Class of 2009, Psychology Major

Ashley spends some of her time on campus as a resident assistant.

Like many first-year students, Ashley Dutridge ’09 entered The University of Findlay with an undecided major and ambitions of exploring the University’s endless opportunities. In less than two years, Ashley has become a psychology major, serves as a resident assistant and has immersed herself in numerous academic courses and extracurricular activities.

However, while Ashley is enjoying her academic accomplishments thus far, she does not necessarily consider them to be her most rewarding experience. Instead, Ashley finds her most satisfying hobby to be volunteering.

“The University of Findlay offers great opportunities for students to become involved, develop friendships and succeed academically,” said Ashley. “Through a few of my professors who advocate civic engagement and service learning, I learned about several different volunteer opportunities in the city of Findlay which I became involved in.”

Ashley enjoys the time she spends with local elementary school kids as a volunteer for the Walking School Bus program.

One of Ashley’s volunteer activities includes the “Walking School Bus” in which she supervises local elementary school students as they walk home from school, making sure they arrive home safely. At the same elementary school, Ashley volunteers for the Helping Our Students to Succeed (HOSTS) Mentoring Program, assisting students with their reading skills, and also serves as a mentor for two fifth-grade students.

“These off-campus activities have helped me apply concepts outside the classroom. My college experience would not be the same without my experiences in the community,” said Ashley. “The University of Findlay has exceeded my expectations and I would recommend it to any student who is looking to be challenged.”

By Diana Musgrave ’08
Communication Major
Arlington, Ohio