Outstanding Senior Woman: Receiving honor is 'amazing'

The Outstanding Senior Woman for December 2008 graduation is Allie Haertling, a marketing major from Nashville, Ill.

"I did not expect it at all," Haertling said. "It's an amazing honor. I'm still in a state of shock about it."

Haertling participates in a variety of activities at the University. She serves as a resident adviser and residential college council member for White College. She previously served as president of Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity and is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Murray First United Methodist Church also benefits from her involvement in the children's ministry and choir.

"I'm really involved in not only campus (activities) but also the community," she said.

Haertling studied abroad a semester in fall 2006 in Regensburg, Germany, and interned at the Sherwin-Williams Company in Paducah, Ky.

Participants in the Dec. 13 commencement ceremony have the opportunity to listen to words of wisdom from Haertling, who said she has already changed her speech four times.

"It's very nerve-wracking (to make a speech)," she said. "I enjoy public speaking; what doesn't kill you makes you stronger."

After graduation, Haertling said she plans to join the work force immediately. She starts a full-time position with the Sherwin-Williams Company in Paducah two days after graduation.

Haertling said she won't forget her time at Murray State. She said her memories of life at the University are unforgettable.

"It's been an overall great experience," she said. "I don't regret anything. I'll miss the people the most (and just) going out and having fun."

For students who wish to one day obtain the honor of Outstanding Senior, Haertling offered some suggestions.

"Get involved as much as you can and enjoy it," she said. "Definitely get involved in the community. I love giving back to the community."

No Outstanding Senior Man was selected for December graduation. The Outstanding Senior Man and Woman are selected from those accepted into Who's Who Among Colleges and Universities. Fifty-three seniors were selected as Who's Who honorees this year.

The Outstanding Senior Woman announcement occurred at the Senior Breakfast yesterday, where many seniors received various honors.

Megan Locke can be reached at megan.locke@murraystate.edu.