Year: Senior
Major: Dual Licensure Program in Elementary Education and Special Education
Hometown: Roanoke Rapids, NC
I met Tomarra Hawkins while on duty as a Student Ranger for the UNCG Police Department (click here to learn more about that program) when she called for an escort from her dorm to the library. Upon meeting her outside, I asked her why she was heading to the library at such a late hour (it was around midnight). People usually call for escorts back to their dorm from the library, not the other way around! Tomarra then proceeded to tell me all the many things she’s involved in here at UNCG during her senior year and I decided to share with the world how well she manages everything she has on her plate! Not only is Tomarra student teaching the majority of each week, she also has a full load of classes, is a part of the Blue Dynasty Dance Team, the Neo- Black Society and Phoenix groups on campus, and works part time.
What got you interested in/made you decide to take on all of these very demanding things?
“A lot of roles I play in life are very demanding and I chose them because they correspond with my personal values. These values include family, respect, love, following your passion, service, and growth. All of these values play a key role in why I choose to maintain interested in such demanding roles.”
How do you manage your time well enough to get all of your responsibilities met?
“I use a planner, google calendar, and to-do lists to ensure that I know what and when things need to be done and to make sure that I have them completed in a timely manner. I also communicate with my family, professors, and peers to ensure that we are all on the same page. This allows them to be aware of what is going on and to help me effectively meet all of my responsibilities.”
Do you have any tips for others who may be having issues with time management?
“I would advise anyone to create an effective system that allows them to organize everything they need to take care of as well as when it needs to be done by. After you have completed forming that system, you must stick to your system which creates your daily schedule. It also helps to reach out to others so that they can help you hold yourself accountable as well as give you resources that could help you manage your time better.”
What is your goal/dream job?
“My goal in life is to continue to support my family as well as accomplish my dream of helping to close the achievement gap by returning home to teach in rural North Carolina. By teaching in rural North Carolina, where the need is greater, I am serving my community in the classroom as well as providing the community as a whole with resources they would not normally have access to.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
“In five years, I see myself not only teaching but also continuing my passion for dance and sports by coaching the school’s volleyball and dance team.” Tomarra Hawkins is definitely someone to admire. Not only does she manage her time extremely well, she is also following her dreams and passions, has a plan for her life, and is taking the necessary steps to get to where she wants to be in life! I’m sure we could all learn a little something from Ms. Hawkins!