This week Her Campus Auburn got the chance to check in with Danielle Lowe from Madison, AL. She is an Environmental Design major and current President of the Mariners. The Mariners is a great organization that gives back to the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) and serves as a support team for the young men and women that serve the U.S. To learn more about how you can get involved just continue reading!
HC Auburn: What organizations are you involved in on campus?
Danielle: I am currently President of the Mariners, Assistant Photo Editor at the Auburn Plainsman, College of Architecture, Design, and Construction Ambassador, and involved with the American Institute of Architecture Students.
HC Auburn: How did you first get involved with the Mariners?
Danielle: My freshman year, my then boyfriend (now fiancé) had just started his career with the Naval ROTC on campus and I was looking to get involved on campus. His “big sister” in the Mariners happened to be the President and told me to come by the table at O-Days. My best friend had to coax me a little because I was intimidated by the uniforms, but we went over to the table, got some information, interviewed, and now we are President and Vice President! It is amazing how things have changed!
HC Auburn: What exactly do the Mariners do?
Danielle: We are the official hostesses of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. The chapter in Auburn is our Alpha chapter and we are currently in the process of starting more. We aid the Midshipmen in the Unit with service projects and events, such as the Amphibious Warrior Mud Run held every spring and attending and participating in the Marine Corps Marathon in the fall. We have a program where the Mariners are “big sisters” to some of the Midshipmen in the Unit. This means we put notes and treats in their boxes, get to know them, and help them to get accustomed to the NROTC Unit and Auburn. We also complete service projects for the community as well as fundraising for social events for the Mariners and Midshipmen.
HC Auburn: What has been the most rewarding part of being a part of the Mariners?
Danielle: I love being a part of an organization that gives back to those who give so much for our country. These men and women have a tough job and I am proud to be able to support them. I have made friends not only in the Mariners, but in the Unit as well. We are a family who supports one another and the connections we have made will be with us forever. I couldn’t be more proud of the impact the Midshipmen make and the Mariners who support them!
HC Auburn: How can others become more involved in this organization?
Danielle: You can visit our website, http://www.auburn.edu/mariners, and there you will find contact information as well as information on our events and our organization!
The Mariners, giving back to the Wounded Warrior Project at the AU Mud Run!
Supporting our au-mazing football team!
A group picture of all the Mariners.