Benjamin Ainsworth thrives on helping his fellow University of North Georgia (UNG) students make the most of their college experience. He offers assistance both in his role as Oconee Campus Student Government Association (SGA) vice president and as a transfer coach.
As a transfer coach, he assists students who have enrolled at UNG after starting at another university. Many of the tasks he helps them with are as simple as enrolling in classes or figuring out which classes count as electives.
"Little things can trip people up," Ainsworth said. "It's great to be able to be there and help someone out."
Ainsworth, an Athens, Georgia, resident, is scheduled to graduate in May 2024 with a degree in English with a concentration in writing and publication. He said his perspective as a fellow student helps put incoming transfers at ease.
"There's a different experience students have when interacting with a fellow student," Ainsworth said. "We are able to offer reassurance."
According to Ainsworth, influence is much deeper than being able to give a motivational speech or direct people. It involves designing situations in a way that brings out the best in others.
"Leadership is about creating an environment where people feel a subtle but natural inclination to be productive and engaged while enjoying their time," he said.
Ultimately, he hopes his assistance makes a positive impact on students.
"They don't need to be my best friend. They don't need to love me," Ainsworth said. "They just need to have an innate, intuitive trust that I'm going to be competent."
