Division I athletics. As a freshman who played in a crucial position on the team, I was exposed early on to the challenges of leading a diverse team, which taught me the importance of adaptability and communication. 
My time there fostered resilience and perseverance, but I made the bold decision to transfer after one year to seek new challenges and opportunities that would further my growth and align with my ambitions.

                Mississippi State University, August 2022 - May 2023
At Mississippi State University, I competed in nearly every Southeastern Conference (SEC) conference match, balancing the demands of Division I athletics with a strong academic record. Off the court, I was an active member and representative in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and took the initiative to create a female-only Bible study called P.R.E.P., fostering a supportive community of faith for my peers.
Though my time at Mississippi State fulfilled my dream of competing in the SEC, unforeseen circumstances from the coaching staff led me to make the difficult decision to transfer. While this was a challenging period, I viewed it as an opportunity to trust in a greater plan for my life. As I navigated the transition, I realized that each step, even the unexpected ones, will lead me to where I am meant to thrive and flourish.
Emily posing in a service position wearing Mississippi State uniform
While playing at MSU, I had the privilege to be featured on the Christian Athlete Podcast to talk about the intersection of sports and faith. 
Samford University, August 2023 - Present
​​​​​​​Samford University quickly proved to be the perfect fit for me, not only athletically but also academically and spiritually. The university’s close-knit community, where both students and professors genuinely care about one another’s success, provided me a sense of belonging and purpose. 
I feel that this experience is shaping me into the kind of person who is not only prepared for a successful career but also equipped to make a meaningful impact wherever I am called to be. I am confident that my college journey has set the foundation for me to maximize my potential in the workforce and beyond.
As the only senior on the team, I embraced my leadership role and have come face to face with the daily responsibility of setting a positive example and supporting my teammates both on and off the court.
On top of taking an above-average course load of 18 credit hours, I have stepped into the role as President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) this year. 
Emily looking down and smiling on tennis court while bouncing a ball
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