Name: Mallory Parke
Year: Sophomore
Major: Pre: Family Human Services
Hometown: Jackson, CA
This super collegiette is an inspiration because of her dedication and hard work. Mallory works two jobs to pay for her rent and tuition while maintaining her schoolwork and upholding a spot on the Dean’s list. While she supports herself and her education completely, she continues to do volunteer work and still have time for a social life. This girl can do it all! Meet superwoman Mallory Parke!
HCO: Where do you work?
Co-Op Family Center and Fresh Marketcafé in the Global Scholars Hall.
HCO: What are your duties there?
At Fresh I’m a barista, so I make coffee and smoothies for the residence there. At the Co-Op Family Center, I am a teacher’s aid. I support the lead teacher and try to be a positive role model for the kids.
HCO: What made you want to get into Family and Human Services (FHS)?
There are so many reasons why! I’ve always wanted to do something that makes a difference. I’ve volunteered with kids with autism, and after that I knew it was something that I wanted to pursue.
HCO: What demographics do you want to work with in the FHS field?
As of right now I’m interested in special education, especially autism because I have the most experience with that area. But lately I’ve been interested in working with troubled youth, specifically juvenile delinquents to help turn their lives in a positive direction before it’s too late.
HCO: How do you balance school, work and volunteering while maintaining a social life?
Sometimes I don’t know. I guess just time management. My priority is always school first. I just make sure I stay on top of my work. I’m also lucky to have a supportive boyfriend and friends. But I always make time to relax and have fun because that is important too!Â
HCO: What do you like to do in your free time?
I always make time every term to take a dance class. It’s always been a passion of mine since I was 3 and I love it. I also like to cook recipes I find on Pinterest!
HCO: What dance class are you taking this term?
This term I’m taking street hip-hop!
HCO: What advice do you have to other students who are supporting themselves?
Always have time for yourself and make sure you’re not doing more than you can handle. Make sure you have supportive friends to talk it out with when things get hard.