We’ve been so lucky to have some incredible women on our team this year. While we are so sad to see our seniors go, we have learned so much from each of them and we know without a doubt that they are going to create such an impact on our world. HC UFL is focused on building a community and creating the best content for college women, and these women have achieved this and so much more. Our Campus Correspondents have done an amazing job making our chapter grow into what it is today, and each staff member has also played such an influential role in creating content and promoting positivity. Read below to take a moment to get to know each of our seniors!
Darcy Schild
What degree(s) (and specializations, minors etc.) will you be receiving?
Bachelor of Science in Journalism (Minor in Sociology)
Why did you join HC UFL, and what has it taught you?
I first discovered the HC UFL website as a high school senior when I was doing research online about UF and its student publications. I instantly fell in love with the magazine and knew it was something I should apply for if I ended up at UF (which, obviously, I did)! I joined the team as a freshman on the PR/Events team and later was a writer and features editor before applying to be EIC/Co-CC my junior/senior years. When I first joined, I expected to get valuable experience in all realms of digital media, but I ended up learning so much more — i.e. how to manage a team of 50 to60 people, how to stay poised even during stressful times, how to delegate projects and how to collaborate effectively with a co-leader.
What are some of your favorite HC UFL memories?
I loved hosting Her Campus sponsored events on our campus, like the Her Campus Tour and L’Oréal Paris Glam Tailgate Tour. Those events were always long days — but it was amazing to work on such large-scale campaigns and engage with the UF community, while representing Her Campus. Also, some of our meeting workshops and activities, like our Caption Bootcamp, were so much fun to plan and see come to life. I also have just loved getting to know all our team members, and seeing the writers and editors grow over time has been so rewarding and meaningful.
What other involvement at UF have you had?
Outside of HC UFL, I spent a few semesters writing for The Alligator as an opinion columnist and contributing writer, and I have also been an Ambassador for the College of Journalism and Communications, where I led tours of the CJC for prospective students and families and helped with alumni outreach events and student tutoring services. I’m also a sister of Phi Mu and have loved the experiences and friendships I’ve gained from my chapter.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus or around Gainesville?
Nothing beats Plaza of the Americas on a sunny day, when the light shines through the Spanish Moss trees and the plaza is filled with people eating Krishna lunch, talking and lounging. Beyond campus, Satchel’s Pizza is one of my all-time favorite Gainesville spots (both to eat and to admire the fun decor).
Why do you think UF was the right choice for you?
One of the main reasons I came to UF from out-of-state was for its amazing journalism program. After attending a summer camp for high school students through the UF College of Journalism and Communications, I fell in love with the CJC and UF as a whole. I knew I wanted to be at a big school with a lot of opportunities, resources and a diverse campus community.
What will you be doing after you graduate?
I’ll be moving to New York City and starting my career as an Editorial Fellow at INSIDER and Business Insider, where I’ll be writing for the lifestyle verticals of both websites. I’m beyond excited for this next step — it honestly still doesn’t seem real!
Is there anything you wish someone would have told you about college?
People definitely *did* tell me this, but I think it’s important to reiterate for incoming students. Especially at the beginning of college, it’s OK to not “do it all” — it’s fine to skip out on things you don’t want to go to, and you don’t have to be involved in everything that remotely interests you the second you start finding your way around campus. Work hard, but only put your time and energy into endeavors, activities, opportunities, etc. that really excite you and will bring you closer toward your goals. I feel that I’ve grown a lot over the past four years and have formed amazing relationships, but it did not happen all at once or even during my first year.
What are all of your socials? (So all of us can follow your journey!)
Twitter: @darcyschild / Instagram: @darcy_schild
Nicole Akerman
What degree(s) (and specializations, minors etc.) will you be receiving?
Masters of International Business
Why did you join HC UFL, and what has it taught you?
I joined HC UFL because I wanted to tap into my creativity– I began as a PR/events team member my sophomore year, and have transitioned into the CC role. HC UFL has taught me how to be even more comfortable with myself– being surrounded by such talented young women and having the opportunity to help and nurture other women as they navigate their interests and passions has been so rewarding.
What are some of your favorite HC UFL memories?
Her Campus Tours, monthly photoshoots, socials
What are some of your favorite UF memories? What will you miss the most?
Meeting my best friends! College taught me so much about myself, where I see myself headed in my career and who I wanted to surround myself with. From football games to ladies’ nights, I couldn’t have asked for a better college experience at the University of Florida.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus or around Gainesville?
Karma Cream, Plaza of the Americas (Krishna lunch)
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
I encourage freshmen to broaden their horizons and explore any and all opportunities — from unique classes to organizations and new places on campus.
What are all of your socials? (So all of us can follow your journey!)
@nicoleakerman on Instagram
Sabrina Ochoa
What degree(s) (and specializations, minors etc.) will you be receiving?
Psychology minor in Event Management
Why did you join HC UFL, and what has it taught you?
To be a part of a group of empowering women!
What are some of your favorite HC UFL memories?
Repping these awesome brands in our tabling events.
What does being a woman mean to you?
Being a woman means being an excellent leader who paves the way for others behind her.
Who is one of your biggest role models?
AOC! And my amazing friend Laura Uribe.
What other involvement at UF have you had?
IRHA, Honors Student Assistant, Intern at the O’Connell Center, Assistant Logistics Director of TEDxUF, Hispanic Heritage Month, MLP, Delta Nu Zeta!
What are some of your favorite UF memories? What will you miss the most?
I’m going to miss the friends I’ve made.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus or around Gainesville?
I love the Hub, but really enjoy hanging out in Plaza too.
Why do you think UF was the right choice for you?
Financial, the perfect distance from home, amazing event program!
What will you be doing after you graduate?
Hopefully a Disney Events Internship (should know by next week).
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
Always shoot your shot! You never know what doors might open if you just take a chance.
What are all of your socials? (So all of us can follow your journey!)
@sabochoa on Insta!
Kayla Lane
What degree(s) (and specializations, minors etc.) will you be receiving?
Bachelor of Science in Public Relations minor in health promotion
Why did you join HC UFL, and what has it taught you?
I joined my freshman year to gain experience and stayed ever since because of the awesome women I met!
What are some of your favorite HC UFL memories?
My first HC tour was definitely a day to remember! Watching such a big event come together with the smaller team we had was amazing.
What does being a woman mean to you?
Being a woman is being authentically and unapologetically you.
Who is one of your biggest role models?
Drew Barrymore; she is so herself and is so beautiful inside and out while doing it.
What other involvement at UF have you had?
JCA, AMP mentor, FMSA, also working at Tijuana Flats
What are some of your favorite UF memories? What will you miss the most?
My favorite memory isn’t something exact, but I have enjoyed watching myself grow and finding my true self throughout my time here.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus or around Gainesville?
Beque Holic and the AHA lab!
Why do you think UF was the right choice for you?
Coming from a family where college isn’t the norm, things can be very difficult sometimes. UF did a great job in making sure I get comfortable.
What will you be doing after you graduate?
Hopefully traveling around the U.S. to find my perfect job!
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
Don’t be scared to be yourself! You’ll regret hiding later on.
Is there anything you wish someone would have told you about college?
Be open!
What are all of your socials? (So all of us can follow your journey!)
Instagram: kaylabriannnn
Although you all are graduating, we will always hold a special place for you in our hearts. I know personally that my life has been changed for the better just learning from you all and being inspired by your hard work and passion for women. Never forget what you have learned and who you have become. We are all rooting for you. You will always be a Her Campus UFL team member at heart, and we cannot wait to see what things you accomplish in your professional and personal lives. A bittersweet, HCXO!