Mentor in his corner

An email signature can be prime real estate, and Terrance White knows that best. With a desire to get into advertising, White, a communication major from the Chicago area, showcases his skills by utilizing it like a résumé.

In the nine total lines of his signature, six are dedicated to his positions in student organizations. The personal branding is helpful while networking, but it’s also reflective of his desire to be involved, build community and seek opportunities to grow.

“I learned from being [a] first-generation [college student] that I have to work a little bit harder and not let up,” he said.

He is a member of the College of Arts and Sciences Academic Affairs Committee and Greek life as president of UD’s inter-fraternity council. White also stays involved with organizations related to his major as podcast manager and advertising associate for student-run Flyer News, and as vice president of UD’s chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America.

At an internship last summer with a small advertising agency, he learned professional and industry skills. He used that experience to get an internship with Energy BBDO, an agency based in Chicago that works with brands like Jack Daniel’s and Orbit gum.

But some of the most important resources to White are the mentors he turns to for guidance and course-correction.

“They’re called advisers for a reason,” he said. “A trusted source, somebody who has done the work before, who knows what they’re talking about — that’s why advisers are good.”

White seeks leadership advice from Heather Parsons, his academic adviser, and Evan Englander, director of fraternity and sorority life. He said both have helped him find his voice and vision while learning to inspire others.

He also finds support from his Flyer News adviser and communication lecturer, J. Frazier Smith, who helps White identify and take hold of good opportunities. 

“If I need motivation or a reason to keep pushing, or if I’m falling behind and I need advice, I go to Frazier,” White said. “He’s definitely going to help you create a plan to get it done.”

No matter the situation, White knows he has mentors in his corner. Their advice and guidance during the last three years have helped him navigate new and challenging situations while also providing him the canvas to draft his own path.

“I think mentorship is good for self-discovery,” White said. “You can discover things you didn’t know you would like, or a fire inside you that you never knew you had.”

 Photos by Sylvia Stahl '18