Erin has noticed the toll that mental health takes on many, if not most, individuals — especially students — through her involvement on campus. She works in the Advancement Office and volunteers with the Bonner Program through their Saturdays of Service. She is involved in the Quaker Leadership Scholars Program, which supports students as they explore Quaker history and practices, and the Guilford Student Body Association.

Erin is a firm believer in mental health safe spaces, especially for students like herself who often struggle to find a healthy balance in their day-to-day ventures.

“College can take a toll on your mental health and your body. Make sure you speak up and let someone know how you are feeling. Do not be afraid to speak up,” Erin says. 

Erin’s passion for mental health began to flourish when she took an eight-week course through NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in Raleigh. “Once I move to Raleigh,” she says, “I plan to work more with NAMI to become an advocate and learn more ways to help others understand their condition.”

Choosing Inspiration 

After first discovering Guilford via information passed along by mail in a booklet, Erin, who is originally from Hampton, Va., decided to do a deep dive into what Guilford actually is all about. 

Through Guilford’s website she quickly discovered what most interested students find — that Guilford is guided by seven Core Values that encourage community, involvement, and activism. This was more than enough to lead Erin down the Quaker pathway. 

“I feel like I have met so many unique people who have helped me find myself as an individual,” she says. “They have motivated me to continue upholding Guilford’s values after I leave.”

She was also drawn to Guilford’s small class sizes and diverse population. 

“I really loved learning about everyone's backgrounds,” Erin recalls. “I felt like I have learned so much from them. It makes me want to travel to find out more about their different cultures.”

Hoping for a Better Future

Erin plans to attend N.C. State University’s Master of Accounting Program in the fall, and she wants to continue her volunteer work. 

She also hopes to partner with N.C. State to create safe spaces on campus for those struggling with their mental health. Although still pursuing Accounting, Erin marks this goal as an important side project that she’s extremely passionate about.

“I feel like I have made some great connections that would help me to find a job in my career field as well as help me work toward this mental health project that I would like to start,” she says.

Are you looking for an Accounting major at a North Carolina college? Schedule your personalized visit to Guilford to learn more about the College's Business and Accounting Department and the Guilford College MBA and to meet students who share your interests.