by Christopher Wheeler
When I was first asked by a former classmate of mine if I was interested in being a College of Social Sciences academic leader for summer orientation, I was a little hesitant to say yes. Not having much experience with what I thought the job would require and already having other commitments, I was unsure if I could do it. However, I took a chance, said yes, and attended the academic leader training session.
College of Social Sciences academic leaders pose with academic advisors Chelsea Duncan and Keri Allen and with Associate Dean Dr. Amber Smallwood after a summer orientation day concludes. Back row (L to R): Shawn Isaacs, Heath Hill, Christopher Wheeler, Tommie Simon. Front row (L to R): Meggie Miller, Dylan Pelletier, Amber Smallwood, Chelsea Duncan, Keri Allen, Autumn King
After meeting with Dr. Amber Smallwood, associate dean for the College of Social Sciences, and other academic leaders at the training session, I began to worry that I would not be able to do a good enough job. My primary responsibility was to be something of an ambassador for the Department of Political Science to incoming students. I had to explain to students what life is like being a political science major at the University of West Georgia and all the opportunities that were at their fingertips.
On my first day of summer orientation, I was extremely nervous. I had written a speech days before and was rehearsing it in my head, trying to make it seem natural when it came time for me to speak to my group. Once the College of Social Sciences students broke into groups by majors, I led the political science students to Pafford Hall to show them around. As we walked I prepared to give my speech about all the wonderful things in the political science department. Somehow the words in my mind never left and I stood rambling incoherently. Lucky for me one of the professors saw me and came by to speak with the students. I then led my group back to join the larger College of Social Sciences group.
Later that week I talk to Dr. Smallwood about my experience, and she calmly explained to me it was quite okay, and I was sure to be better next time. Like magic, I felt better about the whole experience and went in confidently to meet my next group of students. Ever since then, it has been smooth sailing.
I’m happy I chose to join the academic leader group this summer because I have worked with wonderful people and had a chance to help guide incoming first-year political science students. I learned some valuable lesson along the way, too. This is an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Thank you to Dr. Smallwood, the COSS Dean’s Office, the Department of Political Science, and the University of West Georgia for such a wonderful opportunity.
Christopher Wheeler is an MPA student in the Department of Political Science.
