My name is Garrett Westray and I am a senior here at the University of South Carolina pursuing an undergraduate degree in Operations and Supply Chain with a concentration in Business Analytics. I intend to graduate in May 2019 with Leadership Distinction in Professional & Civic Engagement.

As a Columbia native and son of an alumna, I always felt that Carolina was home for me. I often think about if I had strayed away from South Carolina after high school, but Carolina has given me the opportunity to grow professionally and personally. As the flagship University of the State, I knew coming here would put me in the best position to excel in the workplace after graduation.

The four years spent here have gone by quickly, but during my time here I was afforded opportunities that I will be grateful for, for the rest of my life. During my freshman year, I began working in University Housing and formed early connections on campus. Sophomore year followed and I matriculated through the top tier curriculum that the Darla Moore School of Business offers. In my Junior year, I joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and left the country for the first time studying abroad in Germany. As a Senior, I served as a University 101 Peer Leader and made memories that I will never forget.

As it relates directly to Professional and Civic Engagement, the two most prominent activities I took part in was serving as a conference assistant for the Conference Center and interning with Collins Aerospace. The Conference Center gave me the opportunity to advocate for the university and strengthen my hospitality and customer service skills. As a Supply Chain Management Intern with Collins Aerospace, I gained the much-needed experience and skills needed to implement in the workforce upon graduation.

In the remainder of my e-portfolio, you will see Key Insights pertaining to what I learned both inside and outside of the classroom, along with a Leadership Section where I recommend solutions for the University based on these Key Insights.