Gray Wattenbarger

Major: Marketing

Since 2008

Background: A native of Rossville, Georgia; graduate of Ridgeland High School; editor of the Nocatula Yearbook; member and writer for the College's newspaper, New Exponent; Student Government Association organization representative; Student Activities Board, Entertainment Committee member; member of the Business Club, Hackberry & Oak Society, Student Ambassadors and Circle K; assistant director of Up 'til Dawn, a fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Fun fact: Gray is a resident assistant (RA) for Wesley Commons, TWC's newest residence hall.

I chose to attend TWC because of the family atmosphere it has. It becomes apparent when you first step onto the campus. Also, the size of the campus and the total enrollment influenced my decision; both were a great size that really made me feel at home at Wesleyan.

I have always enjoyed journalism and creating things, so I chose to major in marketing, which lets me focus on doing what I really enjoy and hopefully it will help me get a job doing that, too. I came to TWC unsure of my decision, but my professors and the staff have helped reinforce my decision to go into a marketing or public relations job. Their support helped me to gain a better understanding of what the fields entail, and without their support and guidance, I would be lost when it comes to career choices.

The best part of being in the TWC family is being able to walk down the sidewalk and having professors and staff stop to ask you how your day is going or just to say a friendly "Hello." I don't know if you would get this kind of personal attention anywhere else.

At TWC, there are more leadership opportunities than at any other campus I know of. With the small enrollment and the wide array of clubs and organizations, there is always something students can get involved in. By becoming a leader in many organizations, I am able to grow my leadership skills in a way I wouldn't have been able to at another school.

As a TWC student, I want to leave behind a positive message. I want to be remembered by what I did, the impact I made on my school, my organizations, and my career field, not just in college, but in life. I want to tell current students and future students that they should always make their own decisions. Never let anyone or anything alter your decision. College is a great experience, but it is even better if you choose the right one. TWC is a great college with a close-knit atmosphere. The friendliness, positivity and support you feel from everyone around you reinforced my decision to attend Wesleyan, and if you are looking for a school like this, then TWC is the right place for you.