Isabella Michel made an impact at the University of North Georgia (UNG) by recognizing the value of simple opportunities to lend a helping hand.
It probably stems from the first time Michel, a December 2019 graduate with human services and delivery administration degree, stepped on campus. The Lawrenceville, Georgia, native came to UNG on spring break to meet with her adviser since she was transferring from Valdosta State University. A student noticed Michel looked lost and pointed her in the right direction.
Michel sought to be a similar source of comfort and guidance for freshmen and transfers ever since. She worked as a student assistant in Orientation and Transition Programs, where she was a part of 30 orientations per year.
"Making them feel welcome, I think that's the biggest thing with any orientation," Michel said. "It's those little moments that you say, 'Hey, do you need anything?'"
She could particularly appreciate the challenges transfers faced. They have already been through an orientation at another school and may just want to get their schedule. Michel aimed to answer questions they may not even have thought to ask. Making UNG a better experience for the transfers than their previous school was also top of mind for Michel.
She encouraged freshmen to get involved on campus and gave them information on resources they could need in the future.
"A positive experience helps them leave with a weight lifted, feeling prepared for success in college," Michel said. "We want each student and parent to leave orientation knowing that no matter what happens during their college experience, they are not alone and there is always someone willing to help."
One of her favorite parts of orientation was check-in, whether it was working at the table to check students in or simply greeting them when they arrived.
"It's a small thing," Michel said. "But I think even that small thing can impact how a person feels throughout the rest of their day."
She looks back to all the assistance her orientation leaders provided when she came to UNG and seeks to emulate them.
"It was my orientation leaders who made me feel so at ease during this transition and the above and beyond assistance they provided me in order to make sure I left with all my questions answered that inspired me to be an orientation leader and give back to incoming students the way they did for me," Michel said.
Michel's efforts won her the Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award from the American College Personnel Association's Commission for Admissions, Orientation, and First Year Experience in 2018. Her humble response to that recognition is consistent with her demeanor.
"It was definitely a 'wow' moment for me," Michel said. "I felt underqualified. This award is great, but really, me? I'm just a regular person like anyone else."
