Where in the World Wednesday | Kayla Shoaff

Kayla Shoaff
Rising junior studying Biomedical Sciences and minoring in Psychology
from Huntsville, AL

Kayla is shadowing doctors while she is abroad in Rome, Italy for the summer. So far she has also visited Pompeii, Naples, Capri, and Florence.

"Rome seems like a second home to me now. I plan to travel to Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands after my fellowship is over." - Kayla

Something that stands out:

I watched an open heart surgery and that was the most amazing experience I have ever encountered!

Something to look forward to:

I’m hoping to soon be placed in the OB/GYN speciality so I can witness live births and Caesarian sections!

Leading Woman Wednesday | Lexi Kontos

Lexi Kontos
Rising junior studying Nutrition Science
from Bettendorf, IA

"Theta means putting others before yourself and becoming a better you. Theta has given me so much and I'm thankful for being a part of this wonderful chapter." - Lexi

"Lexi is hilarious and brightens up any room she walks into. She will always have me laughing in a matter of minutes!" - Secret Sister

1. How did you choose what to study when you came to Auburn?

I have wanted to be a dentist since I was 4 years old, and studying Nutrition Science is one way to get there.

2. What else have you been involved in on campus?

In Theta, I hold the position of Panhellenic Assistant. Outside of Theta, I've volunteered with Alternative Student Breaks and I'm on the Auburn Club Swim team.

3. What are you looking forward to in the next year?

I am looking forward to seeing how our chapter grows on Auburn's campus and continuing my relationships with my closest friends.

Where in the World Wed | Emily Forrester

Emily Forrester
Junior studying Interior Design
from Augusta, GA

Emily is studying abroad in Ariccia, Italy for the spring semester. So far she has viisited many other cities including Geneva, Switzerland; Vienna, Austria; and Split, Croatia.

"One of my favorite parts of studying abroad has been living in a small town near Rome and beginning to experience what life in Italy is like." - Emily

Something that stands out:

One of my favorite cities we have been to is Matera. It’s a town in the southern part of Italy that was built into the caves surrounding it. It was such a unique place and a little hard to get to, but so worth it!

Something to look forward to:

I am really looking forward to going to Positano and seeing the coast when it is a little warmer!

Leading Woman Wednesday | Christine Arnold

Christine Arnold
Freshman studying Nursing
from Huntsville, AL

"Theta means strength. I have the most amazing group of girls who are my constant support system. My first year would not have gone as smoothly if it weren't for them!" - Christine

"Christine always puts a smile on everyone’s face. Whenever I need someone to cheer me up I can always count on her!" - Secret Sister

1. What are you looking forward to this year?

There's so much coming up that I'm so excited for, but I definitely have to say I am most looking forward to living on the hall with my best friends. I just know it's going to be a blast every day! I'm also pretty pumped about recruitment. Something about hanging out with all my sisters for a week and finding the next member class (and my future little) makes me so excited!

2. How did you decide what to study at Auburn?

I had no idea what I wanted to do. And if you asked me in high school, my major changed every other week. After a summer of volunteering at a hospital, I found I had a passion for helping others and an interest in a medical field. One day I was thinking about being a nurse and knew it was the perfect fit. Getting over my fear of needles was a small obstacle if it meant I got to help people for the rest of my life!

3. What else have you been involved with on campus?

I'm a member of Emerge, which is a freshman leadership program, and I am currently Theta’s executive assistant. It has given me the opportunity to become more involved in the sorority and grow closer with my sisters! I will also be a MEA in the fall, so I cannot wait to meet and help the new members! 

Where in the World Wednesday | Allie Taylor

Allie Taylor
Sophomore studying Industrial Design
from Walkersville, MD

Allie is studying abroad in Ireland for the spring semester. During her trip so far, she has visited Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, Kilkenny, Cork, Dunmore East, Killarney, and Ballyvaughan.

"Ireland has been an incredible experience. We lack WiFi and cell service, but it has made me appreciate the beauty of nature in this amazing place. Every experience has been unbelievable, from hiking to the Burren, taking a boat ride to the Skellig Islands, kissing the Blarney Stone, and studying at design schools with my best friends!" - Allie

Something that stands out:

My favorite this so far was celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Dublin and watching the parade with all of the fun people that live there. Kayaking and paddleboarding in Dunmore East also stand out because my professor flipped my kayak and I fell into the freezing water!

Something to look forward to:

I'm looking forward to going to Milan, Italy for the Milan Furniture Fair and renting Vespas to explore the city.

Where in the World Wednesday | Rachel Kelley

Rachel Kelley
Junior studying Architecture
from Tyler, TX

Rachel is studying abroad in Rome, Italy for the spring semester. During her trip so far, she has also visited Munich, Germany; Athens, Greece; Venice, Italy; Dublin, Ireland; and Malta!

"This semester has been a dream come true for me, something I have wanted to do my whole life!" - Rachel

Something that stands out:

So far Athens, Greece has been my favorite place. The Mediterranean culture and food are hard to beat! But I was just in Dublin for St. Patrick's Day, and that's always been on my bucket list, so it's hard to pick just one thing!

Something to look forward to:

I'm going to the Amalfi Coast for a weekend and seeing a different side of Italy, including the beach, which I'm excited about!

Leading Woman Wednesday | Erin Wise

Erin Wise
Junior studying Communication and minoring in English
From Roanoke, AL

"My goal for this year is to just be as involved in what Theta and Auburn have to offer as possible. I️ am a transfer student, so I️ have less time here than most. I️ want to know that my time here was full and spent doing things I️ loved and enjoyed." - Erin

"She is a loyal friend and works hard at everything she sets her mind to." - Secret Sister

1. What are you most looking forward to during the rest of your time in Theta?

I’m most looking forward to working with our philanthropy, CASA, and just getting to take part in service in general. Being helpful to others is something I️ am so passionate about.

2. Favorite Theta memory:

My favorite Theta memory is running home with my best friend, Sara Wilson. She was in my Pi Chi group and was the first person I️ talked to at Kick Off. From that moment on, we were inseparable. I️ wouldn’t trade the memories I’ve made with the people in Theta for anything!

3. What else are you involved in on campus?

I️ am an Orientation Leader for SOS and a part of Eagle Eye TV as an anchor and reporter for sports. I work at the Rec and Wellness Center and I will be a MEA for this year's recruitment.

Leading Woman Wednesday | Alex Brumbelow

Alex Brumbelow
Sophomore studying Psychology and minoring in Leadership
From Dalton, GA

"Theta has helped open so many doors for me and has given me many great friendships that I’m sure will last a long time after graduation." - Alex

"Alex is honestly one of the sweetest girls I've met. She's always there for you no matter what and can always find a way to make you laugh!" - Secret Sister

1. How did you choose what to study in school?

I’ve always loved being there for people and supporting them to reach their goals, and so I decided to make it my passion. I plan to become a Sports Psychologist because I grew up an athlete and understand their stresses and passion, but I also understand that sometimes it is easy to lose control of yourself when you care so much about the game. I decided to minor in leadership because I have always been fascinated with the different ways that a person can lead a group. and I believe that it will help me with my sports psychology endeavors by allowing me to guide athletes into becoming their best selves.

2. What are you involved in on campus?

I am a member of the Student Eminent Society (College of Liberal Arts Ambassadors) and an SOS Counselor. I joined them because I knew they would be a great way to meet new people and gain experiences that will be useful later on in life.

3. Any goals for the year?

My goals for the next year include keeping up my grades and helping to successfully transition transfer students into our wonderful Auburn family!

4. Favorite Theta memory:

My favorite Theta memory is from semi-formal when we got to dance the night away to some awesome music in a beautiful hotel venue.

Leading Woman Wednesday | Laney Blake

Laney Blake
Junior studying Animal Science and minoring in Business
From Dallas, TX

"Theta has given me a family that loves me unconditionally and friendships that will stick with me for the rest of my life." - Laney

"She's such a leader on campus and is a great role model for her sisters!" - Secret Sister

1. What is something cool you've been able to do because of your major?

I have had the ability to travel to multiple countries with not only my college, but with fellow Animal science majors. Freshman year, I went to Beijing, China and this year I am going to Lima, Peru. Over the summer, I will also be traveling on a service-learning trip to Nicaragua to work with veterinarians and inform local communities about animal welfare.

2. What are you involved in on campus?

I am a member of Phi Kappa Phi Academic Honor Society and Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society, and the secretary of Rho Lambda Panhellenic Honor Society. I'm a part of the Ag Mentor Program,  I have volunteered with Alternative Student Breaks, and I was an SOS Orientation Leader for transfer students. I joined these organizations because I wanted to branch out, meet new people, and make connections across campus.

3. Favorite Theta memory:

My freshman year, I went with a group of sisters down to the Bahamas. We got to do so many fun activities like being chased by iguanas on an island, visiting the swimming pigs (seen on the bachelor last year!) and swimming with sharks and stingrays!

Leading Woman Wednesday | Isabella Demco

Isabella Demco
Freshman studying Nursing
From Austin, TX

"Theta means so much to me, by truly becoming my home away from home. I'm so far away from Texas and Theta has allowed me to meet some of my best friends at Auburn." - Isabella

"She never fails to make me laugh, and is a great gal to have as a friend!" - Secret Sister

1. What are you involved in on campus?

I am currently a member of UPC, on the Development Committee, and I'm also a member of Diamond Dolls. I joined UPC because their events on campus really made Auburn feel like home, and I wanted to do the same for other students. I joined Diamond Dolls because of my love of baseball from watching my brother play all his life. I wanted baseball to be a part of my life again, and I wanted to meet other girls who love the sport as much as I do.

2. What are you most looking forward to during your time in Theta?

I'm most looking forward to being able to get a little of my own. I love my big so much and she's one of my favorite people. I want to be the person that she is for me for my little.

3. Any goals for the new year?

My main goal for this year is to get into nursing school in July. If I got in, it would mean the world to me, since I'm applying a year early. Ever since my first medical terminology class in high school, and then earning my certified nursing assistant license, I knew I wanted to study nursing in college.

Leading Woman Wednesday | Bailey Freeman

Bailey Freeman

Studying Human Development/Family Studies With a Spanish Minor

From Birmingham, AL

“To me it means being confident in who you are. I used to be really insecure about myself,
but Theta has definitely taught me to believe in myself and be confident in who I am.” -Bailey Freeman

“Bailey is an inspiration to me everyday.  I wouldn't be where I am without her.” -Secret Sister

1.What are you involved in on campus?

I am an AUDM Morale Captain, a Student Worker for Event Management in Athletics, a Student Fund Caller for AU Foundation, and was a Pi Chi this past summer!

2.What do you love about these organizations?

AUDM is so wonderful because you truly see the difference you're making with the money you raise. You get to go see the changes being made in the hospital and you get to see our Miracle Kids grow up who may not be here today if it wasn't for the hospital in Columbus and AUDM. It has become family to me and we love and support each other so much!

3.What is something you are passionate about?

I'm very passionate about adoption as I am a HDFS major. I have 2 adopted brothers and want to have a career as an adoption social worker. I truly believe every child in the world deserves a safe, warm, and loving home. There are over 153 million orphans in the world and I want to find as many of those orphans their forever families as I possibly can.

LWW | Ella Sykes & Rachel Parmer

Ella Sykes

Junior Studying History With 3 Minors

From Birmingham, AL

Rachel Parmer

Junior Studying Global Studies

From Hartselle, AL

“I have the opportunity to make the world a better place every single day with small acts of kindness, whether that's smiling at someone who looks sad or helping someone up who tripped on the concourse and that is what I am passionate about.” -Ella Sykes

“I love learning new things and one of my goals this semester is to learn something new in every class each day.”      -Rachel

1. What does it mean to both of you to be a leading woman?

Being a leading woman is all about taking initiative, whether that's being involved on campus or going the extra mile to make an A in your class. It's never passing up an opportunity to be your best self and help those around you. -Ella

True leadership is stepping down and serving others before yourself. -Rachel

2. What in Auburn would you consider a “hidden gem”?

Honestly we would say our church is a pretty fantastic hidden gem. They provide us with so many resources, like free food, a study space 24/7, and tons of support! -Ella

My front porch. My brother and I live together in a trailer near the woods and our front porch faces out over the beautiful trees. I love sitting on it in the afternoon with a good book. -Rachel

Leading Woman Wednesday / Kayla Tucker

Kayla Tucker

Senior Studying Biomedical Sciences

From Hazel Green, AL

“Theta means growth. I have seen myself grow into an incredible leading woman and I have watched so many other women grow into beautiful woman that are going to do such great things with their lives all because of the love and support Theta provides”- Kayla Tucker

“I know that whenever I need a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on I can go to her.” -Secret Sister

1.What are you involved in on campus?

I am the probation director for Theta, an IMPACT Projection Coordinator and have been a Pi Chi for two years now! I love being able to serve people through community service, or just loving on girls as they search for their Greek home!

2.How do you want to change Auburn or the world for the better?

My passion is to change the world through sight. I have dreams of becoming an eye doctor and I would love to travel the world providing vision care to those who don’t have access to it.

3.What is one thing you’ve done this past semester that makes you the most proud?

The biggest thing I have done this past semester is apply for Optometry School! I am starting to get a couple of interviews so I am really excited about my future with that!

Leading Woman Wednesday | Ashley Kim

Ashley Kim
Junior from Montgomery, AL
Studying Biomedical Sciences

"Theta is a group of strong women with whom I can confide in, share my life with, and learn from." 
-Ashley Kim

"She’s so hardworking and such an inspiration to me. I can’t imagine my time at Auburn or in Theta without her because she has become one of my closest friends!"
-About Ashley (from her Secret Sister)

1. How did you spend your summer?
I went to Korea this summer to study the language and culture! 

2. Why did you decide to go through recruitment? 
I went to a small high school and I was really scared about the big change. I thought recruitment was a great way to make new friends!

3. What is your favorite Theta memory? 
My favorite Theta memory is last years big little reveal! Surprising my little and making her crafts was so much fun!

4. What's something you wish you would've known freshman year?
Something I wish I knew as a freshman at Auburn is that everything is not the end of the world. So I definitely wish I knew how to put things in perspective.

5. What's something you've done that you're proud of?
For the past two years, I have been trying to live a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating right, and taking care of my mental health. Although I slip at times, my overall physical and mental well being has improved! I even get my friends and family to exercise with me.

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Where in the World Wednesday | Allie Coyte

Allie Coyte
Junior from Chelsea, AL
Studying Special Education

Allie is a rising junior from Chelsea, AL studying Special Education! This summer she got to travel to Thailand and partake in all kinds of cool activities and adventures! 

“I’ve been bungee jumping, rock climbing, repelling, caving, learned Mauy Thai, trekking, studied meditation with a Buddhist teaching monk, explored Chiang Mai, Pai, and I'm learning a lot of Thai along the way. My favorite saying I've learned since I've got here is "Mai pen rai" because it means "no worries" and it's a way of life for people over here and it's really cool to get to experience all of it. It has been a very eye opening trip and I am so glad I have gotten an opportunity to learn more about this amazing culture.” 

Make sure to follow our #whereinthewθrldwednesday tag on Instagram to keep up with the sisters of Gamma Omega's travels this summer!

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Leading Woman Wednesday | Angie Ebosele

Angie Ebosele
Rising Senior from Franklin, TN
Majoring in Biomedical Sciences/Pre-Med

"When I think of Theta, I think of a home that has helped me grow in many ways. Theta is also where I know I can always be comfortable because I have my sisters who will be there for me whenever I need them." 
- Angie Ebosele

"Angie is super funny, caring and a great friend! I'm really glad I got the chance to live with her on the hall and get to know her better because now she is one of my best pals!"
- About Angie (from her Secret Sister)

2. What are you involved with at Auburn and how has that impacted your time here?
I have been involved in AU Rhythm, the hip hop dance team. AU Rhythm has allowed me to have a place to exercise but also relieve stress and create amazing friendships. I’ve also been involved in Dance Marathon. AUDM is an amazing organization for so many reasons. I love it because we are all so passionate about helping ensure that kids have a hospital with the proper tools to keep them healthy. It has assured me that the medical field is where I want to dedicate my work.

3. Whats your favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon/ day off? 
I love spending my Saturdays at the pool with friends if it’s during the summer. Otherwise, I love being in downtown Auburn whether that’s shopping, getting lunch, or going to Toomer's.

4. What are you looking forward to most in your upcoming senior year?
I’m looking forward to making sure I’ve gotten everything out of my college experience that I can. I love Auburn so much and I’m sad that time has flown, but I also ready to find my next step in life.

5. Do you have any fun stories from when you went through recruitment? 
Many fun/funny things happened during my recruitment process, but I would say that dancing out of the Theta chapter room on sisterhood day is something I’ll never forget.

6. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be? 
I want to travel to so many places, but I have always wanted to see the Northern Lights. I’ve always been fascinated with natural phenomenon, and that is definitely on my bucket list.

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Where in the World Wednesday | Julie Sarasua

Julie Sarasua
 Senior from Clemson, SC
Studying Industrial Systems Engineering 

Julie is a rising senior from Clemson, SC studying Industrial Systems Engineering. This summer she is working as an undergraduate research assistant at RWTH Aachen University in Aachen Germany. She has also been able to travel on the weekends to places such as Paris, Berlin, Brussels, and Vienna!

"I'm working as an undergraduate research assistant at RWTH Aachen University this summer. I am researching best practices in the development of Green Infrastructure around the world, which will be applied to projects here in Western Germany. I have loved living in Aachen and getting to meet so many amazing people! I can travel on the weekends and have gotten to see so many incredible places--Paris, Berlin, Brussels, Vienna, and many more. While Vienna tops the list of cities, my favorite part of the trip has been the many nights spent barbecuing with locals and watching the sun set over the Dutch border."

Make sure to follow our #whereinthewθrldwednesday tag on Instagram to keep up with the sisters of Gamma Omega's travels this summer!

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Leading Woman Wednesday | Lindsey Hubbard

Lindsey Hubbard
Rising Junior Studying Communication Disorders
From Chelsea, AL 

"Theta means always having sisters to rely on and having endless support and love in everything I do here at Auburn and knowing I will have that no matter where I go in life."
-Lindsey Hubbard

"Lindsey has been one of my greatest blessings during my time at Auburn. I am so glad Theta brought us together because she never fails to brighten up my day!" 
(About Lindsey, from her Secret Sister)

1. What is your favorite Auburn tradition?  
My favorite Auburn tradition is rolling Toomer's Corner because it means a win for our Tigers!

2. What is one piece of advice you'd give to any rising freshman at Auburn? 
My number one piece of advice I would give to rising freshman is to try out for everything and anything here at Auburn. You never know where you can find your niche and your friends on Auburn's campus whether it be in your sorority or somewhere else on campus. Auburn has so much to offer and the best way to find what you’re really passionate about is to put yourself out there!

3. What are you most excited about doing this summer? 
Going on the lake with my family and friends! 

4. What is your favorite Theta memory? 
My favorite theta memory was participating in Greek Sing this past year with all of my sisters! I had so much fun getting know the new members and getting to be a part of something that benefits members of the Auburn community through Habitat for Humanity. 

5. How has being a part of the Panhellenic community benefited you at Auburn? 
Being a part of the Panhellenic community has helped me make connections all across Auburn's campus. Panhellenic has encouraged me to go beyond my just my sorority and get involved with other organizations on Auburn's campus.

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Where in the World Wednesday | Catie Beth Varian

Catie Beth Varian
Junior from Naples, FL
Studying Business

Catie Beth is a rising junior from Naples, FL studying business. This summer she is studying abroad in Rome, Italy and traveling around the country!

"This summer I had the opportunity to come over to Italy and work on a consulting project for a winery based in one of the suburbs of Rome. So far, I've been to the major places in Rome like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. I have also traveled to Sorrento, Pompeii, and Florence and I am visiting Capri tomorrow. So far my favorite things that I have done have been visiting the Amalfi Coast and taking a cooking class!" 

Make sure to follow our #whereinthewθrldwednesday tag on Instagram to keep up with the sisters of Gamma Omega's travels this summer!

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Leading Woman Wednesday | Chandler Pyron

Chandler Pyron
Rising Senior Studying Finance
From Columbus, GA

"Theta has been one of my biggest supporters throughout my college career. Theta has pushed me to become the woman I am today. It's helped instill work ethic, confidence, and the willingness to grow."
-Chandler Pyron

"Chandler was my first friend in Theta and we are still great friends! She's really funny and so much fun to be around! I know I can count on her when I really need her."
(About Chandler, from her Secret Sister)

1. How has being part of the Panhellenic community benefited you at Auburn?
The Panhellenic community helped me find my home away from home. I'm from out of state and lived off campus my freshman year and thought that the Panhellenic community would help me branch out and forge strong relationships that you need at college, and I was right. Panhellenic as a whole is so encouraging and loving.

2. What is one piece of advice you'd give to any rising freshman at Auburn? 
 "Expect the unexpected". I had a plan when I first started Auburn of how my college career would go. Quickly I found out that what I thought I wanted, I didn't really want it or it didn't work for me. I never thought I would end up in the school of business and actually love it enough to major in it, but here I am. Don't become so focused on a 4-year plan because you may miss some incredible opportunities along the way.

3. What are you most excited about doing this summer? 
I'm taking a beach trip at the end of the July and I am so excited! I'm definitely looking forward to the relaxation and catching up with family.

4. What TV show are you binge watching this summer? 
Gilmore Girls!

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