Washington and Lee University
The Shepherd Program provides the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to community interactions. The Poverty 102 field work class and the Shepherd Alliance internship allow students to take the classroom knowledge and apply it to real life. Such opportunities expand students' understanding of the topics discussed in the classroom and further shape their understanding of poverty issues. In a very critical way, such experiences also provide students with experience working with people from a diverse set of backgrounds and personal histories in various settings. Such situations teach students invaluable life lessons about personal interactions, intelligently utilizing limited available resources, and adjusting to adverse situation. The Shepherd Program also challenges students to get involved in the local community. Washington and Lee is such a tight-knit community, and sometimes we forget what a huge impact our community can have beyond campus. Organizations such as Nabors Service League and Campus Kitchens connect the student body with the local community. Involvement in such student groups and in the Shepherd Poverty Program teaches W&L students how to be active, intelligent members of their community, a lesson that remains relevant long after graduation.
Capstone Paper Topic: The Over Representation of Disabilities in Disadvantaged Communities and the Corresponding Effects on Resilience
Community Service at W&L:
• Burish Service Leadership Intern
• Nabors Service League Chair
• Campus Kitchens Chair
• Volunteer at Maury River Middle School
Other W&L Activities:
• W&L riding team
• Rho Gamma
• Freshman Orientation Committee
• Tour Guide