My name is Spence Southard, I am a junior at the University of South Florida. I came to USF intending to be a business major, but chose instead to become a mass communications major and couldn’t be happier about my decision. I am focusing on advertising and am looking forward to starting my major classes this summer.
Moving to USF has been an amazing experience for me. I have gained many professional and personal skills that I believe are extremely valuable, all in only two short years. By far my greatest experience at this university has been my experience as an Orientation Team Leader for the summer of 2009.
When I had applied for the job as an OTL I was a very shy, quiet freshmen and by the end of the summer, I had matured into a student leader on campus. My experience with Orientation brought me out of my shell (so to speak) and really made me appreciate and enjoy my time here at the university. I got to meet, live and work along-side of 40 of the most amazing people I have ever met and I became the best of friends with every one of them.
My dive into the leadership position of an OTL greatly improved my own confidence and feeling of purpose here. Twice a week for the entire summer, I was a role model to 15 college freshmen that looked up to me for advice and leadership. This brought out qualities in me that I cherish to this day.
Getting involved in this way has greatly enriched my college experience and will for my remaining two years at USF. No summer will ever compare to my summer as an OTL.