Our 2025-2026 Student Ambassadors
CHS Student Ambassadors serve as student leaders in our college by representing and promoting CHS to both prospective and current students. Student Ambassadors help further the mission of CHS by creating connections with students from diverse backgrounds and interest areas.
Jessica Gallimore
Major/Program:
Speech-Language Pathology
Why did you choose your Program/Major?
My mom is a physical therapist in the Carter County school system. Growing up in an environment that promotes helping people had a huge effect on me, and I knew I wanted to follow a similar career path. When my mom stressed to me just how much speech pathologists are needed in this area, I felt as though it was my calling. While I began my freshman year as a pre-nursing major, Dr. Noland came to speak to one of my classes about the goal of ETSU being the betterment of the Appalachian community I could not get speech therapy off my mind. I made the switch to Rehabilitative Health Sciences with a minor in Communicative Disorders in order to prepare me for graduate school and my future career. I chose ETSU’s SLP program because I knew that home is where my heart is, and I could not be happier with my decision.
When will you graduate?
Spring 2027
Why did you choose ETSU?
ETSU has a welcoming and community-like environment that is hard to replicate. I liked the idea of having smaller class sizes with better access to professors and advisors, and I knew ETSU could provide that. The numerous opportunities that the school supplies were very appealing including honors programs, active clubs, Living-Learning Communities, and several fun and educational events. I also fell in love with the beautiful mountains and greenery the campus lies in, along with the school’s team spirit and involved president.
What is your favorite thing about ETSU?
My favorite thing about ETSU is how interactive and helpful the faculty is. Every professor I have had has been beyond encouraging and seems to genuinely care about my education. Having educators that are supportive of my involvement has made me more confident in class participation and has truly allowed me to shine.
What is your best piece of advice for first-year students?
My best piece of advice for new students is to get involved! College is about growing and experiencing new things, so do not be afraid to put yourself out there. I know that it is easier said than done as I am a bit shy and had a hard time branching out my first few weeks. However, once I started going out of my comfort zone, I realized that no one was out to make me feel embarrassed for participating, and many others felt the same way I did. Once I got past the mental-blockage, I was opened to a world of possibilities that made me seek more. In short, if you see something that you would like to go to or be a part of—do it!
Savannah Larrimore
Major/Program:
Dental Hygiene
Why did you choose your Program/Major?
I have a huge desire to help people understand their oral health connection to overall health.
When will you graduate?
Spring 2027
Why did you choose ETSU?
I chose ETSU because I absolutely love the campus here. It is a stunning campus with an amazing community!
What is your favorite thing about ETSU?
I love Pepper! Seeing her on campus is such a light to my day!
What is your best piece of advice for first-year students?
Find your schedule and where you learn/study best! Mine is in the dining hall (weird, right?). When you're in your best environment to learn, you're gonna do the best you can.
Andrea Stephens
Major/Program:
Rehabilitative Health Sciences/Pre-SLP
Why did you choose your Program/Major?
I chose Rehabilitative Health Science because I knew that I wanted to help people! When I discovered Rehab Health Science I didn’t know what it consisted of. Fortunately for me, ETSU offers students a numerous amount of pre-professional programs that will prepare them for Graduate School. For me, I chose Speech-Language Pathology! I chose this program because I want to one day become a pediatric speech-language pathologist.
When will you graduate?
Spring 2026
Why did you choose ETSU?
There are a number of reasons why I chose ETSU! I loved that ETSU was an affordable, out-of-state option for me. ETSU being a medium-sized school was perfect for me. It gave me a medium-sized campus with a small community feel. Finally, but certainly, not least, ETSU is surrounded by beautiful scenery year-round.
What is your favorite thing about ETSU?
My favorite thing about ETSU has got to be the community. I love being able to see familiar faces while walking around campus. The small-medium class sizes are also a huge plus because students can receive individualized attention. I love that my professors know my face, and I am not just a number. My personal favorite thing here at ETSU is the Farmer’s Market which comes every Thursday in the Fall semester. There you can buy lunch, homemade preserves, clothing, and accessories. The market is also a great place to socialize with friends and meet new people. It's a great way to support local businesses and get a taste of the vibrant ETSU community.
What is your best piece of advice for first-year students?
My best piece of advice for incoming students is to get involved on campus. ETSU has so many clubs/organizations that you can be a part of. These organizations range from Greek Life, Honors Fraternities, athletics, pre-professional-related organizations, and so much more! If you’re not sure about what organization is the best fit for you, attend on-campus events. There are weekly events held on campus for students to enjoy, simply check your email every Monday for an update!
Anna Fink
Major/Program:
Rehabilitative Health Science/Pre-SLP
Why did you choose your Program/Major?
I chose Rehabilitative Health Science because I have a passion for helping others. I want to pursue Speech Language Pathology, and I thought this major was the best way to prepare me.
When will you graduate?
Spring 2026
Why did you choose ETSU?
I chose ETSU because I had such a personal and informative tour of the university. My tour guide was also on the pre-SLP track, and she was very helpful and made ETSU immediately feel like home..
What is your favorite thing about ETSU?
My favorite thing about ETSU is the size. The campus is not so big that it feels like an SEC school, but not small enough to feel like a community college.
What is your best piece of advice for first-year students?
The best piece of advice for freshmen is to get a paper planner and write everything down!
Breanna Thompson
Major/Program:
Kinesiology - Exercise Science
Why did you choose your Program/Major?
I chose Kinesiology as my major because I've always been interested in the healthcare field, but I wasn’t sure which path to take. With this major, I hope to graduate and then pursue a program in Physical Therapy. When I was a sophomore in high school, I tore my ACL playing basketball, which led to a 7-month journey of physical therapy to get my body back into shape. During that time, I spent countless hours with an amazing physical therapist, and it became clear to me that Physical Therapy was the career I wanted to pursue. From there, I researched different degrees and found that Kinesiology was the perfect fit for me!
When will you graduate?
Spring 2027
Why did you choose ETSU?
I chose ETSU for several reasons. First and foremost, I wanted a school where I could pursue both my undergraduate and graduate studies, and ETSU provides that opportunity. With my goal of entering a physical therapy program, ETSU offers the resources and support to help me prepare for the rigorous process of applying and succeeding in graduate programs.
Additionally, the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt right at home. Everyone I’ve met here has been incredibly kind and genuine, creating a welcoming environment. Coming from a very small town with limited opportunities, I was looking for a place that offered a wide range of experiences both academically and socially. ETSU was exactly what I was searching for. The campus provides countless opportunities for involvement, from Greek life and student organizations to leadership programs and volunteer initiatives. ETSU encourages students to connect, grow, and make a difference. These opportunities help create a vibrant and supportive community where everyone can find their place and thrive.
On top of all that, the breathtaking East Tennessee mountains and beautiful scenery surrounding the campus are just an added bonus, offering a perfect backdrop for both studying and outdoor adventures.
What is your favorite thing about ETSU?
My favorite thing about ETSU is the people. I have made some of my closest friends here, who have become an incredible support system. The faculty and staff are also incredibly encouraging and go out of their way to be helpful. This campus truly feels like a home away from home, where everyone is committed to helping you thrive and building genuine connections.
What is your best piece of advice for first-year students?
My best piece of advice is to get involved—whether it’s joining or starting a club, volunteering, attending sporting events, getting involved in SGA, or joining Greek life. ETSU has so much to offer, and getting involved is one of the best things you can do as a first-year student. It can be intimidating to adjust to college life, especially in a new setting, so step out and engage with our campus and community. This is your time to shape yourself into who you want to be, so embrace it. Building a community around what you love will help make your college experience some of the best years of your life.