Meet this year’s Teresa Harris Guthrie Student Worker Award winner
The Teresa Harris Guthrie Award is given annually to an outstanding student employee who has made a positive impact on the Division of Development & Alumni Relations at UGA through the demonstration of one or more DAR values: Servant Leadership, Innovation, and Commitment. The winner receives a framed certificate and $500 funded by the Teresa Harris Guthrie Memorial Fund.
The award was established in memory of the late Teresa Harris Guthrie, a DAR employee. Her smile, outgoing personality, and endless positive attitude made Teresa a joy and a comfort to be near. Her co-workers, family and friends raised money to create this award in memory of her dedication and mentorship to the students who worked with her.
Griffin Dunn received the 2024 Teresa Harris Guthrie Award. Here, we get to know him a bit better:
Please explain your job and who you serve in the division.
My job as the videography intern for the UGA Career Center focuses on creating entertaining, informational and engaging content that informs students of resources and events. I am responsible for making relevant, short-form videos for social media along with long-form videos for presentations, websites, and just about anything else!
What was it like interviewing for that position?
While the interview process was intimidating, it was an encouraging and educational experience. This was the first “adult” job that I applied for, so being treated as an adult and a professional made me confident that this was a team I wanted to be a part of.
How have you balanced academics, student teaching, extracurriculars and work?
I have been able to develop a healthy work-life balance largely through the encouragement and guidance of my supervisors. My academics have always been prioritized along with my mental well-being and for that, I am incredibly grateful.
Did the student employee opportunity match your expectations?
My time with the UGA Career Center has exceeded my expectations. It has been one of the most welcoming and supportive environments to work and grow in. I am grateful for the creative freedom that I have been trusted with to make the best videos that I can, and I’m being paid to work on campus!
What has been most surprising about your work?
I have been most surprised by the growth that I have been able to see in myself as both a professional and videographer. I have been able to develop a more consistent workflow and learned more about my own creative process. Largely through the guidance of my supervisor, Jessica McLeod-Waddell, I have seen major improvements in my organization, timeliness and professionalism. I have learned way more than I ever thought I would in this position.
What would you tell other students considering a student employee position with DAR?
You should absolutely apply! Working with DAR gives you the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than yourself. If you want to be in an authentic, purpose-driven environment then this is the place for you!
