CHASS Student of the Month – March 2010

Patricia Meardon

• Home Town: Cary, NC
• Class: Senior
• Major(s):
  • Social Work; Spanish
  • Minor in Nonprofit Studies
• Sample Courses:
  • Child Welfare
  • Culture & Civilization of Latin America
  • Nonprofit Leadership
• Activities:
  • Intern, Johnston County Department of Social Services, In-Home Services
  • Study Abroad in Lima, Peru, Summer 2008
  • Outreach Coordinator/AmeriCorps Member, NC Society of Hispanic Professionals, 2007-09
  • Students Advocating for Youth Program, 2006-08
  • Tutor/mentor local youth at Olds Elementary School, Kentwood Community Center, Raleigh Boys and Girls Club, and East Wake Middle School, 2006-09
• Honors:
  • University Scholars Program
  • Bess B. & Lynton Y. Ballentine Endowment winner, 2008-09
  • Epsilon Kappa Phi Alpha Honor Society
• Postgraduate Plans: Work part-time for a nonprofit organization while attending Graduate School at NC State University for Public Administration as a full-time student.
• Career Goals: Operate a nonprofit organization that supports the Hispanic population.

Why did you select CHASS?

Since high school, I desired to be an advocate for children. Selecting CHASS was an easy choice because I knew I would receive an education related to public service. Upon entering college, I found my place in the Social Work and Spanish Departments. CHASS provided me with the opportunity to gain work experience while receiving an unbelievable education.

What courses and advisors have had an impact on you?

I believe that I could not have achieved so many accomplishments without the encouragement and guidance from advisor and former instructor Susan Navey-Davis. Not only did she help me create a plan for my Spanish degree, but she supported me with my social work plan of work and nonprofit studies minor. Although my social work degree will provide me with the knowledge to begin in the public service field, my Spanish courses have forced me to further my education and become bilingual.

What has been your biggest challenge at NC State?

Most college students are transitioning from being a teenager to an adult. Maturity develops while one learns prioritization. Without a doubt, personal issues will conflict with school obligations. One should not be influenced by every piece of drama that occurs among friends and family, but rather should grow to know when personal issues take precedence over school work or vice versa.

What advice would you give incoming students?

I recommend students to take at least one service-learning class. These types of classes allow students to use their knowledge and expertise in volunteer placements. Therefore, students receive experience pertaining to their degree both in and out of the classroom.

Nominate a student for CHASS Student of the Month.