“The university’s commitment to academic excellence, both inside and outside the classroom, made it an ideal fit for me.”
Fast Facts
- Big family: Has five siblings
- School spirit: Was a torchbearer for New Student Convocation
- Organized: Has never lost her FSU Student ID
- Model UN: Won first place with the FSU Model U.N. team
- Musician: Plays the clarinet
Gladine Lamarre is a motivated Florida State University student who has dedicated time to helping her community through volunteering, leadership and research opportunities.
Lamarre is an ambassador for FSU’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) program and has experience working in the Capitol for a state representative.
As part of the Honors in the Major program, she is conducting a literature review on the effects of the prison system on prisoners and society. She received an IDEA grant for her research and presented it at the President’s Showcase of Undergraduate Research Excellence.
In her free time, Lamarre volunteers with the International Rescue Committee, an organization which seeks to help refugees adjust to their new homes. Lamarre also volunteers with her church, Every Nation Tallahassee, where she serves as a leader, greeter and teacher.
Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?
Florida State University was my top choice because it stood out as the best in the state. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, both inside and outside the classroom, made it an ideal fit for me. Being admitted into the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) program was a factor in my decision as I knew it would provide first-generation students like me with financial assistance and an environment necessary to achieve personal academic goals.
In addition, FSU’s College of Criminology & Criminal Justice, recognized as the top program in Florida, aligned with my aspirations to attend law school. The university’s proximity to the State Capitol and headquarters of various departments provided me with opportunities to prepare for my future career.
FSU’s campus and school spirit made it feel like home from the start. I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.
What academic achievement are you most proud of?
One of my most significant academic accomplishments at FSU was participating in the Honors in the Major program, where I conducted a systematic literature review on the impact of solitary confinement on recidivism and social outcomes. This research focused on how our prison systems may adversely affect individuals and, in turn, society.
My perspective was shaped by both classes I took and my experience working at the Capitol, where in one instance my state representative advocated for clean drinking water in prisons. This opened my eyes to the issues of oversight and compassion in the prison system and the importance of advocacy and reform. I was honored to receive an IDEA Grant to support my research and present at the President’s Showcase of Undergraduate Research Excellence. This opportunity allowed me to connect with one individual who had been through solitary confinement and another who worked in a prison and witnessed its effects.
How have you made an impact on your community?
During my time at FSU, I have been committed to serving the community through leadership and volunteer roles. Since fall 2021, I have volunteered at Every Nation Tallahassee, a church dedicated to supporting a variety of people such as college students, individuals with sickle cell disease and the elderly among other local community members. Seeking to create a welcoming environment, some of my roles in volunteering include leading Bible studies, teaching children’s church and serving on the worship team.
I have also volunteered as a mentor with the International Rescue Committee, an organization whose mission is to help refugees rebuild their lives. As a mentor, I had the opportunity to work with two teen refugees in establishing a sense of normalcy in their new environment. By helping them learn English, navigate school and explore local opportunities, I welcomed them to our community.
Lastly, I served as a CARE Ambassador, supporting first-generation college students in their transition to university life. As an ambassador, I provided resources, a safe space and a support system to help them succeed in navigating the challenges of being the first in their families to attend college. By ensuring they feel supported and equipped to thrive at FSU, I contributed to their academic and personal growth.