Category: Student Features

Will Obar – Dynamic Growth with Dedication

Will Obar’s journey reflects a remarkable blend of diverse experiences and a dynamic approach to both personal and professional growth. His high school years were marked by an extensive mix of activities—from diving and lacrosse to rowing and sailing—along with significant involvement in theater and Boy Scouts, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. This diverse background shaped Will into a well-rounded individual with a willingness to embrace new opportunities.

At Baylor, Will has continued to channel his diverse interests into impactful roles. Most recently, Will’s fraternity participated in All University Sing for the first time since 1979. He had the privilege to serve as Sing Chair for the process. The position challenged his creativity, time management, and perseverance. The success of their act, culminating in a Pigskin bid, was a testament to his leadership and the power of collective effort. This experience underscored Will’s belief in the value of hard work and collaboration, marking a pivotal moment in his college career.

The ProSales program has been crucial in refining Will’s skills, particularly in professional development. In ProSales classes, the structured learning of making sales calls thorough needs identification have directly translated to his success in an internship. His passion for continuous learning, evidenced by his consumption of a wide range of podcasts, has further enriched his networking abilities. Will’s enjoyment of the ProSales community, where he has built lasting relationships and experienced personal growth alongside his peers, highlights his commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic environment. Whether navigating the chaos of a full house with multiple dogs or connecting with clients through his vast array of interests, Will Obar exemplifies a dynamic individual driven by curiosity, dedication, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact….Continue Reading Student Feature – Will Obar

Sage Folsom – Creating Experiences and Searching for Continuous Growth

Sage Folsom’s journey is a remarkable blend of leadership, dedication, and personal growth, marked by her achievements both within and beyond the classroom. As Scout Leader of the pioneering Girl Scout scuba diving troop, Sage’s commitment to excellence is evident in her attainment of Master Diver status—an accomplishment achieved by fewer than two percent of divers. This experience not only reflects her resilience and perseverance but also highlights her capacity to lead and inspire in a demanding and unique setting.

At Baylor University, Sage’s leadership continues to shine through her roles as Ritual Chair of Zeta Tau Alpha and founder of Campus Girl Scouts. Her initiative to establish the university’s first Campus Girl Scout Troop and her efforts in training her successor demonstrate a deep commitment to empowering others and ensuring the troop’s sustained success. Under her guidance, the troop has garnered notable achievements, including the Outstanding New Student Organization award and a highly successful cookie booth fundraiser. These accomplishments underscore her ability to drive meaningful community engagement and foster leadership in others.

Sage’s involvement in the Baylor ProSales program further complements her diverse skill set. The program has refined her time management and goal-setting abilities, which are crucial for her future career in sales. Her passion for helping people and building relationships aligns seamlessly with her career aspirations, and the opportunity to learn from peers and professionals within ProSales has enriched her personal and professional development. Sage’s experiences reflect a well-rounded individual dedicated to continuous growth and making a positive impact in every sphere she engages in….Continue Reading Student Feature – Sage Folsom

Tyler Cobb – Embracing Adventure and Entrepreneurship

Tyler Cobb exemplifies a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit and adventurous enthusiasm that defines his approach to life and career. Growing up in the vibrant environment of Orange County, California, Tyler developed a deep appreciation for outdoor activities and sports. His recent start into endurance sports, marked by completing his first triathlon, is a testament to his drive and commitment. With plans to tackle a marathon, Tyler’s dedication to pushing his physical and mental limits reflects his broader approach to life—embracing new challenges with vigor and enthusiasm.

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Tyler has made significant strides in the entrepreneurial world. During high school and the early years of college, he successfully launched and managed a social media brand, producing video content for prominent athletes, including those in the NFL and NBA. This venture not only showcased his creativity and technical skills but also highlighted his ability to navigate and innovate within the competitive realm of social media. Tyler’s experience in entrepreneurship has been further enriched by his involvement in the ProSales Program, which has refined his professional skills and equipped him with the ability to excel in a sales career.

Tyler’s passion for staying motivated and seeking new challenges is evident in both his professional and personal pursuits. His proactive approach to learning—evident in his use of classroom knowledge in practical settings and his eagerness to seek advice from experienced professionals—demonstrates his commitment to continuous growth. The ProSales program has been instrumental in connecting him with a network of peers and professionals, expanding his horizons and reinforcing his enthusiasm for new opportunities. Tyler’s adventurous spirit and dedication to excellence drive him to constantly seek out and embrace new experiences, positioning him for continued success in his future endeavors….Continue Reading Student Feature – Tyler Cobb

Rachel Platz – Faith and Community

Rachel Platz is a dynamic individual whose journey from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Baylor University in Texas is marked by resilience and a passion for making a difference. As the only one among her five siblings to venture out of state for college, Rachel has embraced new environments and challenges with determination. Her love for sports, despite multiple knee surgeries from basketball, showcases her perseverance. Beyond athletics, Rachel’s culinary skills have been a lifelong passion, with her friends and family often requesting her baked creations for special occasions. An interesting anecdote from her time in Waco involves her quick thinking and bravery in catching burglars, highlighting her proactive and courageous nature.

Leadership and faith are central to Rachel’s identity. This past summer, she led a Bible study for young adults in her hometown, which grew into a significant community gathering. At Baylor, she volunteers with Vertical Ministry and leads a Life Group at Harris Creek Baptist Church, demonstrating her commitment to fostering faith and community. Rachel’s passion for coaching basketball has also shaped her leadership skills, teaching her patience, encouragement, and effective communication. Her involvement in the first Suicide Prevention organization at her high school, Hope Squad, underscores her dedication to supporting others through compassion and active listening.

Rachel’s experience in the ProSales program at Baylor has equipped her with essential skills for a career in sales. The program’s emphasis on communication, networking, and time management has helped her thrive in a competitive and fast-paced environment. Rachel values the community and support within ProSales, where competitiveness is balanced with a genuine desire to see peers succeed. Her father’s mantra, “excellence over apathy,” resonates deeply with her, driving her to give her best in all endeavors. Rachel’s passion for her faith and her commitment to making others feel included are central to her character, making her a compassionate and driven individual ready to make a positive impact in the world of sales….Continue Reading Student Feature – Rachel Platz

Trevor Gaswirth – Embracing Growth Through Challenge

Trevor Gaswirth’s journey is a dynamic blend of personal resilience, passion for learning, and commitment to growth. His story is marked by a transformative period following a spinal injury that left him nearly immobile for over a year. During this challenging time, Trevor channeled his energy into music, teaching himself to play the guitar and piano. This new pursuit became a profound source of personal fulfillment and exemplified his ability to adapt and thrive in adversity. Additionally, his dedication to mastering Spanish over the past eight years has enabled him to bridge cultural gaps and engage in meaningful conversations, further enriching his international business pursuits.

Trevor’s experiences as a counselor at a summer camp in San Diego have imparted valuable lessons in leadership and interpersonal communication. Leading a group of 12 fifth-grade boys for extended hours each day sharpened his skills in clear communication and patience. The close relationships he developed with the campers, evidenced by invitations to their birthday parties, exemplifies his ability to connect with others and create positive, lasting impressions.

In the Baylor ProSales program, Trevor has embraced the challenge of stepping out of his comfort zone, a key lesson that has significantly enhanced his professional and personal life. Despite a challenging start with a less-than-ideal performance in his first competition, Trevor used this experience as a catalyst for growth. His dedication to learning and improvement has led to two consecutive top-10 finishes, underscoring his ability to overcome obstacles and refine his skills. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications has equipped him with the confidence to engage with professionals at all levels, from entry-level employees to CEOs. This newfound comfort in navigating professional interactions is a testament to the practical skills he has gained, which he seamlessly applies to his internships, work experiences, and everyday life. Trevor’s consistent dedication to applying these skills reflects his commitment to continuous improvement and success in all areas of his life….Continue Reading Student Feature – Trevor Gaswirth

Student Feature – Aiden Saint Aiden Saint – Sports, Songs, Sales Aiden Saint is a driven and charismatic individual whose diverse interests and experiences shape his dynamic personality. Growing up in sunny California, Aiden developed a deep love for both the beach and the mountains, engaging in watersports like surfing and snow sports like snowboarding….Continue Reading Student Feature – Aiden Saint

Chloe Kelly – Challenging the Status Quo

Chloe Kelly exemplifies an inspiring blend of passion, creativity, and dedication, fueled by her diverse interests and experiences. Her academic journey through Baylor’s Business Fellows program, combined with minors in Public Relations and Corporate Communication, has equipped her with a unique skill set. Chloe’s love for travel and languages, sparked by a transformative summer in Madrid, Spain, reflects her zest for life and learning. This drive for global perspective and her formative experience growing up in a licensed foster family have shaped her advocacy and empathetic approach to leadership, revealing a deep commitment to improving the lives of others.

Chloe’s leadership roles at Baylor highlight her ability to create and nurture vibrant communities. As Director of First Year Experience for her sorority Tri Delta, she successfully managed new member onboarding and cultivated a fun and inclusive environment. Her current position as Vice President of Membership Experience challenges her to oversee recruitment and retention, manage a team of 17 directors, and lead important workshops on topics like DEI. These experiences have honed her skills in people management, organization, and creating lasting, effective processes. Additionally, her involvement in Baylor’s Student Government as a Student Senator and Junior Class President underscores her dedication to advocacy and student representation.

The ProSales program has significantly contributed to Chloe’s growth, particularly in her approach to value selling and listening. She has learned to prioritize authentic interactions over mere transactional exchanges, applying these lessons both in sales and in her personal relationships. Her role in mentoring, first as a mentee and now as a mentor, has deepened her appreciation for the program’s culture of support and guidance. Chloe’s creativity shines through her work in public relations, from managing social media for influencers to pro-bono work with non-profits. As a Student Ambassador for the Hankamer School of Business, she passionately shares her Baylor experience with prospective students weekly, embodying her commitment to create a lasting impact at Baylor. Chloe’s blend of creativity, leadership, and advocacy makes her a remarkable asset to any community she is a part of….Continue Reading Student Feature – Chloe Kelly

Lachlan McGregor – Serving by Leading

Lachlan McGregor exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and leadership through his diverse roles and relentless drive. As the host of a podcast at Baylor University, he brings to light the unique stories of students and staff, covering a wide range of topics from athletic achievements to personal transformations. With 22 episodes under his belt, Lachlan has created a platform that celebrates resilience, growth, and transformation, offering inspiration and insight into the diverse experiences within the community. His ability to delve into these personal journeys and share them with a broader audience highlights his commitment to making a meaningful impact in his community.

In addition to his podcasting endeavors, Lachlan serves as the Vice President of his fraternity, where he leads and mentors over 100 young men. This role has allowed him to organize events, guide his peers towards their goals, and represent his chapter to the broader community. His leadership style is adaptive, shaped by feedback from mentors like Dr. Dixon and his peers, helping him to continuously improve and bring out the best in himself and those around him. Lachlan’s dedication to his fraternity showcases his commitment to fostering a supportive and goal-oriented community.

Lachlan’s passion for organization and efficiency is evident in both his personal and professional life. He meticulously plans his day, balancing tasks such as emails, calls, and meetings, while also making time for the gym and social activities. His internship experience has sharpened his prospecting skills, enabling him to effectively contact and engage with people, even when their information is hard to find. Lachlan’s ability to work collaboratively on challenging projects with like-minded students further underscores his driven nature and his desire to push boundaries and achieve excellence. Through his various pursuits, Lachlan McGregor continues to inspire and lead by example, making a lasting impact on members of his community….Continue Reading Student Feature – Lachlan McGregor

Audrey Williamson – Passion with Perseverance

Audrey Williamson is a dynamic individual whose love for people, travel, and personal growth shapes her journey. Havina double-major in Professional Selling and Marketing, Audrey has immersed herself in diverse experiences that highlight her passion for connection and exploration. Her enthusiasm for wake surfing and water activities reflects her vibrant personality. What’s even more fascinating is her ability to solve a Rubik’s cube while wake surfing, which again showcases her playful yet determined nature. Audrey’s passion for travel has taken her on mission trips to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Puerto Rico, where she has made meaningful contributions to communities in need. Her time living in Costa Rica during her youth and studying abroad in Singapore has given her a global perspective that she brings into her personal and professional life.

Audrey’s college experience has been enriched by her involvement in track and field and Greek life. Walking onto the track team as a freshman and earning a partial scholarship by her sophomore year is a testament to her hard work and dedication. As a team leader, she has learned valuable lessons in perseverance and professionalism, mastering the art of transitioning from track practice to ProSales events with grace. Audrey’s participation in Kappa Kappa Gamma has also been a significant part of her college journey, where she has formed lifelong bonds and experienced the joy of living with her sorority sisters. These experiences have not only shaped her character but also instilled in her a sense of community and belonging.

Through the ProSales program, Audrey has gained confidence and developed essential skills that have propelled her forward in her career. The hands-on experiences and opportunities to engage with executives have given her a clear understanding of the professional world and how to navigate it effectively. The rigorous training and supportive environment in ProSales have prepared her for real-world challenges, as demonstrated during her internship at PwC, where she excelled in applying sales techniques and building relationships. Audrey’s passion for connecting with people and her belief in the power of communication make her well-suited for a career in sales, where she can continue to build meaningful relationships and make a lasting impact.
…Continue Reading Student Feature – Audrey Williamson

Preston Jones – Leading others through Excellence

Preston Jones’s broad interests and involvement in campus and community activities reflect his dynamic approach to life and career. With a major in Finance and a commitment to Corporate Innovation, Preston has pursued a broad range of hobbies that enrich his personal and professional life. From scuba diving and skiing to building intricate Lego sets and playing the drums, his enthusiasm for varied activities displays his dedication to excellence and creativity. His involvement in sports and musical theatre during his formative years further highlights his ability to balance multiple passions and interests effectively.

In his role as a student ambassador and Executive Chairman of the Hankamer Student Organization, Preston has demonstrated a profound commitment to leadership and community engagement. His role in these organizations has allowed him to connect with a broad network of students, faculty, and industry professionals. His leadership in creating a popular Instagram account for the business school and his involvement in the highly selective B.E.S.T. program showcase his ability to drive impact and foster communication within the Baylor community. Also, serving as a community group leader through his local church has given him the opportunity to mentor and guide students, showing his dedication to personal growth and community service.

The Baylor ProSales program has significantly contributed to Preston’s professional development, teaching him the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and navigating challenging situations. His initial “all-or-nothing” mindset evolved into a more collaborative approach, allowing him to excel in competitions and assignments by leveraging the support of his peers and mentors. Preston’s diligent work ethic, passion for personal growth, and gratitude for the guidance of mentors like Dr. Dixon further reflect his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in both his professional and personal endeavors….Continue Reading Student Feature – Preston Jones