Taylor Colbert '19, an accounting major, was named the USI Romain College of Business 2019 Distinguished Graduate. An outstanding student, she has been active in a number of organizations while at USI, including:
Let's take a moment to ask Taylor to reflect on her time at USI.
What did it mean to you to be named Distinguished Graduate?
Being awarded the 2019 Distinguished Graduate for the Romain College of Business is an honor to myself and my family. During my time at USI, I dedicated a great deal of time to my classes and studies. At the end of my time at USI, this award tells me that all of the hard work I put in was worth it in the end. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to learn from such a dedicated, supportive, and encouraging faculty and am thankful for all they do for the students at USI. I am also thankful for my family and friends who supported me in my endeavors as I attended USI. It's hard to leave USI now as it has become my home, but I will always be grateful for the memories I have made and the impact it has had on my life.
Favorite memories at USI:
My favorite memories from my time at USI would have to be from all the events I was able to attend while living on campus. Being able to go to Cookies & Canvas, USI Cinema, various club meetings and other planned events throughout the semester were always fun and a great way to spend time with my friends.
Do you remember what your first day and first week at USI were like?
My first week at USI was amazing and went by so fast. It was my first time living on my own while attending school, so coming to USI was an entirely new and exciting experience. I instantly felt at home, though, and everyone was helpful as I began to learn the ropes here. Welcome Week and the events on campus during my first week here gave me the opportunity to learn more about USI and what all there was to do on campus. Welcome Week and the events put on every year is an awesome experience and I recommend that students attend as many as they can.
Looking back over your college career, what has surprised you about college?
I think what surprised me the most about college was how much there was on campus that students could do and get involved in. I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to join various clubs. Through joining these clubs I was able to interact with professionals in the work force I wanted to join and able to grow both socially and professionally.
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman that you wish you’d have known?
If you are struggling or need help in your classes, talk to your professors. The faculty wants you to succeed, and are willing to help.
Get involved in the activities and clubs on campus. This is a great way to find out what interests you and what you may want to pursue after college. It also provides an opportunity to meet people who may become some of your greatest friends.
What are some things you accomplished at USI that you never thought you could?
When I first started at USI, I never imagined that I would be the 2019 Distinguished Graduate for the Romain College of Business. I am honored to be this year’s recipient and know that the dedication I had to my classes is why I was able to be successful while attending USI. Receiving this award confirms that all of the hard work I put in and the time spent studying and completing assignments was worth it in the end.
Goals and accomplishments for the future:
I plan on sitting for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam later this year. I also plan on coming back to get my master’s degree in the future while I am working as an Internal Auditor, and am excited about what that will entail.
What advice do you have for the next group of seniors to make it through their final year at USI?
Be excited that you will be graduating soon, but be sure to take everything in now while you still can. This last year flies by quickly and before you know it, it’s time for graduation. Spend time with your friends when you can but stay focused on your classes and strive to do your best. Make the little time you have left at USI count.
Published May 3, 2019