• University: Auburn University
• Major/Area of Study: Neuroscience
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Jennifer Hoffmann

Clinical experience, lab work and mentorship have all shaped Isabelle Hoffmann’s path toward medical school — but the biggest shift has been internal.

“I am focusing heavily on personal growth, clinical experience, and developing the empathy, communication, and resilience that my career will demand,” she said.

She encourages new students to build strong study habits early and get involved in activities they truly care about.

One of her most meaningful experiences so far has been working in a research lab, which deepened her appreciation for the scientific process and reaffirmed her passion for medicine.

Makenzie Jones has learned that doing well in nursing school goes beyond simply completing classes and demands discipline, growth, and preparation.

“Success in nursing school isn’t just about passing; it’s about mastering the material, managing my time wisely, and preparing myself to be the best nurse I can be,” she said.

Makenzie encourages new students to stay focused, prioritize their work, and embrace the full college experience.

Her biggest takeaway? “Trust God and enjoy the journey.”

• University: University of South Alabama
• Major/Area of Study: Nursing
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Juanita Taggart-Jones

• University: Troy University
• Major/Area of Study: Elementary Education
• REALTOR® Sponsor: John Kimbrough

Since being accepted into the Troy College of Education, Sarah Kimbrough has set higher expectations for herself — and found the support to reach them.

“Troy and its amazing staff have truly shaped me into the person I am today,” she said.

She encourages students to put their well-being first and embrace change, whether it’s in their major or their mindset.

One of her most meaningful takeaways has been learning to speak up and advocate for herself.

“Silence can cost you, and my confidence began to grow the more I used my voice,” she said.

“In order to be a truly well-rounded student, I’ve realized that success must extend beyond the classroom,” Carly Layfield said.

This year, she’s made that a priority — volunteering at elementary schools, tutoring peers, and taking on leadership roles in campus organizations.

Layfield began college with the goal of earning a 4.0 GPA, but she’s now focused on building a broader foundation that includes service and leadership.

She encourages new students to get involved early and develop time management skills that will carry them beyond college.

• University: The University of Alabama
• Major/Area of Study: Public Health/Pre-Dental
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Dayna Layfield

• University: University of Alabama at Birmingham
• Major/Area of Study: Biomedical Sciences/Pre-Med
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Lily Moore

Volunteering at Children’s Hospital and Habitat for Humanity gave Amy Moore a new perspective on what success in pursuit of a medical degree really means.

“One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned in college is that success isn’t just about academic achievement or building a résumé — it’s also about the connections you build with others,” she said.

She now prioritizes meaningful interactions and community involvement as much as academic progress, and encourages new students to make room for both in their college experience.

Ariana Rice started college with a strong GPA in mind, but over time, her focus shifted toward something more lasting — understanding.

“True learning transcends good grades,” she said. “It’s about understanding concepts deeply rather than simply memorizing facts.”

Outside the classroom, Rice is just as intentional — choosing involvement that aligns with her values and exploring her desired medical career path through mentorship and hands-on experience.

She’s also learned to see failure not as a setback, but as a catalyst.

“Mistakes become gateways to reflection, critical thinking and resilience,” she said.

• University: University of South Alabama
• Major/Area of Study: Biomedical Sciences
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Staci Lawrence

• University: Auburn University
• Major/Area of Study: Finance, Real Estate Development
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Norman Schlemmer

Trey Schlemmer accomplished one of his major personal goals early in college: launching a student-led real estate club. Through Plains Property Collective, students collaborate on investment analysis, build proformas, and evaluate potential deals.

“While personal growth and career development were always priorities, I’ve become much more focused on making a real impact while I’m at Auburn — creating opportunities not just for myself, but for others who share a passion for real estate,” he said. “Helping other students gain experience and confidence in this field has been incredibly rewarding and has shaped my long-term vision beyond my time here.”

Schlemmer encourages others to step out of their comfort zones and take chances.

“College has taught me that growth comes from putting yourself out there, taking risks, and not being afraid of failure,” he said. “Every time I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone, it’s opened doors I never would have imagined.”

Lucas Smith is focused on maintaining strong grades while also finding a healthy balance between school and life — something he’s come to value more with each semester.

“My advice would be to use the calendar feature in Canvas,” he said.

“I wish I had found out about it when I first started college because it’s very effective at showing when assignments are due.”

In addition to refining his own methods of staying on top of schoolwork, Smith has also gained a broader perspective by connecting with people from different backgrounds.

• University: Auburn University
• Major/Area of Study: English Literature
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Shelley Arant

• University: Auburn University
• Major/Area of Study: Kinesiology
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Amanda Spears

Lena Spears encourages new students to stay present and enjoy the moment — a mindset she’s worked to maintain through fast-paced semesters.

“My best advice for new, incoming college students would be to enjoy the moment,” she said.

“It’s very easy to get caught up in the future and next steps, but that often leads to missing the things that go on in your life.”

Spears set an ambitious goal to complete her undergraduate degree in two years and apply to graduate school.

Now, she’s graduating early and preparing for that next step sooner than expected.

Jackson Taylor’s goals this year focused on bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world experience. He set his sights on securing a summer internship in accounting and finance — and in the process, discovered just how much hands-on learning can expand his academic foundation.

“While academic success is still very important to me, I’ve broadened my goals to include gaining hands-on experience and exploring opportunities with different firms,” he said.

He encourages new students to start building relationships early, and with a variety of individuals, including professors, peers and industry professionals.

Taylor also credits his fraternity involvement with shaping his personal and professional growth.

• University: Auburn University
• Major/Area of Study: Pre-Business
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Emily Taylor