As a Montevallo native, senior Dakota DuBose has a unique perspective on life as a UM student, and knows firsthand the importance of being involved in the community.
Dakota DuBose
DuBose, who is majoring in education of the deaf and hard of hearing and is set to graduate in December, has made it a priority to volunteer on campus and in the city as much as possible during her collegiate tenure.
On campus, DuBose has been a competitive cheerleader for multiple years, and is a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Council, Montevallo Mavens, National Panhellenic Council, Best Buddies, American Sign Language Club and is president of the Nu Omicron chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. In addition to frequent volunteer work in the community, she is involved with the Boys and Girls Club, Special Olympics and holds cheerleading clinics for local schools.
For DuBose, giving back to her community comes naturally, especially in an environment as welcoming and friendly as UM. She always knew she wanted to attend UM, and her experience during Welcome Weekend as a freshman solidified her decision.
“The opportunity to meet new people and learn about what I could get involved in during my first semester was wonderful,” she said. “Everyone was welcoming and understanding for students new to the college experience here on campus, and I felt like I belonged.”
Thanks to personalized support from faculty such as assistant professor of elementary education Dr. Sandra Edwards and others in the Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program, DuBose has secured a fall internship at an out-of-state residential deaf school. After graduating in December, she is planning to seek her master’s degree.
“My four and a half years at UM have felt very quick, but memorable. The overall community, faculty, staff and students have made my time here one for the books,” DuBose said. “If I had to give one piece of advice to incoming freshmen, I would say to enjoy every second of your time here at UM. Building relationships with your professors in different departments, and meeting staff in different areas truly opens connections and creates memories that will last forever.”