Embracing curiosity to accomplish goals and move past setbacks

Embracing curiosity to accomplish goals and move past setbacks

Abby Perkins was nominated by her roommate, whose nomination said:

“Abby deserves to be a recipient of an Aspire! Award for her commitment to unwavering curiosity. She does not passively partake in what sparks her curiosity, she actively works towards accomplishing her goals, creating something new, and embracing what helps her intellectual development. Not only does she reflect curiosity in her own actions and values, she inspires others to embrace a life of curiosity, too. Her inquisitive nature is contagious, and we find ourselves constantly bouncing ideas of one another, regardless of their feasibility.

“What most impresses me about Abby is how she doesn’t let her ideas stay in the mental realm—she brings them into reality. Abby began the student organization GLAX Club at Virginia Tech. GLAX is a common acronym for girl’s lacrosse. It is a student organization whose mission is to provide an outlet for students to de-stress, exercise, build community, and, most importantly, explore their curiosity about athletics in a setting that was accepting of all. Abby wanted to create a welcoming environment that allowed for anyone’s participation—regardless of skill level, gender identity, race, or any other basis. And she did!”

Her nominator went on to say, “Another facet of Abby’s personality is her ability to not let failure suppress her curious nature. I have never once witnessed her become disheartened or feel powerless due to rejection, defeat, or setbacks. Her curiosity is resilient, and her determination never ceases.

When one door closes, she finds a new door to open. For instance, after applying to a business club’s leadership positions and not getting selected, she remained an active member in the organization and found another opportunity—as staff writer for the Collegiate Women in Business Chronicles. She also became one of the main graphic designers for SheHacks and VTHacks and joined the event committee, where she helped organize a prominent, large-scale Hack-a-thon.

“Abby strives for intellectual development in every aspect of her life. She is truly passionate about her major, Business Information Technology, and is always a source of advice for others. Abby is minoring in Spanish and becoming fluent, so that she can better communicate with the Spanish speakers in her life. You can find her practicing her skills with others learning the language, listening to Spanish singers, and watching a wide array of Spanish films. You can even find her exploring her curiosity for the Spanish-speaking world’s culture at salsa lessons and dance nights.”

Abby said, “Being a member of a business club for women and a women's hackathon planning committee has been so empowering and has taught me that I can achieve success in any field!” She gave this advice, “Always live in the moment. It is good to look ahead and plan for the future, but you'll never get this time back again.”