The CAS Corps are chosen to serve as representatives to all constituents of the College of Arts and Sciences and to create, promote and execute opportunities for academic and professional growth. These students represent a variety of departments from across the College of Arts and Sciences and will represent the College at events through interaction among current students, future students, parents, donors and alumni. Each month of this year we will be introducing one of our eleven students representing the college in a question and answer format. This month, meet Allison and learn about her volunteering and study abroad experiences. For more about the CAS Corps, visit: cas.appstate.edu/students/cas-corps.
Allison Staley
Major: Mathematics - General Mathematics
What clubs or organizations are you a member of?
Residence Hall Association and Honors College Vanguard
What sports or hobbies do you participate in?
Non-profit work
What scholarship(s) have you received from Appalachian while studying at Appalachian?
I am on a State V.A. Scholarship, and then I receive a scholarship through Student Affairs for working with Residence Hall Association (RHA).
What location(s) have you completed an internship?
The Dragonfly House Children’s Advocacy Center and Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office.
What location(s) have you completed a study abroad or a study away?
Washington, D.C. and England
What location(s) do you hope to go for an internship, study abroad or research experience?
Children’s Advocacy Centers of North Carolina
What are you most excited about this semester?
Being able to delve further into my major and start to begin working on my thesis.
What is one of your favorite memories at Appalachian thus far?
When Appalachian played the University of Miami. Even though we didn’t win, the atmosphere was like no other.
What do you like most about Boone and the surrounding community?
The opportunities to get involved. The community has so much that college students can help with in regards to giving back to Boone.
What do you feel has been valuable in your education at Appalachian versus another institution?
The passion that faculty and staff have. I have never felt like I am just a name on a roster. The people here truly care about students’ success.
Tell us about a transformational experience you have had at Appalachian.
I was able to serve on the selection committee for the new P3 Housing Project. I could’ve never imagined being afforded such an opportunity, and it was amazing to get to sit on a committee alongside such an accomplished group of individuals; knowing that my decisions would be felt and seen for years to come.
Tell us about one faculty member that has made an impact on your life and how.
Dr. Katrina Palmer in the Mathematical Sciences Department taught my first semester Honors seminar course and has been there for me ever since. I had to have surgery after one week of classes, and she made sure that I had everything I needed to succeed as a student despite that. She has always been there to answer all my questions about math and beyond.
Tell us about one other connection you have made while at Appalachian - a friendship, mentor, colleague, a new found hobby or interest.
I have found my passion for advocating on behalf of other students to improve their college experience. The Residence Hall Association has allowed me to be a voice for students that otherwise wouldn’t have one.
What is your understanding of “sustainability” after being at Appalachian?
Sustainability is not just making sure you recycle your plastic bottles and don’t waste power by leaving the lights on. It is a way of life!
What is your understanding of a “liberal arts” education and do you believe Appalachian has provided that?
A liberal arts education is being able to become educated on more than just your specific major and gain more of a global perspective. I definitely believe Appalachian has provided that.
What are you doing after graduation?
I plan to attend law school and then go on to earn a master’s in child advocacy and policy.
What is your dream job?
Legal counsel for a children’s advocacy center.
What do you think you will miss most when you graduate?
The family atmosphere. You never have to worry about someone not being willing to help.
Allison Staley CAS Corps headshot. Photo by Ellen Gwin Burnette
Allison Staley CAS Corps headshot. Photo by Ellen Gwin Burnette