Name: Bailey Arrendale
Year: Junior
Major: Accounting
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Courtesy: Bailey Arrendale
Her Campus (HC): What made you choose FSU?
Bailey Arrendale (BA): When I toured Florida State, I felt like I would be more of an individual and less of just a number among thousands of students. I could already see all of the incredible opportunities that I would be offered here. It already felt like home!
HC: What organizations are you involved in?
BA: I am the Scholarship Chair for Chi Omega, and the Family Relations Chair for Dance Marathon at FSU.
HC: When did your affinity for Dance Marathon begin?
BA: Strangely enough, I didn’t participate in Dance Marathon my freshman year. When I went to visit my friends that were participating in the event, I immediately saw how much I was missing out on. At the beginning of my sophomore year, I applied for a captain position on the Family Relations team. After having that amazing experience, I knew I wanted to be even more involved, which led to me applying for the executive board, which I am fortunate enough to be a part of this year.
HC: What exactly does the Family Relations Chair do?
BA: I’m the liaison between Dance Marathon and our local Miracle Families. Throughout the year, I plan events with the families and then I am also responsible for planning and decorating the family room at the marathon. This past week we walked in the homecoming parade, and we are also going to the Chattanooga game on the 21st. In my position, it’s important to keep these events going throughout the year. We really want the families and the community to know that our organization is a year-long cause, not just one weekend!
Courtesy: Bailey Arrendale
HC: How do you think holding that position has impacted you?
BA: It has definitely enhanced my leadership skills, and shown me that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible. Two years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined that I would be where I am today, but I am so thankful for this experience and all it’s given me. It can be hard to find your place in a school with so many students, and Dance Marathon definitely gave me that niche.
HC: What’s been the most rewarding aspect of DM so far?
BA: Definitely all of the people I have met and have had the honor of working with. I love being united by the same cause with 300 of the most dedicated and passionate students on this campus. Of course, getting to form relationships with the Miracle Families is immensely rewarding as well. It’s so humbling to hear them tell us that our efforts are making a difference in the lives of their children and so many others.
HC: When did you know that Chi Omega was the sorority for you?
BA: It was hard choosing one place that I would call home for my four years, but I think their preference ceremony was the one that I connected with the most. I definitely felt the most at home when I was at Chi O!
HC: And next year you’re going to be a recruitment counselor; what made you want to become one?
BA: I had heard such great things about being a recruitment counselor and how it truly shapes you as a leader, so I didn’t want to miss out on the experience. I looked up to my Rho Gamma so much during recruitment week, and I want other women to be able to do the same with me. Recruitment Counselors give the first impression of Greek Life to the Potential New Members, and I want to make sure they have a positive image of our community and feel empowered to join it and get involved.
HC: Looking back on your college career, do you think that joining a sorority has changed its course?
BA: Absolutely. I likely wouldn’t have known about Dance Marathon if it weren’t for Chi O, nor would I have been pushed to get involved by my sisters. Joining a sorority opened so many doors for me and has provided such a great support system in all aspects of my life.
Courtesy: Bailey Arrendale
HC: You’re very enthusiastic in your dedication to this school and community; how do you maintain this attitude with everything you have going on?
BA: Definitely with the help of my friends and family. It’s easy to get overwhelmed between school, work and extracurriculars, but my support system keeps me grounded. When I’m stressed, I remember that our efforts with Dance Marathon are making a huge impact in the community, and the long nights of studying will hopefully pay off with a successful career one day.
HC: Do you have any career aspirations or goals for after you graduate?
BA: After I graduate, I’ll either go to graduate school or start studying for the CPA exam. After that, I’ll hopefully work for a large accounting firm in a big city! I would also love to do accounting or financial work for a nonprofit organization like Children’s Miracle Network.
HC: What or whom do you look to when you’re feeling the pressure?
BA: I’m very close with my parents and usually call my Dad when I’m feeling a lot of pressure. He usually brings me back to reality and reminds me that it’s natural to feel overwhelmed sometimes.
HC: What’s your favorite song to jam out to at the moment?
BA: I feel like a middle school girl saying this, but anything from Justin Bieber’s new album. It’s amazing!
HC: Favorite place to eat in Tallahassee?
BA: Tally Thai & Sushi! I would eat sushi all day, everyday if I could.
HC: What advice would you give to someone who is looking to become more involved in either a sorority or other organization?
BA: Be yourself and be passionate! Don’t do things just to put them on your resume because then you’ll resent attending meetings and being so busy all the time. I highly encourage everyone to find an organization they love and share similar values with. You’d be surprised how much you can grow when you’re surrounded by people that believe in you.
HC: Do you have any words or verses you live by?
BA: I’ve always liked the phrase “lead by example.” It’s so important to be a respected leader that listens well and is open to the opinions of others. Leaders should inspire the people that they lead, because their actions will reflect those of their leader. I learned this through the people that have lead me in college, and I try to live by it in my leadership roles.