Most collegiettes™ find it hard to juggle classes, social lives, and one or two extracurricular activities. Kyla Wilkinson, however, seems able to take on many responsibilities and balance them with grace and ease. Kyla is a Biomedical Science major from DeFuniak Springs, Florida and is this year’s Director of The BIG Event. Kyla is also involved in Lamda Sigma, Alpha Epsilon Delta, Alpha Gamma Delta, and is a Camp War Eagle Parent Counselor. Somehow Kyla still finds time to sleep and answer a few questions for Her Campus Auburn!
HC Auburn:What is The BIG Event?
Kyla:The BIG Event is a student-run volunteer day organized in the spring of each year for the students of Auburn University. Our mission is simple: to say “Thank You.” This day enables Auburn students to thank this wonderful community that we live in for putting up with the hassles that go along with living in a college town. For the four (or so) years that we make this community our home, the residents put up with our traffic, noise, fundraising and so much more. This is just one day where we can return the favor for those in need in this area.
HC Auburn:What made you want to become involved with The BIG Event?
Kyla:Service was my passion all through high school and was something I definitely missed in my transition to Auburn. When last year’s directors made organization visits advertising the position of Project Coordinator, they struck a chord with me and I knew I wanted to interview for the opportunity. I was blessed with the chance to serve with 45 other Project Coordinators. I worked on the planning committee and managed several jobsites during last year’s event. After being so close to the process I couldn’t think of anything I would enjoy more than directing the event this year.
HC Auburn:How do you balance your time to include all your activities and responsibilities?
Kyla:That is one of the largest challenges that I face, for sure. For me it comes down to time management, which I continue to improve upon daily. My planner is my lifeline – I wouldn’t know what to do without it! I also couldn’t do half of what I do without my fantastic team of directors, and learning to delegate is imperative. They are so supportive and I can count on them to get their jobs done.
HC Auburn:What advice would you give to other collegiettes™ on campus looking to become more involved?
Kyla:My advice would be to follow your passion and find something you genuinely enjoy. Stay informed. There are so many opportunities to get involved in on-campus that it can be overwhelming. One great resource can be found in those who have participated in an organization before. I think one of the best indicators of finding your place is the people surrounding you. When you enjoy spending time with the people you work with and you find yourself among likeminded individuals, you have probably found where you need to be.
HC Auburn:How can others become involved in The BIG Event?
Kyla: Getting involved in The BIG Event is simple! Volunteer registration opens on our website, aubigevent.com, on February 15th. Here you can register your team to work on a jobsite for March 24th, the BIG day! You can also like us on Facebook (Auburn BIG Event) or follow us on twitter (@aubigevent) to stay updated on the latest news!