“I realized after my tour that FSU was the perfect place for me to pursue my educational goals while taking part in the vibrant community.”
Fast Facts
- Welcomes New Students: Is a tour guide for the College of Business
- Family Tradition: Has two other siblings at FSU
- Loves Athletics: Is an intern with Seminole Boosters
- Favorite Animal: Hippopotamus
- Walked the Red Carpet: Has been to the Teen Choice Awards twice
Florida State University marketing student Jaclyn Madson chose FSU because of the school’s academic reputation and welcoming nature. Now, Madson is a James M. Seneff Scholar and uses her time at FSU to give back to the university and Tallahassee community.
Deeply involved in Kappa Delta sorority, Madson engages with fellow sorority members to raise money for local organizations that support children in Tallahassee, such as the Girl Scouts of America, Children’s Home Society and Prevent Child Abuse America.
Her dedication to service led to a nomination for the Dedman College of Hospitality’s Humanitarian of the Year Award.
Why did you choose Florida State University?
The sense of family and welcoming atmosphere on campus set Florida State University apart. The school’s excellent academic rankings and standards captured my attention. After touring the campus and speaking with current students, I felt like I belonged. I was shown around by incredible students of the College of Business and realized that FSU was the perfect place for me to pursue my educational goals while taking part in the vibrant community.
What academic achievements are you most proud of?
I was inducted into the James M. Seneff Scholar program, which selects 16 students in the College of Business to receive one-on-one mentorship, attend meetings with business leaders, travel to learn about different companies and attend experiential learning opportunities.
I was recognized as the Dedman College of Hospitality’s Humanitarian of the Year Award nominee. The award ceremony recognized one student from every college who had been a leader in their philanthropic work. It was an honor.
What community service have you participated in and around FSU?
As president and vice president of events and programming for Kappa Delta, I helped our sorority raise a record-breaking $160,000 for Children’s Home Society of Tallahassee and Prevent Child Abuse America over the last two years. Last year I started a lip sync competition as a new event that could raise more money for our philanthropies, which then became an annual event.
As a chapter, we started volunteering with Children’s Home Society events on the weekends when they needed assistance. This organization works to ensure that every child has a safe, loving and permanent home by providing services like foster care, adoption and support programs. The most impactful event was their Chef’s Taste of Home event in Tallahassee. Volunteering has bonded our organizations and has shown the tangible help that we have been able to provide. I could not imagine my life in Tallahassee without my connection to the Children’s Home Society.
In addition, I have built a strong relationship with the Tallahassee Girl Scouts. Through confidence workshops, card making activities and cookie booth events, I have mentored and empowered young girls to advocate for themselves and enacted positive change in our community.