Student Profile: Taylor Whitman

by Lauren Jeanminette

Taylor Whitman, a senior studying Informatics, is the student president of the UL Lafayette STARS Computing Corps student organization. STARS, otherwise known as students in technology, academia, research, and service is a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding current and future computing majors. The program is devoted to the advancement of informatics and computer science majors in the hopes that they become phenomenal professionals in their field.

When did you begin STARS? How did you get started?  
I began STARS around two years ago. Dr. Sonya Hsu, our faculty advisor, helped us start out and helped plan upcoming events and outreach programs.  
   
What is your favorite aspect of STARS Computing Corps?  
The impact that we’ve had on our future Ragin Cajuns. Student from all over the Acadiana area have let us share our passion of computing with them and help them find where they will excel. It's a great feeling to expose others to something so important to me.  
   
What are your duties as STARS president?  
My duties as president is to oversee the general function of STARS, construct all meetings, oversee events, and delegate responsibilities where appropriate. So far, it has been a very rewarding and fun position.  

          Taylor Whitman (middle) with STARS outstanding project award.

Are you in any other groups besides STARS?  
Yes, ACM-W (Association for Computing Machinery for Women), which has been recently approved as a university organization with the help of the STARS founding members.  
   
What do you like most about UL?  
I like the kind atmosphere that the University has. Everyone is friendly and willing to help one another.  
   
How have the services provided by STEP (labs, software, etc.) helped you along the way?  
The STEP labs have been near essential in my college career. I’ve used [almost] every STEP Lab around campus to complete projects and assignments for my courses and STARS projects.  
   
Advice to other students in your major?  
There is one tip I can give. There’s always more to learn. Even if you have been working on something your entire life, there’s always a way to expand your knowledge on any subject.  
   
What do you feel were your biggest accomplishments at UL?  
Becoming the President of STARS was one of the proudest moments I’ve had here at UL. I am proud to guide and mentor future students.    
   
Where are you going after UL?
I am planning to attend graduate school here at the university or at LSU. I am hoping to continue my job in the IT Department at LHC Group and grow with the company.  
   
How have your professors impacted you as a person, as a professional, or both?  
My informatics professors have believed in me from day one. I’ve been inspired by their want to make us the best professionals we can be. I will never forget the impact of their guidance and knowledge that made me the way I am today.