My name is Andrew Collier and I am a Turfgrass and Golf Course Management major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in the golf course industry by becoming a golf course superintendent. When I was a first-year student, my PEP leaders played a huge role in making sure I had a great first semester, and I would like to do the same for the incoming first-year students. The incoming students should know to relax even though there is a lot going on and listen to your leaders so you will have no problem getting your school work done while being involved on campus. Being able to manage time between studying and extracurricular activities makes me a successful student. What I love most about UT Martin is the small class size with friendly professors who are willing to help with any problems. Serving in a variety of organizations on campus such as a social fraternity, the Turf Club, FFA, and the Student Ambassador association has helped me become active on campus, meet new people, and maintain good grades. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Cadillac’s because it has the best cheeseburger, fries, and sweet tea for the low cost of $5.50.
Study tip: try different study methods

My name is Mary Bradley and I am a junior Ag Business major. Upon graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in law. The positive influence that my PEP leaders had on me is what served as my inspiration to become a PEP leader myself. A word of advice that I would like to offer the new first-year students is to be yourselves and never give up on your dreams! I am a successful student at UT Martin because I took the time to make the adjustment from high school to college by becoming involved in campus activities that help me be myself. My favorite aspect of UT Martin is the small class sizes and the one on one time with faculty. Being a member of the FFA student organization has helped me continue my passion for agriculture at the college level. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Pop’s Diner because it is cheap on a college student’s budget but still has tasty food.
Study tip: have a planner, plan out when to study

My name is Amber Futrell and I am a sophomore Animal Science major. Upon graduating in 2014, I will pursue a career as a veterinarian. My desire for the first-year students to have a great experience at UTM in any way that I can is what led me to become a PEP leader. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to soak up every drop of information given to you and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Being given the tools I need as a student by staff members that truly care has allowed me to succeed. While I would have been lost in the crowd at a larger university, I am able to make more personal relationships with professors at UTM, which is what I love most college life here. Other than being a PEP leader, I am also involved in a number of other organizations that include 4-H, Pre-Vet, SGA, HOSA, and GEARS. Being a member of these organizations has helped me meet new people and build up a group of friends that I can rely on for help when I need it or just to have fun. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because they are the best for their pollo mexicano!
Study tip: find a place that works for you away from distractions, study ahead of time before the test

My name is Valerie Winters and I am a Pre-Vet major. I will pursue a career in veterinary medicine upon graduating in the spring of 2012. Becoming a PEP leader was an easy choice for me because I have a positive impact on others as a successful student who loves helping and encouraging people. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to learn how to study and retain material so that you will be a successful college student. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I study hard, make good grades, balance my school and social lives, and get involved on campus and in the community. The professors at UTM are always willing to help in any way that they can, which is what I love most about going to school here.  I am a member of the Pre-Vet Club, and being a member of this club has helped me become acquainted with students who have similar interests while learning what it will take to continue my education and succeed in the field of veterinary medicine. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Parnell’s because of the great food, such as the spicy chicken sandwich, for reasonably low prices.
Study tip: make a weekly study schedule that allots study time for each of your classes and stick to the schedule

My name is David Ferrell and I am a Wildlife Biology major. My future plans include a career in natural resources management after graduating in the spring of 2014. I am a PEP leader because I love being a part of UT Martin and I understand how difficult it can be during your first semester of college. Some advice I would offer the new students would be to not feel nervous and manage your time wisely. Effective time management and keeping close contact with my professors helps me succeed as a student. The atmosphere and caring professors are what I love most about UTM. Taking part in the Wildlife Society has helped me meet plenty of professionals in my major. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Chic-fil-a because the milkshakes are great!
Study tip: get involved in group studies and make note cards

My name is Taylor Hannah and I am a Wildlife Biology major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in wildlife biology with hopes of specializing in raptors. I am a PEP leader because I try to do my best every day and I absolutely love to help others through this experience. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take this experience seriously but also have fun while being put on the right path from the very beginning. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I strive every day to reach the goals I set for myself upon entering college and I never forget why I am here. What I love most about UT Martin are the abundance of opportunities offered in every field and the personal atmosphere on campus. Being a member of the Wildlife Society at UTM has helped me become more involved in the wildlife field by giving me multiple volunteer experiences as well as learning and leadership opportunities. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because the service is great and the atmosphere is rewarding after a long day of studying or tests.
Study tip: start early, look over material every day

My name is Tanner Romsdal and I am a Wildlife Biology major. I will pursue a career in the same field after graduating in the spring of 2014. Based on my experience making the transition from high school to college and my hopes for the incoming first-year students to be successful at UTM, I believe I can be a valuable friend and resource as a PEP leader. A word of advice I would like to offer the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to try to exhibit responsibility and maturity when taking advantage of your collegiate opportunity. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I manage my time, study, and get involved on campus in anything that I can. The small size of the classes, which allow me to interact personally with my professors, is what I love most about UT Martin. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also in the Wildlife Society, which will be my key to success in a wildlife career by giving me numerous opportunities to gain experience in the field of wildlife. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Snappy’s Pizza because it has great pizza and excellent service.

My name is Amber Womble and I am a junior Companion Animal Science major. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2012 before pursuing a career as a veterinary technologist. I am a PEP leader because I feel that I can help first-year students feel at home here and adjust to the college life due to my experience at UTM. The best way to start college on the right foot is to get involved, study, and avoid skipping classes. Success comes to me as a student because I have learned to use my time wisely as a student by studying while also being involved on campus. I love that UT Martin has a small campus because it makes me feel right at home having come from a small town. Participating in the college ministry of Central Baptist Church has helped me to meet other people with similar interests as mine while participating in weekly Bible studies. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because they have great food at a great price!
Study tip: go to a quiet place free of distractions, avoid groups if you tend to talk

My name is Noelle Henry and I am an Animal Science: Science Option major. My plans are to pursue a career in large animal medicine or environmental work after graduating in the spring of 2013. I am a PEP leader because I am the model UTM student that can lead, guide and direct the first-year students into a successful first year. My belief is that the FYI participants should not expect to know everyone on campus and fight the fear of being a little fish in a big pond. I am a successful student at UT Martin  because of my ability to maintain a good GPA while being involved in various extracurricular activities and attending class regularly. What I love most about UT Martin is the small town atmosphere and the great agriculture facilities that give me the ability to learn successfully. In addition to PEP leading, I am also a member of a social sorority as well as the Student Cattleman’s Association. Being a member of these organizations has allowed me to meet people in the same field of interest, to improve my leadership skills, and to gain more one-on-one practice with large animals. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the Hearth because of their home-cooked style meals, including their hot cornbread and rolls smothered in strawberry butter.
Study tip: find your favorite place in the library and do not be afraid to study a lot

My name is Andy Zarecor and I am an Ag-Business and Marketing major. After graduating in the fall of 2012, I plan to pursue a career in agriculture. My hope for the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take advantage of every opportunity they get before someone else does. My work ethic and drive combined with the help of several great professors is what helps me succeed as a student at UTM.  The many different opportunities to get involved with other students socially and professionally are what I love most about UT Martin. Being involved with a social fraternity on campus has helped me develop leadership skills and get involved in many different things that I wouldn’t otherwise have done.
Study tip: utilize the resources you can find in addition to notes and study guides

My name is BJ Avent and I am a junior Agriculture and Education major. I will pursue a career in public school education after graduating in the spring of 2012. PEP leading is for me because I have always felt a need to help people and I saw how my PEP leader made a difference in my first year. The FYI participants should not be afraid to ask questions and should listen closely to what their PEP leaders say because we have been trained very well for this event! Being able to cope with difficult situations, manage my time, and learn how to prioritize has brought me success as a student. The fact that UTM is not too small nor too big is what I love most about the school because I always feel as though I am at home and I always feel safe on or off campus. I participate in several organizations apart from PEP leading, including FFA, STEA, Kappa Delta Pi, and a social sorority. Such a high level of participation has helped me through networking and has helped me develop better leadership skills. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because the food is cheap and it is always a fast dinner if you are short on time!
Study tip: make note cards, rewrite notes, and do not procrastinate.

My name is Whitney Crow and I am a junior Crop and Soil Management major. I intend to graduate in the spring of 2013 with aspirations for a career in science with a focus in plant pathology and entomology. I enlisted as a PEP leader because I want to help you be successful by being a person of guidance for you. I want to do what I can to help make the college transition earlier and easier. The best way that I can describe the First Year Initiative is to say that it is a useful tool to help you get to know your advisor, classmates, and PEP leaders that will all help you throughout your college career.  I am a successful student at UTM because of my involvement on campus and in my department. I can also attribute my success to being involved with people that have similar interests and degree choices.  The small-town atmosphere combined with the open door policy held by most professors makes my career at UT Martin a lovable experience. I know that any professor on campus will do what they can to help if you simply go to their office and ask. As a member of a social sorority I have been able to meet girls who share similar interests, which allows me to make friends, network, and build my leadership and communication skills. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because it is good and cheap.

My name is Elizabeth Graef and I am an Agriculture Education major. Upon graduating in the spring of 2013 I will pursue a career in agriculture education. Being an education major has inspired me to be a PEP leader because of my strong passion for helping young adults with career and college choices.  Incoming first-year students should make it a point to get involved on campus. Whether you join a Greek organization, the Student Government, or organizations that relate to your major, getting involved will make your college experience exponentially better. The great faculty and staff have been the key to my success at UT Martin because they truly care and are always there to help. What I love most about UTM is the class sizes. With the ratio of students to teachers being so small, I know that I can always get advice or help whenever I need it. My membership in a social sorority on campus has helped me to break out of my shell, meet many new people, have the opportunity to hold positions of high standing, and learn things that will aid me in my future endeavors. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have plenty of room for large groups of people and have awesome, cheap food!
Study tip: Do not cram. Study in thirty minute intervals to help retention. Start studying a week early.

My name is Bailee Robertson and I am a sophomore Nursing major. After graduating in the spring of 2013, I intend to pursue a career in nursing. PEP leading suits me because I love nothing more than helping others. The best thing for the new first-year students to do, in my opinion, is to get involved as much as possible and learn how to manage time early in your career. My success as a student comes from hard work and giving my all when faced with challenges in order to overcome them. What I love most about UT Martin are the small classes because they allow me to have better student teacher relationships and not just be a strange face to teachers. In addition to PEP leading, I also serve as a little sister to a social fraternity, which helps me meet great people and keeps me involved in Greek life.
Study tip: Put aside a certain amount of time every day to study.

My name is Madaline “Maddy” Harris and I am a Nursing major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in nursing. I serve as a PEP leader because I want to help the beginning nursing students succeed. The best thing for the incoming first-year students to do is simply make friends and help each other! I am a successful student at UT Martin because I have good relationships with professors and classmates who are always available to help if I need it. The bond created between the students and professors because of the small class sizes is what I love most about going to school at UTM. Playing in the UTM Clarinet Choir has helped to ease the stress of life in nursing school by allowing me to forget my studies for a while and enjoy music. My favorite place to eat in Martin is McDonalds because I can eat a whole meal for $2.20.
Study tip: use time management, spread your workload out over multiple days

My name is Sarah James and I am a sophomore Nursing major. Upon my graduation in 2012, I hope to pursue a career in the medical field. I am a PEP leader because I want future students to succeed by learning how to handle a social life while also being a successful college student. My advice to the FYI participants is to be accepting of your peers and be open to sharing your similar thoughts and experiences with each other. I am successful at UT Martin because I learned early on how to maintain a social life full of friendships while also focusing on my studies and the tasks assigned to me. What I love most about UTM is the safe, friendly, small school environment where it is always possible to run into the people that you have met. The student organizations that I am a member of on campus include the Nursing Association, the Nursing Christian Fellowship, and the BCM. Being a member of these organizations has helped me become a young leader and gain fundraising and community service experience. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because I am part Mexican and I absolutely love Mexican food!
Study tip: don’t procrastinate because you will be challenged and the material is hard to grasp

My name is Lauren Witherspoon and I am a Nursing major. I will pursue a career in nursing after graduating in 2013. I am a PEP leader because I want to help the first year students coming to UTM and help them establish themselves as a college student. Getting involved as a first-year student and staying involved will make your college experience what you want it to be. Taking time to study and making note cards for all my tests and quizzes has helped me become a successful student. What I love most about UT Martin is the fact that the classes are small enough that you are able to establish a relationship with each professor. Being a member of a social sorority has helped me learn responsibility and how to be dependable. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has a great atmosphere for college students and the food is great at an affordable price.
Study tip: make note cards, don’t wait until the last moment to study

My name is Kristin Lankford and I am a sophomore Nursing major. My future plans include a career in the same field after graduation.  The inspiring job that my PEP leader did by being the complete definition of a PEP leader led me to become one myself in hopes of being able to enlighten young students’ lives. My advice to the students participating in the First Year Initiative would be to attend all of your scheduled classes and to take advantage of the library! I am successful at UTM because I strive to obtain my goals and enjoy my classes, friends, professors, and major. The quaintness of Martin and its caring attitude has brought me to love the town. Being a member of Leaders In Residence has assisted me in “Modeling the Way” and “Inspiring My Shared Vision” with my peers so that I am able to exert my ideas and opinions in an effective and professional manner. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has a great atmosphere, friendly service, and great food!
Study tip: have a complete set of notes to study from, rewrite notes

My name is Kasyn and I am a sophomore Nursing major. I will pursue a career as a nurse after graduating in 2013. Having experienced the struggle of learning how to live on your own while motivating yourself to put your studies first in the absence of an authority figure, I want to be a role model so the incoming students can see that being successful is possible.  My advice to the FYI participants is to use the first few days at college to learn what is the best way for the new students to get acquainted with the environment. Being a motivated student who works hard to learn the material covered in class and not being afraid to ask teachers for help when I need it has turned me into a successful student. The great and  challenging Nursing program at UT Martin, including the professors that are extremely helpful and knowledgeable in their fields, is what I love most about the college. My participation in a social sorority has helped me learn to be a leader and how to work within a group of people. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is a place where my friends and I can go to get good food and hang out.
Study tip: don’t be intimidated by older students or professors

My name is Whitney Wheat and I am a sophomore Nursing major. My career plans include being an RN at a doctor’s office or hospital after graduating in the spring of 2013. I am a PEP leader because I love meeting new people and I want to share information with incoming students that will make their UTM experience absolutely amazing. My suggestion to the FYI participants would be to get to know the people in your group  because you will be interacting with them over the next four years or so since they have the same major. Working hard to maintain a balance between studying to make good grades in nursing, being involved in campus activities, and making time for a social life has made me a successful student. What I love most about UT Martin is how much it feels like home because everyone is very friendly and there is plenty of student-teacher interaction. Being a little sister to a social fraternity has helped me meet new people also be involved with the Greek organizations here at Martin. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because I love their great service and reasonably priced Mexican food!
Study tip: take time to go to the library, time away from other distractions to focus on grades

My name is Rashunn Cheney and I am a senior Accounting and Finance major. My future plans include a career in accounting. There is no better feeling in the world than to know that you helped someone achieve their dreams and goals, which is why I am a PEP leader. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take their first semester very seriously because the upper division classes will be tougher. Working very hard on my academics by taking advantage of the help that the school provides outside of the classroom in addition to associating myself with other students who have the same ambitions as me has helped me be successful at UT Martin. What I love most about UTM is the small class sizes because I have the chance to interact with my teachers and fellow students. Being a member of a social fraternity has helped me gain friendships, brotherhood, and leadership opportunities that have helped me accomplish goals I only dreamed of doing. My favorite place to spend time in Martin is the Rec Center because I enjoy working out and playing basketball with my friends.
Study tip: study somewhere nice and quiet, use the study rooms in the library

My name is Megan Lindsey and I am an Accounting major. I will pursue a career in accounting after graduating in the spring of 2014. I am a PEP leader mainly because I think I can be a big help to incoming first-year students in every aspect. My advice to the new students is to stay on task with you schoolwork and get to know your teachers because they will help you if you need it. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I study and stay on top of my assignments. What I love most about UT Martin are all the things that you can get involved with. Being a member of a social sorority on campus has helped me make friends and learn how to get involved. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because I love Mexican food and theirs is the best.
Study tip: don’t cram the night before the test, study the material after each class session

My name is Brittany Williams and I am a junior Finance major and Accounting minor. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in investing or banking. Being a PEP leader is great because I love to help others make a great and successful transition from high school to college and beyond. I hope that the First Year Initiative students are not afraid to ask their PEP leaders questions regarding things they are unsure about because we are there to help. My success as a student comes from the knowledge that school work and studying are most often more important than hanging out with friends. The small class sizes at UT Martin allow for personal relationships and one-on-one help between professors and students, which is what I love most about UT Martin. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have the best Mexican food in town.

My name is Bosede Afolami and I am an Accounting and Finance double major. I plan to pursue a career in financial advertising after graduating in the spring of 2014. My leadership qualities and skills are what led me to become a PEP leader. My advice to the students participating in the First Year Initiative is simple: college is going to be the best years of your life, so just have fun, be safe, learn, grow and enjoy the experience. My success as a student comes from making education my number one priority and insisting on using any legally and morally acceptable means necessary to make sure that I succeed. The fact about UT Martin that I love the most is that it is among the safest campuses in Tennessee. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of the Student Government Association. Participating in the SGA has helped me to better understand the UTM campus and serve the student body while improving my leadership skills. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Huddle House because it is an amazing place to have fun with friends and family while eating great food.

My name is Donielle Hubbard and I am an Economics/Finance major. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2013 and begin the pursuit of a career in corporate law. My goal as a PEP leader is to provide incoming first-year students with the same guidance and help that I was given by my PEP leaders my first semester. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to absorb all the information that they will receive during the program because eventually they will need to use that information they were given. I am successful at UT Martin because I work hard inside and outside of the classroom by doing my homework in a timely manner in order to have an equally balanced social life with various student organizations and friends. What I love most about UTM is the fact that I can go to a professor any time that would be more than willing to help. By joining the Financial Management Association I have been able to meet new people that are majoring in the same field as me and also learn more about job opportunities in the financial field. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Dragon Buffet because I can get a lot of food for a cheap amount when I am on a budget and because they have some really good beef fried rice!

My name is Laquita Johnson and I am a sophomore Marketing major and Communications minor. My future aspirations include a career in business management. I am a PEP leader because I am dedicated, motivated, and I am always ready to work hard toward a positive cause. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to ask as many questions as possible and take advantage of the opportunity. By participating in campus activities, leadership programs, and supporting many organizations on campus, I have created the world I wanted and become a successful student. What I love most about UT Martin is the diverse atmosphere. Being a member of a social sorority and participating in the Black Student Association has helped me learn time management and how to accommodate various personalities. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Pizza Hut.

My name is Kinsley Toone and I am an Accounting and Marketing major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in accounting after taking the CPA exam. I am a PEP leader because UTM holds a special place in my heart and I want to aid incoming first-year students in their transition from high school to college life just as my PEP leaders helped me. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take the wonderful and fulfilling program as a time to adjust to college life and learn what UTM has to offer. My success as a student comes from efficient time management, wonderful peer relationships, and small class sizes that allow one-on-one time with professors. The overall atmosphere of the quaint, charming UTM campus is what I love most about the school. I am a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society of Accredited Business Program, and being in this organization has helped me to understand the importance of remaining focused on my college ambitions, grades, involvement on campus, and plans for the future. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Parnell’s Grill because they offer great food such as hamburgers, steaks, wings and more at decently low prices.
Study tip: manage your time well

My name is Kiara Champion and I am an Office Information Systems and Accounting major. I will pursue a career in public utilities after graduating in the fall of 2012. Because my PEP leaders helped me to the best of their ability, I want to do the same for the incoming first-year students by sharing the knowledge I have gained from being a student. My advice to the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to enjoy yourself and absorb as much information as possible from the speakers, faculty members, and PEP leaders during the program so you can be successful in your first year. Learning as much as possible about the university and all that it has to offer by never hesitating to ask professors and staff members questions has made me able to succeed as a student. The aspects of UT Martin that I love most are the friendly students and staff and how easy it is to get involved due to the variety and number of organizations on campus that are sure to contain a group of people with similar interests. Aside from PEP leading, I am also a member of Rotaract, which has helped me meet various new people, give back to the city of Martin through community service, help the campus raise money for different charities through various fundraisers, and gain priceless knowledge about leadership.  My favorite place to eat in Martin is Dragon Buffet because they have all-you-can-eat Chinese food and you only have to spend round five dollars, which makes it the best place for college students on a budget.
Study tip: find a study technique that works for you, whether in a group or quiet place, get plenty of rest, review material before test

My name is Alan Dupree and I am a Management Information Systems major. I plan to pursue a degree in the same field after graduating in the spring of 2013. My reasons for being a PEP leader include wanting to help the students succeed, wanting them to feel welcome, and wanting to demonstrate to them how much UT Martin cares about delivering a very high quality education to their students. The tips and tricks given to you as an FYI participant will prove to be very worth of your attention in the long run as a college student. Being very dedicated to achieving the goals that I have set for myself and never giving up has helped me to succeed as a student.  The small class sizes and the personal relationships with the professors make UTM a loveable school. Being a member of a social fraternity has helped me become a better overall person through learning to communicate and gaining leadership experience that will also lead me to many career opportunities for life after UT Martin. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Brandy’s Restaurant because they have a really nice dining area, great food choices, and really good service.
Study tip: don’t procrastinate, dedicate time everyday to studying

My name is Amy Roberts and I am a sophomore. I plan to seek a career in Non-Profit Marketing after my graduation in the fall of 2012. Being a PEP leader is for me because I know that I can help the incoming first-year students get adjusted to college, whether they are adjusting socially, academically, or just need a dependable and outgoing friend. Being a successful UT Martin student is as simple for me as striving to do so. The ability to walk across campus and see at least one familiar face that I met through an organization I belong to is what I love most about UTM. During my time spent as a member of a social sorority here on campus, I have learned to recognize the need for and how to create good time management skills. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Brandy’s because I work there and the food and atmosphere are awesome!
Study tip: read your textbooks, highlight what is important

My name is Adrian Wilson and I am a Marketing major. After I graduate in the fall of 2011, I hope to begin a career in either sales, advertising, or business. I enjoy being a PEP leader because it allows me to mentor young students. I think it is important for the incoming first-year students to have somebody they can turn to when they are worried, frustrated, or nervous about their first semester of school. In my opinion, getting involved as much as possible early in your college career will help you enjoy your time at UT Martin. I am a successful student because I am goal-oriented, hard-working, and a good listener. It is important for me to remember that being successful is not necessarily about having the best grades but about receiving the most out of what you learn in college. The best thing about UT Martin is the great education a student can receive thanks to the professors and staff on campus. Serving in a social sorority on campus has enabled me to become a well-rounded person through work experience with other women my age on campus and statewide. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because there is room to socialize with the group of people that I am with while enjoying great food.
Study tip: Make note cards and begin studying at least a week in advance.

My name is Calista Vaughn and I am a Political Science major. I intend to graduate in the spring of 2012, after which I will pursue a career in state politics. Because UTM has given so much to me throughout my career, I chose to serve as a PEP leader as my way to give back to the school. The best advice I can give to the incoming students is to establish a happy median between time dedicated to school work and social events early on in their careers. I can attribute my success as a UT Martin student to never letting anything get in the way of my academic responsibilities. I have always kept up with my grades, communicated with my professors, and been a committed, engaged student. The list of things I love about UT Martin is a lengthy one that includes the small class sizes, the safe atmosphere, the accessible professors, the student-friendly resources, and all of the opportunities outside of the classroom. Serving in a social sorority on campus has helped me get to know people I would have otherwise never known and grow closer to them over the years. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Taco Bell because that is my favorite restaurant.
Study tip: talk to your professors and ask for help if you don’t understand something

My name is Lauren Conley and I am an Elementary Education major. I plan to pursue a career in teaching Kindergarten after graduating in the spring of 2014. The great experience I had with FYI made me want to become a PEP leader myself and share the opportunity with others. Hopefully the new students will take advantage of First Year Initiative by getting to know your professors and fellow students. My being successful as a student can be attributed to managing my time while staying involved. What I love most about UT Martin is the camaraderie among the students and professors. Serving in a social sorority has helped me to get involved and make friends and has made my college experience as good as it has been so far by never allowing a dull moment. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Asian Grill because I love sushi and theirs is the best in town!
Study tip: Don’t procrastinate, get your stuff done during the day

My name is Abbie Fuqua and I am a junior Education (K-6) major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career as an educator.  Being able to encourage students and to let them know about all the wonderful opportunities that UTM has to offer is what drove me to become a PEP leader. My advice to the FYI participants is to get to know your PEP leader and get involved on campus! I have been successful as a student because I have been involved on campus, studied hard, and built lasting relationships. What I love most about UT Martin is the small class sizes.  Being a member of Kappa Delta Pi on campus has helped me gain leadership experience and learn many great things that will help me be a successful teacher in the future. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have the best Mexican food in town!
Study tip: study in small bits each night rather than cramming

My name is Lacie Kelley and I am a K-6 Education major. After I graduate in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in education. I am a PEP leader because I love helping the first-year students by giving them advice about different activities on campus. Because I feel that I am very knowledgeable about my major, I believe I can help many incoming Education majors get off on the right foot. My advice to incoming first-year students is to avoid trying to do too much at once by purchasing an agenda that will help them keep up with what is going on. My organizational skills bring me success at UT Martin. By maintaining a certain study and homework schedule, I can stay on task, turn work in punctually, and make good grades. I love UTM because it is so close to home. If I am ever feeling overwhelmed and miss my own bed, I can just make the short trip home! Apart from PEP leading, I am also a member of STEA and a social sorority. STEA has helped me learn more about the teaching world and what it is going to be like when I become one. My sorority has really helped me emerge as a leader by taking many different offices. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Huddle House because of its around-the-clock hours and its delicious food variety.
Study tip: Be organized, have a planned time everyday when to study.

My name is Taylor Brannon and I am a Special Education major. I plan to seek a career in teaching after graduating in the spring of 2012. I am a PEP leader because I am organized, love helping others, and most importantly, I want the first-year students to enjoy UT Martin as much as I have. Going to class and making it a point to let your teacher know that you are interested in the class and in doing well is the best advice I can give to the incoming students. Starting school as a driven first generation college student with high goals, I have strived tremendously for and have achieved success. The wonderful relationships I have developed with the Special Education instructors because of the small classes are what I love most about UT Martin. Apart from PEP leading, I also participate on campus by being a member of a social sorority and the Council for Exceptional Children. Doing these things has helped me be a better leader, be more involved, and strive to be an excellent person. My favorite place to eat in La Cabaña because I love the food!
Study tip: do not cram for tests, make note cards, study for an hour every day for a week until the test

My name is Brooke Gillespie and I am a Secondary Education major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in education. Serving as a PEP leader allows me to be a role model to incoming first-year students and help others when they need it. Getting to know your fellow classmates can provide an excellent support group for you as a first-year student. Building a wonderful support group while balancing my time between studying and student organizations is what has made me a successful student at UT Martin. The aspects I love most about UTM are the small class sizes and the fact that the professors want you to succeed and do well. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of STEA. Being a member of this organization has helped me become a better education major and has allowed me to gain more confidence in myself.
Study tip: take breaks when studying to avoid getting burned out

My name is Katherine “Kat” McKeel and I am a 4-8 education major. Upon graduating in the fall of 2012, I will pursue a career in teaching middle school. Because my PEP leaders helped me to fight feeling scared and nervous my first week as a student, I became a PEP leader to do the same for other first-year students. The best thing for the students participating in the First Year Initiative to do is to ask their PEP leaders and faculty mentors plenty of questions. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I go to class on time, study, spend time with family and friends, attend church, and plan for downtime. The fact that the professors actually want to teach in small classes where students can ask questions is what I love most about UTM. Being a member of STEA has helped me stay informed about my future career. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Wendy’s because it is in walking distance, low prices, and awesome new fries.
Study tip: rewrite your notes

My name is Whitney Mount and I am a sophomore Pre-K through 3rd Grade Education major. I will graduate in the spring of 2013 before going on to pursue a career in teaching. I love being a PEP leader because I enjoy teaching people new things and giving advice. While participating in the First Year Initiative, I believe the students should try to get everything out of the experience by not being afraid to ask questions or take a chance to get to know the other students in their group. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I work very hard to get where I want to be by studying and getting involved in campus organizations. In fact, the abundance of opportunities for students to get involved on campus is one of the things I love most about UTM. Apart from PEP leading, I am also a member of a social sorority. Being a member of this organization has helped me meet new people and participate in volunteer activities on campus and in the community. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has the best Mexican food and several of my friends are there at any given time.
Study tip: ask professors questions, send emails, use a planner

My name is Shelby Totty and I am a K-6 education major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in teaching. I am a PEP leader because I care about the success of the incoming students and I want them to have someone who cares and can point them in the right direction. I would like to advise the new FYI participants to take in as much information as possible from their mentors, PEP leaders, and other faculty who are trying to help you be successful. Getting my assignments done on time and making diligent study my first priority has made me a successful student at UT Martin. The beautiful scenery, caring faculty, potential for friendships, and the variety of organizations on campus are all aspects of UT Martin that I love. Being a member of a student organization has helped me become closer to the professors in the education department and less intimidated by them because I know that they care. My favorite places to eat in Martin are La Cabaña for their awesome Mexican food and student friendly atmosphere, and Asian Grill because it is the best place to get Japanese food and amazing sushi rolls around here!

My name is Rachel Hall and I am a Human Health and Performance/Exercise Science and Wellness major. I will graduate in the spring of 2013 before pursuing a career in physical therapy. Having a positive influence on the incoming first-year students and inspiring them to be the best they can at college is what drives me to be a PEP leader. Going into everything with a great attitude will determine what you get out of your FYI experience as a participant. Rarely missing class, studying hard, and learning to prioritize and organize makes me a successful student.  The student-to-teacher ratio and the small size compared to other schools are what I love most about UT Martin.  Being a member of Mu Epsilon Delta (MED) on campus has helped me by bringing in friendly and helpful speakers from different fields of medicine to provide information on how to be successful. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have great prices and I love Mexican food!

My name is Katie Mangrum and I am a Sports Management major. I will graduate in the Spring of 2013 before pursuing a career in sports business. My desire to share advice and experiences about adjusting to college life is what inspired me to become a PEP leader. My advice to incoming first-year students is to become involved on campus because there are so many opportunities for students to meet new people and find their niche.  I am a successful student at UT Martin because I strive to work hard to achieve my personal best in all my assignments and projects while knowing how to balance my time between schoolwork and fun. The small campus vibe and the smaller student-to-teacher ratio aspect of college life at UTM are what I love most about the school.  Other than being a PEP leader, I also participate in the University Scholars Organization. Being a part of this organization has helped me make great friends at college who have pushed me to do my best while becoming a more well-rounded individual and doing community service. My favorite place to eat in the UT Martin area is Wimpy’s Restaurant of Greenfield because their hamburgers are the best!
Study tip: go to class, it looks good to your professors and they will be more willing to help

My name is Lacy Ward and I am a Health and Human Performance major. I hope to seek a career in physical therapy upon graduating in the fall of 2012. Being a successful, enjoyable student who loves this campus and wants others to enjoy it just as much makes me a good PEP leader.  As a first-year student, I believe you should try to learn as much as you can about UTM and the campus without being afraid to put your name out there. I am able to succeed as a UT Martin student because I study, work hard, and get involved both in my classes and on campus. The laid back learning environment of the small classes is what I love most about this school. Being a member of the S.H.A.P.E. Club has helped me meet more students in my major and has given me volunteer opportunities that I never would have gotten by myself. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Asian Grill because it is new and has good sushi!

My name is Jennie McFerren and I am a junior Psychology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career as a Child Psychologist. Being a PEP leader has really enabled me to help my fellow peers by being of assistance just as my PEP leaders were to me. My main goal as a PEP leader is to make a difference and help any first-year students that may need my help. I remember what it was like to feel lost, alone, and a bit nervous coming to a college that I had never been to before, so I hope I can help make the transition for new students a smooth and easy one. As participants in the First Year Initiative, I would advise students to have an open mind and be ready to experience challenges that will help make them stronger and a better person. I am able to enjoy success at UT Martin because I am not afraid to ask for help when I need it, and also because I take the initiative to do what has to be done rather than procrastinating. The small size of the classes and campus, which allows you to meet the students and teachers in order build long-lasting relationships, is a characteristic I love about UTM. An organization that I belong to on campus is the Rotaract Club, which has helped me realize that we as people are not all alike and has opened my eyes to the needs of other countries and people around the world. My favorite place to eat in Martin is McDonalds because I love their fries, cheeseburgers, and chicken nuggets, as well as the low prices and close proximity to the campus.

My name is Kelsey Potts and I am a Psychology major. I will pursue a career in missions after graduating in the spring of 2012. My desire for the incoming first-year students to become as comfortable and familiar with the campus as I am while knowing that nothing can stop them from achieving their goals led me to become a PEP leader. The students participating in the First Year Initiative should not be afraid to ask for help from your PEP leaders, professors, campus leaders, and other staff or use the many resources on campus that can assist you in succeeding at college. The determination I feel to be the best student I can be through hard work, staying focused, and studying ahead of time has turned me into a successful UTM student. What I love most about UT Martin is the friendly atmosphere where I can see students and professors who know me by name every day. I am a member of the Baptist Collegiate Ministry, and being a member of this organization has helped me learn to trust others and share tasks with others who want to help so that my load will be lighter. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Snappy Tomato’s Pizza because I love their pizza and they have a reasonably low priced buffet with endless pizza, salad, pasta and desert for everyone to enjoy.

My name is Carol Anne Smith and I am a Psychology major. I hope to pursue a career in Speech Pathology after graduating in the spring of 2013. PEP leading was an attractive opportunity to me because PEP leaders are the first upperclassmen that the incoming students meet and I want to help UT Martin make a great impression on the new first-year students. Making sure that you attend class and getting to know the campus and community are vital for new students on campus. I am successful as a student because I put my education before other things, including partying, and I have my priorities in order. Being from a small town like Martin allows me to feel more at home at UTM, which is what I love most about going to school here. Being a member of Leaders In Residence as helped me make great connections and receive great opportunities, such as becoming a PEP leader. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the Ming Bowl in the University Center because I love their General Tzo’s chicken and rice.
Study tip: use flashcards to quiz yourself

My name is Taneshia Davis and I am a junior Criminal Justice major. I will pursue a career in law as a defense attorney upon graduating in the fall of 2012. Showing the new students what college life is like and being there for them are my main goals as a PEP leader. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to be open to new things and meeting new people. Believing in myself and never giving up on reaching my goals are aspects that allow me to succeed at UT Martin. The community service and campus activities that I participate in as a member of the Criminal Justice Society and the Sociology Club have helped me to become a better student and person.  My favorite place to eat in Martin is Dragon Buffet because I always have a great time with my friends there while enjoying a variety of food.
Study tip: figure out what study technique works for you, everybody is different

My name is Elyse Murrell and I am a sophomore Social Work major. I intend to graduate in the fall of 2012 with aspirations for a career in clinical social work. I chose my major because I want to help people, and being a PEP leader is another way I can help people, specifically the incoming first-year students trying to make a stressful adjustment. Taking advantage of the opportunities, assistance, and advice given to you as a first-year student is the best thing an incoming student can to do to succeed. Staying organized by using a planner and managing my time between studying and participating in various campus organizations has set me on the path to success as a UT Martin student. What I love most about UT Martin is the social work program for its faculty and courses. I am involved in several organizations on campus, one of which is University Scholars. Being a member of this organization has helped me maintain focus on the one truly important reason I am here—to get an education. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Canasta because they serve virtually the same food for lower prices in a less crowded location.
Study tip: make time for studying and spread out your study load, start a week in advance.

My name is Jessica Becker and I am a senior Organismal Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career as a pediatric physician’s assistant. I am a PEP leader because I love to interact with new people and I want my experience at UT Martin to influence others in the same way it has influenced me.  I would recommend the FYI participants to pay attention and listen to the speakers at the different sessions because their advice is very beneficial. Knowing how to manage my school and leisure time has helped me be a successful student. The small class sizes, one-on-one attention from professors, and the welcoming environment of Martin are all reasons why I love UTM. Joining Mu Epsilon Delta has helped me explore my career options by learning more about different health professions. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because I like the food and the environment.
Study tip: stay focused on the task at hand and be willing to put work in for each subject.

My name is Lauren Robertson and I am a junior Biology major. After graduating in 2012, I intend to pursue a career in the medical field. I am a PEP leader because I can be a positive influence on the incoming first-year students by helping them get involved and feel comfortable. My advice to the new students is to allow college to be a positive experience by having fun and coming in with an open mind. Being focused on what I have to do to finish college with a degree is what brings me success as a student. The total atmosphere of the UT Martin campus, including the students, staff, and athletics, is what I love most about the school. Another one of my responsibilities on campus besides being a PEP leader is playing on the women’s soccer team. Being a member of the team has helped me become a better leader, more responsible, and more connected to our campus. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is a place where my friends and I can have socialize and have dinner together at least once a week.
Study tip: be able to manage your time well

My name is Savannah Smith and I am a Biology major. I plan to pursue a career in medicine after graduating in the fall of 2012. The enjoyment I get from helping new students adjust to the college life and the desire I feel to be a good example for them are what brought me to be a PEP leader. Accepting that you will make mistakes and making sure that you learn from them is a great skill to pick up as first-year student. Studying hard, participating on campus year-round, and putting effort into everything I participate in, whether it is in class or some extracurricular activity, has allowed me to succeed as a UT Martin student. What I love most about UTM is being able to participate in all of the extracurricular activities, which makes me feel like I am a part of something bigger than myself. Aside from PEP leading, I am also in a social sorority on campus. Being a member of this sorority has helped me make connections, which have given me an edge when applying for jobs, taking classes, and more. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Opera House, which can be expensive but is completely worth it due to the delicious food!
Study tip: quiz yourself before taking tests, be able to answer questions and explain the material

My name is Kayla Meyer and I am a Biology major. I intend to pursue a career in pharmacy after completing my college career in the spring of 2013. PEP leading is important to me because I want to be able to help the incoming students adjust to their new surroundings and be able to answer any questions they may have. A word of advice I would offer to the FYI participants is to just relax even though the college experience may seem overwhelming at first. Learning to balance my time between school, friends and family has made me successful at UT Martin.  What I love most about UT Martin is the relationships you are able to form with the professors that are always willing to help with any problems or questions that you may have. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has fast service, friendly workers, and great food.

My name is Kayla Parker and I am a sophomore Biology major. I plan to pursue a career in pharmaceutics after graduating in the fall of 2012. I am a PEP leader because I am a motivated student who wants to succeed and help others succeed as well. The First Year Initiative really helped me become more prepared for the college workload and I want to help other students the way my PEP leaders and professor helped me. As students taking part in FYI and the General Studies course, the best plan of action is to listen to everything your professor and PEP leaders have to tell you about the adjustment to college and the tools to succeed. By maintaining academic excellence during my college career, I have been able to ensure that I am as successful as I want to be. What I love most about UT Martin is the size of the campus and classes, which I believe helps students learn more from professors and can devote more attention individually.  Being a member of Mu Epsilon Delta has not only helped me to meet other people but has also reassured my decision to pursue a career as a pharmacist due to the professionals who speak at our meetings. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has very good Mexican food and a frequently large student crowd.
Study tip: study in advance, ask your professor to explain things in further detail

My name is Amber Replogle and I am a Cellular and Molecular Biology major.  I plan to pursue a career in pharmacy after graduating in the spring of 2013. I am a PEP leader because I love to help first-time college students get adjusted to college life and teach them about the responsibility and accountability that comes along with being a college student. A word of advice that I would like to offer the incoming students is to get involved and participate, for you will only get out of college what you put into it. Success comes to me as a student of UT Martin because I know how to successfully manage my time between school, work, and the extracurricular activities that I am involved in on campus. One of the aspects of UTM that I love the most is the small campus, which allows me to walk to any of my classes within ten minutes of each other. A big part of my life as a college student is my membership in a social sorority.  My sorority has helped me become a better leader, gain motivation and self-confidence, and make many friends who played a part in making me who I am today. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have inexpensive yet very good Mexican food and roomy accommodations.
Study tip: find your best study style and stick to it, whether it is with groups or alone, or with music or in silence

My  name is Brittany Barthol and I am a senior Biology major. I intend to pursue a career in medical missions after graduating in the spring of 2012. Wanting to give that little push in the right direction to a student beginning what should be the best four years of his or her life is what made me become a PEP leader. I want the incoming students to realize that they will be handed the tools they need to succeed and will have fun along the way if they choose to utilize them. Balancing my class schedule, a job, and participation in student organizations has made me a successful student.  The beautiful campus and friendly small-town environment are what I love most about UT Martin, which I believe is the best university. Being a participant in the Baptist College Ministry has helped me grow in my Christian faith by having opportunities to lead Bible studies, participate in mission trips, build relationships with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and reach out to the UT Martin campus. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because it is mine and my roommates’ place to catch up on each others’ lives as we all tackle busy schedules.
Study tip: read over your notes each night, keep up-to-date with your classes

My name is Elizabeth Stokes and I am a Cell and Molecular Pre-Med Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I hope to go to medical school before pursuing a career in medicine. Knowing that I can make a difference in the lives of incoming students by working with them and assisting them during their first year as a PEP leader is very rewarding. A word of advice I would offer the FYI participants is to utilize the advice of your PEP leaders and faculty mentors who are there to help and offer experienced advice. My success at UTM comes from the excellent faculty, the support of my family, my involvement on campus, and my own drive to succeed. What I love most about UT Martin is the small campus, which makes it very easy to get involved on campus and be a face recognized my many, including faculty. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of a social sorority. Serving in this sorority has helped me become active in Greek life and in the community, as well as on campus, in community service, and in scholastic events. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has low, student-friendly prices and great food.

My name is Colton Teague and I am a Biology major. My career aspirations will put me somewhere in the medical field after my graduation in the spring of 2012. The enjoyment I get from being involved on campus and helping the new students through the same struggles I faced as a first-year student is why I am a PEP leader. So many students fail to get involved and participate in the First Year Initiative activities, which is why I would advise you to get the most out of the experience by putting forth effort with an open mind. Listening to the advice from older students and my PEP leaders about studying and getting involved has made school fun and made me a successful student. The family-like atmosphere of knowing the people in your classes as well as your professors is what I love most about UT Martin. Participating in Collegiate FFA has helped me to stay involved in an organization that I loved in high school and will now help me meet new people with similar interests. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it has great Mexican food for a great price.
Study tip: don’t procrastinate, learn a little everyday over several days

My name is Tiffany Cathey and I am a senior Biology major. My intention is to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant after my graduation in the spring of 2012. I am a PEP leader because I want to be a positive role model for the first-year students and be seen as a comfort due to my knowledge of and success at UT Martin. Something I would like the FYI participants to know is that the First Year Initiative should be a fun program that will give the first-year students a lot of information that can help them throughout their college career. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I ask questions when I do not understand something, I study with classmates in order to better understand material, and I always try my best.  The fact that the small class sizes will allow me to get to know my professors and classmates better is what I love most about UT Martin. Aside from being a PEP leader, I am also in MED, Tri-Beta, and several honor societies, all of which have helped me meet new people with similar interests as well as to get to know several of my professors outside of a classroom setting. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Parnell’s because the food is great, it’s not expensive, and they have karaoke on Wednesday nights.
Study tip: rewriting notes

My name is Christine Hassell and I am a sophomore Environmental Biology major with a minor in Business Administration. After graduating in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in an animal training field. Acting as a PEP leader has given me the opportunity to make incoming first-year students feel more comfortable with the transition to college. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to ask a lot of questions because you’ll never know something until you ask. Going to class and doing my homework prevents me from getting behind in classes and allows me to be successful as a student. The variety of ways to get involved on campus, such as the number of clubs and groups, is what I love most about UT Martin. I am involved in a variety of organizations on campus in addition to being a PEP leader, and these organizations include a social sorority, University Scholars, and Varsity Equestrian. Being a member of these groups has allowed me to hold leadership roles, gain social opportunities, meet people with similar interests, be challenged academically, do community service, and stay in constant contact with my favorite pastimes. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because of the awesome waiting staff and the cheap, delicious food!
Study tip: manage your time well, set aside study time

My name is Veronica Kernodle and I am a senior Organismal Biology major. I hope to seek a career in speech pathology after graduating in the spring of 2012. Being a PEP leader is important to me because I want to invest in a younger generation that will carry on the UT Martin legacy and let them know about all the wonderful things the school has to offer. I want to urge the FYI participants to be serious about the program and realize that it will give you some of the best advice and help that you will receive in your entire college career. Not being afraid to lean on others for support while keeping a busy schedule between studying and being involved in many activities plays a large role in making me a successful student. The characteristic of UT Martin that I love most is that it is a small town because it allows for personal relationships with my classmates and professors. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member in a social sorority, Mu Epsilon Delta, and the Baptist Collegiate Ministry. These organizations have helped me become a well-balanced person through their separate ideals and goals but similar encouragement of personal growth in several areas including education, social life, career aspirations, and faith. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have the best chicken, cheese, and rice.
Study tip: talk to professors and ask them questions, networking is also important, ask for practice problems or online resources

My name is Rachel Kinard and I am a sophomore Environmental Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2013, I hope to pursue a career in zoo keeping.  My love of helping people led me to be a PEP leader. The students participating in FYI should definitely listen to what the speakers have to say because what they tell you will help you out in your life here at UT Martin. Maintaining good manners while doing my homework and studying has made me successful as a student. The small size of the campus is one of its most loveable aspects because it helps me feel safe and comfortable. Not only am I a PEP leader here on campus, but I am also a member of a social sorority that has helped me become a better woman. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Pizza Hut because the pizza is awesome and they serve Mountain Dew, which is the best combination since peanut butter and jelly!
Study tip: study in a quiet place, avoid distractions

My name is Brandon Smith and I am a Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in Dentistry. My main reason for being a PEP leader is that I want to be the person someone is not scared to approach and ask about anything. I love helping people out and giving back, and if I can put just one person on the right track to becoming who I want to be in life then I will consider that a success. First Year Initiative is a great opportunity to meet as many new people as you can and I highly encourage doing so. Always being prepared for class has made me successful at UTM. The small town feel and the small class sizes are qualities that I am fond of about this school. As a member of University Scholars in addition to PEP leading, I have been able to meet new people and get to know the faculty better. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because of their pechuga especial.

My name is Kristin Brooks and I am a Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2013, I hope to pursue a career in pharmacy. I am a PEP leader because I feel that I will be able to help the new first-year students along by giving them advice and guidance in hopes that it will enhance their college experience. The First Year Initiative is a time to ask any and all questions that the incoming students may have because the staff is full of people specially equipped to answer questions and solve any problems or address any sort of concern.  Understanding the concept of applying a large majority of my time to studying and preparing for upcoming assignments and projects is what brings me success as a UTM student. The availability of personal help from professors on assignments and concepts is what I love most about UT Martin. Being a member of the Honors Program has helped me to put extra effort into my studies because I am not only required to fulfill all the requirements of my regular classes but also the requirements of the Honors Program by attending speakers and events. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because of the friendly and speedy service.

My name is Alexis Bullock and I am a Cell and Molecular Biology major. Upon my graduation in date in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in pediatric medicine. I am a PEP leader because I want to make a difference in the lives of the upcoming first-year students and impact the way they view their college experience. My suggestion to the participants in the First Year Initiative would be to ask questions and explore all the opportunities the campus has to offer to you. My ability to study hard while also allowing myself to have fun and enjoy the complete college experience brings me success as a UT Martin student. I love that UTM is located in a small, friendly community where I can receive a quality education at a reasonable price. The organizations that I belong to on campus are the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and Mu Epsilon Delta (MED). Being a member of these organizations has helped me to get involved on campus while also expanding my horizons. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Ida’s Wings because the food is really great and very affordable.

My name is Emily Worrell and I am a junior Cellular and Molecular Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in pharmacy. I am a PEP leader because I want to make the transition from high school to college easier and less stressful for the incoming students. Believing in yourself and managing your extracurricular activities around your studying are important things for students to do as first-year students. Learning my way around campus and constantly focusing on managing my time well have brought me success as a student. The close interactions between teachers and their students are what I love most about UT Martin. Participating in Mu Epsilon Delta (MED) has helped me network with other pre-health professional students. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because the food is very good and the prices are reasonable.

My name is Catherine Cole and I am a Health and Human Performance: Exercise Science and Wellness major. Upon graduating in 2014, I will pursue a career in occupational therapy. My PEP leaders inspired me to become a PEP leader by helping me understand the UTM campus and what it offered as well as what classes I should take, and I hope to do the same for the new first-year students. I would advise the incoming first-year students to avoid overloading their schedules the first semester and instead take the time to adjust to college life. I succeed as a UT Martin student because I take great pride in my grades while being actively involved on campus.  What I love most about UTM is the same thing that initially brought me to school, and that is the small teacher-to-student ratio. Being involved in a social sorority on campus has helped me by requiring me to make grades that meet a high standard and by introducing me to many new and interesting people that will help me through any problems I might face. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is an enjoyable hangout for a large number of students after a long day at school.
Study tip: start studying for tests more than just a night before

My name is Joseph “Joe” Michael Cook and I am a Chemistry major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career as a medical doctor. PEP leading is for me because I want to make sure incoming students have all the tools they need to make their first semester a successful one. My advice to students participating in FYI is to be a sponge by soaking up every bit of information the PEP leaders and faculty throw at you. The simple fact that I care about my grades and the success of others on campus helps me succeed as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is the small town atmosphere where everyone, including the professors, knows your name and you can make strong, lifelong connections. Participating in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry has helped me anchor myself spiritually at a time in my life when making decisions of faith is very influential on my future. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Canasta because they have great food at a decent price and the people who work there are very nice.
Study tip: pay attention to your professors in class, take good notes

My name is Brandy Behrens and I am an Electrical Engineering major. After graduating in the spring of 2014, I will pursue a career in transformers or programming. My positive experience in FYI last year made me want to become a PEP leader and pass on what I was taught because I enjoy helping people. Listening to what the faculty tells you as an incoming student participating in the First Year Initiative will pay off in the long run. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I make good grades and fulfill the responsibilities that are expected of me while taking the time to grow personally as well. The beautiful campus and quad, as well as the helpful staff, are what I love most about going to school at UTM. Participating in Leaders In Residence has helped me meet important people all over campus and improve my leadership skills. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is the best Mexican in town.
Study tip: turn off your music and TV, find a comfortable and quiet place to study.

My name is Henry “Devon” Hutchins and I am an Electrical Engineering major. I will pursue a career in computer design after graduating in the spring of 2013. Being a PEP leader is an outlet for me to help students going through what I have been through in the past as a student. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to listen, sit in the T zone, and make friends with classmates and teachers. I am able to succeed as a student because my teachers are great, my study habits are effective and I devote time to doing my homework. Having the opportunity to get paid for the fun of helping other students is what I love most about UT Martin. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Chick-Fil-A in the University Center because of the great chicken, good prices, and excellent ice cream.
Study tip: pay attention in class

My name is Brian Gilbert and I am a senior Electrical Engineering major. I plan to pursue a career in Alternative Energy after graduating in 2012. Helping the students avoid the mistakes I made as a first-year student in order to improve their overall careers is my goal as a PEP leader. Taking the FYI course seriously and taking advantage of the resources at your disposal is the best plan of action as a first-year student. I am able to succeed as a student because I manage an active social life while maintaining a successful academic career. The diversity amongst the student body is one of the most loveable aspects of life at UT Martin. Apart from being a PEP leader, I am also in a social fraternity and a member of IFC. Being a member of these organizations has helped me to mature and develop my intellect while networking and meeting many new faces. My favorite place to eat in the Martin area is the Keg in South Fulton because it has some of the best homemade BBQ I’ve ever had at a very affordable price.

My name is Ashely Moore and I am a Secondary Math Education major. I plan to pursue a career teaching high school math and coaching after graduating in the spring of 2014. Wanting to instill others with the same passion that I have for learning and succeeding at UTM and in life is what led me to be a PEP leader. I would suggest to the new students to get involved on campus, prioritize, and organize your schedules while making connections and building relationships with classmates and professors. Prioritizing and organizing my schedule in order to stay involved on campus has allowed me to succeed in my studies.  Being a member of both Leaders in Residence and Phi Eta Sigma has helped me to be confident in myself not only in academics but also in my leadership roles and in my relationships with the people who encourage me to be the best I can around campus and in the classroom. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because of the great food they serve that reminds me of my favorite Mexican restaurant in my hometown.
Study tip: stay organized, be confident in yourself, ask for help

My name is Amy Dysinger and I am a Communications major. Upon graduating in 2012, I will pursue a career in public relations. My PEP leader was very helpful to me and showed me how to succeed as a first-year student, so I want to do the same for the incoming students as their PEP leader. The best thing for the incoming First Year Initiative students to do is to get involved and attend everything. I believe my success as a student comes from working hard to meet my goals and doing my best. What I love most about UT Martin is the helpfulness of the faculty and the small town feel. Being a member of the PRSSA has helped me learn more about the career I am pursuing as well as meet lots of people and travel. My favorite place to eat in Martin is my own apartment because I my friends and I love to cook.
Study tip: stay organized and have a study space

My name is Natalie Medling and I am a junior Communications major. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2013 before pursuing a career in Public Relations. I am a PEP leader because I want students to get the most out of UT Martin. As participants in the First Year Initiative, I believe students should definitely listen up and participate—they will be glad they did. I find success at UT Martin because I am involved and care about my education. What I love most about UT Martin is that I am able to remain close to home while meeting people from all over. I am a member of an honor society called Phi Eta Sigma, which has helped me realize that hard work does not just happen over night but rather takes hard work and dedication to have a 3.5 GPA or higher during your first year in order to become a member. My favorite place to eat in Martin is K&N because it has great food, and I don’t have to leave my car.

My name is Dominique Wilson and I am a senior Communications major. My graduation will be in the fall of 2011, after which I will pursue a career in radio broadcasting. Being the oldest of six children, I feel as if it is my duty to help those who come after me, which is why I am a PEP leader. My advice to incoming students is to always prepare ahead of time. Never giving up and putting my best foot forward in any task that I pursue allows me to succeed as a student. The opportunity to develop close relationships with your professors is what I love most about UT Martin. Participating in a social sorority on campus has helped me learn to get along with people that I would not normally interact with. My favorite place to eat in Martin is The Hearth because of the never ending baskets of rolls and strawberry butter!
Study tip: study ahead of time, do not try to cram

My name is Janessa Henderson and I am an English major. I will seek a career in law after graduating in the spring of 2012. I am a PEP leader because I want the entering students at UTM to become something great and have a mentor that they can count on. My advice to the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take to heart all of the information given to you and utilize your PEP leaders by heeding their advice and help. Organizing my time between social activities, organizational responsibilities, work, and studying has brought me success at UT Martin. The small class size at UTM is perfect because every professor gets the chance to know every student, which is what I love most about going to school here. Acting as the president of Peers Advocating Respectful Relationships has helped me learn to organize my time, become humble, and be grateful that I have the opportunity to help others. I prefer to go from place to place to eat on different occasions because I am not a picky eater, so any place in Martin will benefit me well.
Study tip: highlight important information during lecture, then go back and read and rewrite it

My name is Marah Vogt and I am a Graphic Design major. After graduating in 2014, I will either continue schooling or pursue a career in graphic design. As a PEP leader, I want to make sure that the incoming first-year students get as good or better of a start to their college careers as I got. My wish for the FYI participants is that they take everything they are told to heart because the people instructing you in the course honestly want you to make the best of your college experience and want you to succeed. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I spend time studying and doing homework while also arranging time to be social and get involved on campus. The classes, campus, organizations, teachers, and friends that I have made at school have kept me here and helped me to fall in love with UTM. The time I have spent as a member in the Visual Art Society has helped me gain a better understanding of the career that I have chosen while getting to know the professors of the art program and learning techniques that may not be shown to us in class. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the Rodeo Restaurant (formerly Veranda) because they offer a wide selection of choices of food that come in plentiful portions at a reasonable price for a date or just a night out with friends.
Study tip: study in the library, avoid distractions, allow yourself to take breaks.

My name is Brittany Kasprack and I am an Exercise Science and Wellness major. I will pursue a career as a chiropractor after graduating in the spring of 2012. PEP leading is important to me because I believe that I am the proof of the success that UT Martin enables students to gain. The best advice I can give the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to view college as a game and to allow those around you to teach you how to play it. Much of my success as a student comes from the encouragement from everybody around me to make my goals a reality. What I love most about UT Martin is being on the women’s Equestrian team. Being on the team has helped me to become a strong, independent, successful woman. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because everyone loves Mexican!

My name is Drew Simmons and I am a Human Health and Performance major. I plan to pursue a career as a chiropractor after graduating in the spring of 2013. As a PEP leader, I want to help first-year students get acquainted with college life, teach them how to succeed in their classes, and show them how they can get involved on and off campus. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take the program seriously and listen to what is said in order to succeed as a student. Putting my school work first and knowing how to manage my time between school and being involved in campus organizations allow me to succeed as a UT Martin student. The personal level that can be achieved between students and the staff due to the small size of the campus is what I love most about UTM.  Organizing and running many of the events held by the social fraternity in which I serve has helped become more responsible and more of a leader. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they have great food, reasonable prices, friendly service, and popularity among the UT Martin students.

My name is Sarah Appleton and I am a Political Science major. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2013 before pursuing a career in law. I am a PEP leader because I absolutely love being a UT Martin student and I think that my enthusiasm allows me to encourage new students.  My advice to the students participating in the First Year Initiative is to avoid feeling overwhelmed when making the big, sometimes slow adjustment from high school to college. Following instructions from professors, budgeting my time, and asking for help when I need it are all things that bring me success as a UT Martin student. Being able to get to know my professors and classmates but still attending a school with large enough facilities and activities make attending UTM a loveable experience.  One of my responsibilities other than PEP leading is participating in SGA. Being a member of this organization had helped me learn about the campus and help students with concerns that they have. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because I grew up eating there with my parents and it is a familiar setting.

My name is Kristen Bailey and I am a sophomore Psychology major. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2013 and pursue a career in psychology. Making the first-year students feel comfortable and successful is my top priority as a PEP leader. As a participant in the First Year Initiative, I think it is important that you know all your options about having fun, getting help, and getting involved.  I enjoy success at UTM because I manage my time, study, have fun, and participate in several events. My favorite aspect of college life at UT Martin is the amount of available opportunities for fun and academics. I am involved in many organizations aside from PEP leading, such as Honors Society, NWTTA, and Phi Eta Sigma. Being a member of these organizations have helped me get involved and meet new people. My favorite place to eat in Martin is McDonalds because it is cheap and has good, greasy food.

My name is Katie Brock and I am a Nursing major. Upon my graduation in 2014, I will pursue a career in nursing. Being a PEP leader allows me to meet new people and help incoming first-year students have a positive experience while at UTM.  My advice to students going through FYI is to learn all you can from your PEP leaders because they have valuable experience that can help you. Setting aside study time and attending study sessions has brought me success as a student. The size of the campus and the friendly professors make college life at UTM enjoyable. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because the food is always great and I always see people I know when I go there.
Study tip: make flash cards

My name is Taylor Jones and I am an Exercise Science and Wellness major. I hope to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy after graduating in 2012. Helping the new students enjoy life at UT Martin by making a positive difference in their lives is my goal as a PEP leader. As a new student on campus, I believe that you should be active on campus and become a part of anything that you can. Prioritizing and staying active on campus and in class has made me successful as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is the home town feel in the classroom and around campus. Participating in a social sorority on campus has helped me to participate in community events and make a difference in the lives of others. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Asian Grill because I love sushi!

My name is Caity Brown and I am a sophomore Cell and Molecular Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in medicine. Because my First Year Initiative experience played a big role in my first year and I want it to be the same for the incoming first-year students, I chose to serve as a PEP leader. The best thing for students to do early in their career is to learn their most efficient study habits and stick with them. Whether it is during class or going to my professor outside of lecture time, I am always asking questions in order to solidify my knowledge of subject matter and ensure my success as a UT Martin student. What I love most about UTM are the helpful professors and staff. Part of my life as a college student includes being a member of a social sorority, which has helped me network on campus, meet many supportive friends, make connections with students within my major, and learn about which professors and classes to take or avoid. My favorite places to eat in Martin are La Cabaña and Los Portales because the food is great and they are both great places to socialize.
Study tip: Allow yourself to take short breaks from long periods of studying.

My name is Kassie Hughes and I am a Geology/Psychology major.  Upon my graduation in 2012, I will pursue a career in the Federal Bureau of Investigation. PEP leading is important to me because I remember what it was like to be lost on campus as a first-year student, and I like being the person that helps new students fit in and find their place at our university. My advice to students participating in the FYI program is to be optimistic and try to always find a way to relate things to your own life and experiences, no matter how boring the lecture is that you have to sit through. Maintaining a level of involvement on campus in intramural sports and clubs while still keeping up my grades and being in an honors program has led to my success as a UTM student. The most loveable aspect of going to school at UT Martin is the “college life” and all of the various opportunities that come with that while still being in a small town atmosphere. Participating in PEP leading, the SGA, Geoclub, SGE, and the Honors Program have helped me make a network of trustworthy people, gain people skills and group work experience, and make a personal connection with UTM.  My favorite place to eat in Martin is Brandy’s because the atmosphere is great, the food is delicious, and karaoke night is fantastic.
Study tip: lots of note cards

My name is Emily McLeary and I am a Biology major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2011, I will pursue a career in pharmacy. I am a PEP leader because of my belief that I can improve the transition of incoming students by giving them a good, consistent example of excellence and work ethic. The best advice I can give to the new students is to stay grounded by knowing who you are, where you stand as a student, and most importantly who you want to become. My success as a student up to this point is the result of my will power and determination to be productive as a part of my choice to be successful and make the most of all my opportunities. What I love most about UT Martin is the small ratio of students to teachers, which has allowed me to develop relationships with my professors that I may not have had the potential to develop at other universities. Other than serving as a PEP leader, I am also a member of Mu Epsilon Delta and the Biology Honors Society. Being a member of this organization had helped me grow as a student and as an active member in the community through community service and charity. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Taco Bell because it is delicious, fast, affordable, and they just extended their hours so they are open late at night!

My name is Jennifer Nicks and I am a Communications and History major. I will pursue a career in news writing after graduating in 2013. The fondness I have for encouraging people led me to be a PEP leader. Asking questions and being inquisitive as a First Year Initiative participant will help you tremendously. Succeeding as a student is as simple for me as working hard and behaving myself. The fact that I am a person rather than a number in the friendly UT Martin atmosphere is what I love most about the school. Writing for the Pacer is an experience that has helped me acquire a wider view of the world. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because it has good food and a great atmosphere.

My name is Talwyandra Richardson and I am a Chemistry major. I will pursue a career in pharmacy after graduating in the spring of 2015. The helpfulness exhibited by my PEP leaders inspired me to help make the difficult transition to college easier for the incoming first-year students. My hope is that the FYI participants will use their PEP leaders to their advantage because we are here to help! Studying regularly has helped me achieve success as a UT Martin student. What I love most about UTM is that it is a small, friendly, and beautiful school. Participating in Peers Advocating Respectful Relationships (PARR) has helped me learn how to bring awareness about sexual violence to other students. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because they make the most amazing fiesta nachos with grilled shrimp, chicken and vegetables, which I would recommend to anyone!
Study tip: make flash cards, study regularly, use a whiteboard

My name is Kayla Simpson and I am a sophomore Health and Human Performance Major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2013, I will pursue a career in occupational therapy. PEP leading suits me because I refuse to sit back and watch a person fail because they simply do not have the proper skills to succeed or do not understand what is required of them to succeed as an incoming college student. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to take seriously the advice and personal experiences shared by professors, administrative leaders and other UT Martin students. I am a successful student at UT Martin because, while I enjoy several different activities with other organizations, I use good time management and determination to put my schoolwork and grades first. What I love most about UT Martin is the small amount of students per classroom, which enables the students to better communicate with professors. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of a social sorority. Being in this organization has helped me branch out, meet new people, and learn how to manage time while living up to new responsibilities and expectations. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the new Rodeo restaurant because they have great prices for college students, friendly service, and great food!

My name is Anna Tankersley and I am an English major. Upon graduating in 2014 I will pursue a career in writing. I am a PEP leader because I understand how overwhelming and frightening it can be coming into a new, unfamiliar place such as a college. This understanding will help me to encourage students to learn, grow and mature during college and not just fade into the background and disappear. My wish for the students participating in the First Year Initiative is that they are not afraid to ask for help or discuss problems because there will always be someone on campus who is willing to help and listen to you. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I understand that college is just as much about grades as it is about gaining experience, and because I know this I try my best to learn something from every experience in and out of the classroom. Aside from being a PEP leader, I have also been inducted into Phi Eta Sigma. Being a member of this organization has helped me to understand the importance of keeping my grades up and recognizing my time here at UT Martin as a great opportunity. My favorite place to eat in Martin is U.S.A. Donuts because I can always go there to treat myself after a long week of studying.
Study tip: use the resources given to you, including other people and the library’s environment.

My name is Paige Turner and I am a Health and Human Performance: Exercise Science major. I will pursue a career in occupational therapy after graduating in 2013. Wanting to help the first-year students be successful in their first year of college is what drove me to become a PEP leader. Attending all the classes and asking all the questions you may have is the best plan of action for the students participating in the First Year Initiative. The knowledge that everything I do in college can be beneficial to my future career helps me focus on being a successful student. The wide variety of ways to get involved on campus is what I love most about UT Martin. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of the S.H.A.P.E. Club. Being a member of this organization has helped me to take on responsibilities as a committee chair and to not hesitate to speak up in front of a group of my peers. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Pizza Hut because it’s cheap, good, and provides a good excuse to take a study break!

My name is Matthew Abbot and I am a Chemistry/Pre-Pharmacy major. I intend to graduate in the spring of 2013 before going on to pursue a career in pharmacy. Acting as a friend, motivator, and positive role model for the incoming first-year students is important to me as a PEP leader. The best path to success for the incoming first-year students is to take the advice of the program, manage your time, and take responsibility for your academic success. Studying hard and pursuing realistic, long-term goals makes me a successful student at UT Martin. The close relationships between students and faculty are what I love most about college life here. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also in several student organizations that include the Honors Program, a social fraternity, Student Members of the American Chemical Society, and the Phi Eta Sigma Honors Society. These memberships have helped me transition efficiently into the college community. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Chick-fil-a because I can use my Captain’s Cash to get a quick and reasonably priced meal on a college budget.
Study tip: study everyday and stay on top of assignments, don’t rely on cramming

My name is Kelsey Currie and I am a junior Chemistry major. After graduating in the fall of 2012, I will pursue a career in Pharmacy. Because I am a good example of what a successful student should be and a good role model to the incoming students, I believe I am a good PEP leader. I would advise the FYI participants to develop a goal or plan for themselves, because without such a goal or plan you cannot succeed. Balancing schoolwork, a job, my involvement in a piano ensemble, and my membership in a social sorority has turned me into a successful student. The professors in the Biology and Chemistry Department are what I love most about UT Martin because they really prepare you for the tests you must take to get into any profession. My membership in a social sorority on campus has helped me become more outspoken, to have better time management, to get along with everybody, and to be of good service to all mankind. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Ida’s Wings because they have a whole variety of foods to choose from and they are open to hosting several social and beneficial events there for a reasonable price.

My name is Erin Miles and I am a Human Health and Performance: Exercise Science and Wellness major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in physical therapy. The love I have for this school and the potential it offers the students to prepare for greatness has inspired me to become a PEP leader in order to help the first year students have the best UT Martin experience that they can. My advice to the incoming FYI participants is to start off strong, stay focused, get organized, and get involved. The welcoming feel of UT Martin that helps everyone feel like part of a family is what I love most about the school. My other responsibilities on campus in addition to PEP leading include being a member of the S.H.A.P.E. Club and the BCM. Being a member of these organizations has helped me learn a great deal about leadership and has guided me in growing in my walk with the Lord who has guided me and shaped me into who I am now.  My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is the best Mexican food around.
Study tip: find the place where you can concentrate the most, study sooner than later

My name is Laura Gullett and I am an Accounting major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2013, I plan to pursue a career in forensic accounting. I enjoy PEP leading because I can help incoming students gain confidence coming to college and help them become acclimated with UTM. My advice to incoming students is to come to college excited and with an open mind towards branching out and experiencing new things. By knowing how to prioritize all of my responsibilities, I have achieved success as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is how easy it is for everybody to find a place where they belong. By serving in a social sorority, I have really been able to learn the meaning of teamwork and understand that it takes every single member doing their part for the group to be successful. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Canasta because the prices are low, the portions are big, and the food is great—all of which appeals to a broke college student!

My name is Jennifer Harper and I am a Communications and International Studies dual major. After graduating in the fall of 2012, I will pursue a career in public and international relations. I chose to be a PEP leader not only to gain experience in a leadership role, but to offer a fresh perspective to UTM as a former transfer student. I highly encourage the incoming students to jump in and get involved! From degree-related to social clubs and activities, UTM offers something for everyone. My time management skills have enabled me to find success here at UT Martin. Because of the level of self responsibility associated with college course work, I found it important to utilize a planner to keep me on track with my assignments. The talented faculty and staff at UT Martin truly make my time here worthwhile. It is a wonderful feeling to walk into my professors’ offices and have a personal relationship with them, and it is awesome to know that they would bend over backwards to help me with projects and in securing internships. As a participant in a social sorority, I have learned to be involved, emerge as a leader, and how to band together in times of difficulty. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because of its great service, roomy accommodations, and wonderful Mexican food at a price that will not serve to worsen a college student’s already poor financial situation.
Study tip: keep a planner

My name is Victoria Taylor and I am a Chemistry and Biology double major. Upon my graduation, I will pursue a career in medicine. Wanting to help the incoming students realize their full potential in preparation for becoming a future leader in our society is what drove me to become a PEP leader. Some advice that I would like to offer the incoming students is to start new relationships, build character, and get involved in an organization that you genuinely care about and will keep you busy. Learning the importance of balancing education, social activities, and campus involvement early in my college career has allowed me to succeed as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is the small town atmosphere where there is always I somewhere I can go for advice or to get involved. Getting involved in Tri Beta has allowed me to network with other biology and chemistry students with the common goal of getting into some sort of pre-professional school or research program. My favorite place to eat in Martin is US Donuts because you can never go wrong with donuts!
Study tip: use the resources on campus, don’t procrastinate, aim high

My name is Caryce Gallimore and I am a K-6 Elementary Education major. After graduating in the fall of 2012, I hope to pursue a career in teaching. I am a PEP leader because I have benefitted in many ways from UTM and would like to help others gain as much from their college experiences. I would advise the FYI participants to use the First Year Initiative as a way to meet new people and get your questions answered. By reaching out for every opportunity that has been offered to me including travel studies, scholarships, and leadership positions, I have been able to become a successful student at UT Martin. The atmosphere of the town and the safe and friendly campus are what I love most about the school. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of STEA. Being a member of this organization has helped me be better prepared to be a professional educator in a fun and productive setting. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Cowboy Café because you can order breakfast all day long and their sweet potato fries are awesome!
Study tip: try new strategies for studying and realize what works for you

My name is Ian Garrigan and I am a Biology major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I plan to begin a career in medicine. I am a PEP leader because I enjoy helping other people and being a positive influence in the lives of younger people by passing on my knowledge and experience. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to participate and ask questions. Participation is the key to receiving all the beneficial aspects that FYI has to offer. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I work hard, rarely miss class, take good notes, study often, and get involved in extracurricular activities. I feel that the small town atmosphere of UT Martin is great. The small class size allows for an intimate student-teacher interaction, which is very helpful to being a good student. Also, the amount of activities available at UTM makes college fun and exciting. In addition to PEP leading, I also belong to a social fraternity. This membership has helped me to grow up, assume new and challenging responsibilities, and develop as a leader. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Asian Grill. Not only do I love the sushi and Japanese cuisine there, but it is also a great place to socialize and take a break from academics.

My name is Cody Williams and I am a sophomore Biology major. Upon graduating in the spring of 2014, I will pursue a career in physical therapy. The opportunity to help incoming students by being a role model in a leadership role is what led me to be a PEP leader. Some good advice for the incoming students is to take advantage of all your opportunities, ask your PEP leaders questions, and meet new people whenever you can. Being pushed and encouraged my parents to achieve high grades and to never give up on something I have started has brought me success as a student. The convenient size of the campus and proximity to the dorms is what I love most about UT Martin. Being a member of Leaders In Residence has helped me better understand the fundamentals of being a good leader. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the Hearth because Doug’s chicken is amazing, the staff is friendly, the food resembles home cooking, and they have great prices.

Study tip: study as you go along, never try to cram

My name is Kelly Burdett and I am an Animal Science major. I will pursue a career in either veterinary science or medicine after graduating in 2013. My desire to help students find their niche here at Martin and see it is a second home is what made me want to be a PEP leader.  Realizing that you can have the best time of your life if you’re willing to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things at UT Martin is the best thing for the incoming first-year students. Doing my best, communicating with professors, getting involved, and balancing time between work and play has led to me to success as a student. The easiness of getting to know everyone on such a small campus coupled with the abundance of activities for an adventurous spirit is what I love most about UT Martin. Participating in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry has helped me meet new people, help others, get plugged in, and find my new favorite place to hang out because of the wonderful, encouraging people. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because their wonderful Mexican food is just amazing.
Study tip: find where you are comfortable studying, go to a place without distractions

My name is Meredith Dunn and I am a senior Communications: Public Relations major. After graduating in the fall of 2011, I will pursue a career in sports media. I am a PEP leader because I believe in helping students succeed and showing them that UTM is a wonderful place with plenty of opportunities to grow and develop as a person. My advice to new students is to get involved in clubs and organizations, develop friendships, and remember that academics are the main reason for your time at college. Being actively engaged at UT Martin has helped me make connections all over campus and learn the keys to succeeding as a student. What I love most about UTM is that, no matter where I am on campus, I can see a friendly face smiling at me. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also in a social sorority on campus. Being a member of this organization has helped me become a confident, strong-willed, loving, and passionate young woman with many opportunities and friendships that have helped me succeed along the way. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because it is a place that many people on campus go to socialize in a great atmosphere that feels like a second home!

My name is Teresa Fowler and I am a Nursing major. I will pursue a career in advanced practice nursing upon my graduation in 2013. I am a PEP leader because I want to assist others in reaching their full potential as a UTM Skyhawk. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to get involved and don’t take what you learn during welcome week for granted. By getting involved and getting my name out there, I have achieved success as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is the friendly atmosphere. Aside from being a PEP leader, I am also in a social sorority, a participant in the Scholars program, a part of SGA, and a member of Collegiate 4-H. Being a member of this organization has helped me become more confident with myself and my abilities, get to know more people, and make more connections. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because the relaxed atmosphere is great after a week of difficult tests.
Study tip:  take the time to study

My name is Jennifer Jones and I am a junior Health and Human Performance/Psychology. Upon graduating in the spring of 2013, I plan to pursue a career in physical therapy. PEP leading is great for me because I love meeting the incoming first-year students and assisting in making their first year of college a little less hectic. My advice to the First Year Initiative participants is to learn as much as possible about the campus in your first semester and take advantage of your general studies class by asking your professor and student mentors any questions you may have about academic or personal problems you may encounter. I am a successful student at UT Martin simply because I choose to take advantage of every opportunity to get ahead and enjoy learning. During my time in college there has never been a time when I could not find something fun to do. Even though there may not be much going on in the city of Martin, the campus really makes up for it and that is what I love most about UTM. Being a member of the Rotaract Club has helped me get more than enough community service hours and meet new people all over the campus and around the community. My favorite place to eat in Martin is McDonalds because it is fast, cheap, and their fries are always cooked to perfection!

My name is Heather Kee and I am a Special Education major. I hope to pursue a career in teaching elementary special education after graduating in the spring of 2014. I believe that being a PEP leader will give me excellent training for my future career while also giving me the chance to be a person that the incoming first-year students can come to for advice, help, and encouragement. My hope for the First Year Initiative participants is that they really participate, take advantage of all the information they are given, and recognize that their PEP leaders and mentors are going to be there for them throughout their collegiate career. Planning everything in advance and remaining very well organized allow me to succeed as a student. The comfort level I feel when talking to my professors about assignments and advice is what I love most about UT Martin. Participating as a member of Leaders In Residence has helped me meet new people my age that want to change things for the good and take charge of their futures. My favorite place to eat in Martin is the Hearth Restaurant because it reminds me of the kind of comfort food that my grandmother cooks for Sunday lunch.
Study tip: start studying the first day of class, study the information while it is being taught to you

My name is Rebecca Stokes and I am an Animal Science/Pre-Vet major. I hope to pursue a career in veterinary medicine after graduating in 2014. The PEP leaders that I had as a first-year student made a positive impact on my college experience, and I hope to return the favor to the incoming first-year students by being an influential PEP leader for them. I strongly believe that the First Year Initiative program is very helpful and the things that you will learn while in this program will follow you throughout your college career, so I advise you to make the most of the experience. I am a successful student at UT Martin because of my personal drive to succeed as well as the support of my family, friends, and UTM faculty. The small classes of Martin’s campus allow students to form relationships with their classmates and professors, an aspect that I love about the school.  Being a member of a social sorority on campus has helped me become a more well-rounded person by getting involved and participating in community service projects.
Study tip: get out of the room, study in the library, use the resources

My name is Brittany Sturgill and I am an English major. I plan to take the next step toward a career as a college professor after my graduation in 2014. PEP leading is for me because I really want to help other students to get the same experience, if not a better one, than I had when I first arrived as a first-year student on a campus that I have since come to love. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is to make the most out of the experience by taking it seriously and thinking through the lessons while still having fun with the class. The great teachers and staff and the love I feel for UT Martin combined to inspire me to become successful as a student. What I love most about UT Martin is the wide range of opportunities available on campus. Being a member of the Student Government Association has helped me learn more about what is going on around this campus and what I can do to make it a better place for all the students, faculty, and staff. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Los Portales because of the great, friendly service and I love the food so much I could eat it four or five times a week!
Study tip: plan out your study time and commit to it, study ahead of time

My name is Evelyn Daniel and I am a Biology major. After graduating in 2014, I will continue my pursuit of a career as an occupational therapist. The impact that my PEP leaders left on me was a positive one, and I hope to do the same for the new students as a PEP leader. Looking at the First Year Initiative as something you will benefit from rather than just some required course will help you enjoy the experience much more. The many opportunities to excel and grow as a student and person offered to me by UT Martin help me succeed at school. The friendly environment walking to class, in the classroom, and anywhere else you can encounter students or faculty is what I love most about UTM. Being a member of a social sorority here on campus has helped me realize the importance of doing my small part in order to have a genuine impact as part of a greater unit. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because everyone will be there on Wednesday night and it is a fun place to connect and keep in touch.

My name is Ashley Grimes and I am a Nursing major. Upon my graduation in the spring of 2014, I hope to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner. The reason that I chose to serve as a PEP leader is that I love meeting new people and seeing others make new acquaintances. Seeing the first-year students find lifelong friends, become involved, make their first good college grades, and reach the realization that they are actually responsible for themselves are all very rewarding experiences. During the First Year Initiative, the most beneficial thing you can do is befriending the other people in your group. These people have the potential to be your first new friends and will be your gateway to becoming involved on campus and doing well in the classroom. I believe that my success at UT Martin began during my first year when I became involved in many campus organizations. This helped me to find many good friends, meet study partners, learn time management and obtain references at the outset of my college career.  The safe environment on and around campus is what I love most about UT Martin because it allows me to feel safe at all times. In addition to being a PEP leader, I am also a member of a social sorority. Being a member of this organization has helped me to  become very familiar with the UTM campus, find friends and study partners, improve on my leadership and time management skills, and has helped me adhere to my morals, values, and goals in a college setting. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Taco Bell because it is cheap, quick, filling, and tasty! What more could you ask for?
Study Tip: While studying, practicing repetition can be a very helpful technique. Read your notes repeatedly and begin doing so at least a week before your upcoming test. I would also recommend getting to know a person in your classes that you will feel comfortable asking questions regarding assignments and tests.

My name is Kristen McKnight and I am a senior Biology major. I intend to graduate in the spring of 2012 before pursuing a career in optometry. Wanting to help encourage and inspire first-year students to continue their pursuit for greatness at UT Martin is what led me to be a PEP leader. I would like to advise the incoming FYI participants to absorb as much information as they possibly can from their PEP leaders who are invaluable assets that can steer you in the right direction toward making a smooth transition to college. My belief that achieving greatness at UT Martin is due to hard work, self-discipline, and relentless determination has aided me in succeeding as a student. My favorite aspect of UT Martin is the small, close-knit community that allows for personal relationships with teachers who really care about the future of students and how prepared they are to enter the real world. Being a member of Rotaract here on campus has helped me become a more well-rounded, service-oriented, civically conscious individual. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Wendy’s because it is convenient and serves fast, fresh, and inexpensive food.
Study tip: don’t procrastinate, mark dates from the syllabus on a calendar. 

My name is Katie Snider and I am a Biology major. My plans include pursuing a career in nursing after graduating in 2014. I am a PEP leader because I want to help guide students to a successful college experience. Using your time wisely is a very effective strategy as a first-year student. I am able to succeed at UT Martin because I study every day, respect my professors, and I want to do well. The faculty and wonderful students are two loveable components of life at UTM. Being a member of MED has helped me get inside information about many careers in the medicinal field. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Sonic because of their slushies and onion rings!

My name is Abbey Stoker and I am a senior Cellular and Molecular Biology major. My future plans include pursuing a career in medicine or research. Having learned from my own experiences and from observing the people around me what it takes to be successful in college, I believe I can be an effective PEP leader. Listening to what the PEP leaders and faculty mentors are telling you about what works and what doesn’t is the best thing you can do as a participant in the First Year Initiative. I am a successful student at UT Martin because I work hard, establish relationships on campus, ask questions, and take advantages of the tools, resources, and opportunities I have been given.  Having a sense of feeling at home and belonging in a place of learning, leadership, opportunity, family, and friends has brought me to love UTM. Serving as a member in the Undergraduate Alumni Council has helped me understand the infrastructure of the University system, to become familiar with the traditions of UT Martin, and to value the undergraduate experience and importance of being an active alumnus. My favorite place to eat in Martin is Asian Grill because I love sushi and I already know what I plan to order when I walk in the door.
Study tip: plan out your study time, write out a schedule, stick to it

My name is KeVan Yarbrough and I am an education major. After graduating in the spring of 2012, I will pursue a career in teaching. My PEP leaders as a first-year students inspired me to make a difference, so I made the decision to become a PEP leader. My advice to students participating in the First Year Initiative is make connections with your PEP leaders and mentors. The many hours I spend studying bring me success as a student at UT Martin. What I love most about college life at UTM are the small classes and personal touch. Being a member of STEA has helped me make connections with students at UTM and beyond. My favorite place to eat in Martin is La Cabaña because their food is very good.