Rhonda Robinson - 2009 STAC Representative - Stateside

Rhonda Robinson E-mail: rhonda5003@yahoo.com
Degree level: Undergraduate
Program: Human Resources Management

Biography

I am a lifelong resident of the state of Maryland, currently residing in southern Maryland.

I am a church girl who started out as a preacher’s kid. I’m very active in my church teaching Sunday School and participating in the choir and the Womens’ Ministry. Recently I found out that I have rheumatoid arthritis and sometimes life really challenges me; nonetheless, my faith helps give me the strength and joy to do all that I need to do.

Several years ago, a friend of mine sent a mass e-mail out asking if anyone had an interest in writing for an online magazine. I have always been a voracious reader and had many times thought that I could probably write a book myself, so I answered her note. After talking with the publisher, I had a lot of doubts about my ability, but I allowed him to convince me to at least give it a shot. Much to my surprise, he loved what I had written and I’ve never looked back. My assigned area was the gospel music industry, and I’ve been blessed enough to interview such luminaries as Dove and Grammy award winners Tremaine Hawkins and Kurt Karr. I also created a Web page to express my thoughts on a variety of subjects and was quite surprised at the responses I received.

Strong, vibrant, intelligent, loyal, friendly, sensitive and stubborn—all of these words describe me, but the most important thing that you should know about me is that "I am more than a conqueror."

Nomination Essay

I would like to serve on the Student Advisory Council because I believe that I can be an effective advocate for other students with respect to presenting their ideas and concerns. As a student at UMUC, I believe that it is up to the students, like myself, to ensure that school officials receive input regarding decisions that will affect the quality of our education. I also believe that it is vitally important that students are informed of matters which will affect the quality of our education, as well as our overall experiences at UMUC. 

I currently hold an appointed office in a work-related advocacy group which has given me a broad understanding of the time and effort required to serve as a member of a group such as the Student Advisory Council. I am prepared to put in the time and effort needed to respond to student inquiries in a timely matter, attend meetings and participate in all activities as needed in order to try to ensure a successful student experience for everyone at UMUC.