My name is Taylor Parrish, and I am a current undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Education. Being from Suwanee, GA originally, I was extremely nervous to move out of state to further my educational journey. As showcased throughout this e-Portfolio, my on-campus involvements at USC have made a large university feel so much smaller enabling me to meet people through various organizations, classes, and professional opportunities. Throughout this portfolio, you will see the within and beyond the classroom experiences I have acquired that have shaped my decision to pursue a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, which is what has now informed my commitment to the professional and civic engagement of my workplace and community. Choosing to complete my GLD Portfolio utilizing the Professional and Civic Engagement track has been incredibly meaningful for me. I have dedicated countless hours to leadership roles, non-profit service, my part-time job as a nanny, working at Prisma Richland’s Pediatric Physical and Specialty Therapy Clinic, and my community of supporters and friends. When given the opportunity to showcase these experiences and how my education here at USC has played an instrumental role in developing these opportunities, I knew there would be no better way to conclude my final semester.
Throughout my portfolio you will find three key insights where I explore how “curriculum meets my environment”: Education is Everywhere (1), Treating the Child Not Just Their Diagnosis (2), and The History Beneath Our Feet (3). Within each of these key insights, you will get a glimpse into how a within the classroom experience has led to a beyond the classroom experience that has not only enriched my education but also inspired me to pursue a degree in speech-language pathology, a degree path that aligns greatly with the professional development of the workplace and highlights the importance of civic engagement. Through these key insights I emphasize the importance of valuing your community, the people within it, and the differences that make us all unique. Cumulatively, these various facets reveal how we can hone every persons' identity to create a collective that supports one another in all aspects of who we are.
Below, you will find some additional information and pictures about me. Outside of my academic and extracurricular involvement highlighted throughout my key insights, I have worked as a swim coach for neurotypical and neurodiverse athletes ages 6 months-18 years old. Moreover, I currently work as a part-time nanny for three children who I have been with since my sophomore year which has been an incredibly rewarding job. Additionally, I adopted my dog, Maverick, from City of Columbia Animal Services after being a long term foster for him when he was diagnosed with Parvo as a puppy. I love working out: running, lifting weights, and most of all participating in intramural basketball and flag football! During my free time I enjoy cooking, baking, and reading. I hope you enjoy exploring my e-Portfolio!
