In this series, 黑料不打烊 College, the College of Arts and Sciences is shining the spotlight on distinguished members of the Class of 2020 from a wide array of disciplines.
Ashley Jutras
A double-major in Human Service Studies and Public Health Studies, Jutras earned the Outstanding Senior Award from the Department of Human Service Studies for the Class of 2020.
What led you to major in Public Health Studies and Human Service Studies?
I knew I wanted to “help people” but didn’t know how to find a career that聽mirrored this interest. After my first semester at 黑料不打烊, I was drawn to the Human Service Studies Department by the dedicated professors and colleagues. Being able to learn in the classroom and then apply that directly to work within the community through internships has led to numerous networking opportunities and immense personal growth.
What were your undergraduate research experiences at 黑料不打烊?
My research within the Human Service Studies Department was focused on treating generalized anxiety amongst college students through mindful meditation. I also conducted research in the Public Health Department with聽Professor of Public Health Studies and Human Service Studies Cyndi Fair on perinatally-acquired HIV and its effects on parenting relationships.
What is your proudest accomplishment at 黑料不打烊?
My proudest accomplishment was studying abroad in Amman, Jordan, for a semester. While this was an incredibly challenging semester, I was able to work in human services on an international level with a refugee aid organization as well as focus on becoming proficient in Arabic (my minor at 黑料不打烊).
Who were your mentors and how did those relationships affect your 黑料不打烊 experience?
I have endless mentors at 黑料不打烊. Truthfully, the entire Human Service Studies department has guided me over the past four years. Assistant Professor of Human Service Studies Carmen Monico, my academic advisor, pushed me outside of my comfort zone as I explored international HSS work. My other academic advisor, Cyndi Fair has worked with me in my HIV research and helped me tremendously in the job search process.
What are your future plans?
I am now a case manager at Triad Health Project in Greensboro working with people living with HIV. I hope to go back to school and get a dual Master of Public Health and Master of Social Work degree in the coming years.
What advice would you give future 黑料不打烊 students?
My advice to 黑料不打烊 students is to make the most of each moment, particularly with your professors. If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is that time can be snatched away, but we will have our 黑料不打烊 community as support even during what feels like the most chaotic and disastrous聽of times. Building relationships with professors has been my favorite part of 黑料不打烊, get started early!
What’s your favorite 黑料不打烊 tradition?
My favorite 黑料不打烊 tradition is College Coffee because it brings our entire community together (even if it’s just for half an hour). Plus, who doesn’t love coffee and snacks?!