Culp makes a difference at ESU
Becky Lundblom, ESU Media Relations
Originally published 01:43 p.m., May 29, 2008
Updated 01:43 p.m., May 29, 2008
Though she has only been at Emporia State University since fall 2007, Courtney Culp has already made a difference. So much, in fact, that she is a recipient of this month’s You Make a Difference Award. Culp is a graduate teaching assistant in the Social Sciences department at ESU.
“She has a big heart and sharp wit,” says her nominator. “Courtney is a brilliant young woman. Every time I feel overwhelmed with something and she hears about it, she will not hesitate to try and help build my confidence back up.” It’s this willingness to help and listen that Culp says is most important in making a difference.
“The best advice I can give someone who wishes to make a difference is to listen to people—really listen to them. Just be you and do the best you can,” she says.
Culp says one of her favorite parts about being a GTA is working with students. She enjoys getting to know students and interact with them.
“History is my passion, but it is not for everyone, so I feel fortunate that I am able to convey something I love in a manner they’ll hopefully appreciate and absorb.”
The support she receives from her professors at ESU has helped shape her experience here. She says a professor’s support really can make all the difference in a student’s academic career.
As for her award, Culp says she is honored. “I feel absolutely overwhelmed by receiving this award! I had no idea that what I was doing was really affecting people; I was just being me and trying to be the best person I can be.”