Kara M. Smith

Empathetic and driven Social Work graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) and a Minor in Women and Gender Studies. Prepared to utilize academic knowledge, leadership experience, and interpersonal skills to make a meaningful impact in a Social Work role. Highly committed to community empowerment, social justice, and supporting individuals facing personal and systemic challenges. Committed to ongoing learning and professional growth to effectively serve diverse populations.

After a brief academic break, I am committed to pursuing a Master's in Social Work (MSW) to deepen my knowledge and expertise in social services and further my ability to create meaningful change in the community.

• Impact Scholar - North Carolina State University
• Honors Graduate - Southeastern Community College
• Summa Cum Laude - Whiteville High School

• Impact Scholar, North Carolina State University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, 08/2021 - 12/2023, Selected for a prestigious role that blends academic excellence with hands-on community involvement, Led and participated in initiatives to promote social justice, equity, and inclusion on campus, Contributed to policy discussions on systemic change and social empowerment within marginalized communities
• Teen Miss Purple Ribbon Columbus County, The Purple Ribbon Pageant, Columbus County, NC, 06/2020 - 06/2021, Led fundraising campaigns for Cystic Fibrosis research, organized community toy drives, and mentored youth in the community, Awarded 'Most Active' for completing over 100 volunteer hours, including organizing events for UNC Children's Hospital, Advocated for increased awareness and support for families affected by Cystic Fibrosis
• National Honor Society, Whiteville High School, 10/2018 - 05/2021, Vice President (2021): Helped lead meetings and oversaw community service projects, Service Project Manager (2019-2020): Coordinated school-wide volunteer initiatives and events focused on community outreach and social responsibility
• Kindness Rocks Project, Whiteville High School, 10/2018 - 05/2021, Co-founded and led the school chapter of the Kindness Rocks Project, fostering positivity through art and inspiring messages shared within the local community, Managed logistics for rock painting sessions and led community outreach efforts, including donation drives
• Future Farmers of America (FFA), Whiteville High School, 10/2017 - 05/2021, Awarded Greenhand Degree for early leadership and active participation in the community, Recognized with the PALS Award for contributions to outreach efforts aimed at young children in the community
• Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Whiteville High School, 10/2017 - 05/2021, Participated in health-related service activities, including blood drives, health fairs, and wellness programs, Strengthened leadership and organizational skills while pursuing career goals in healthcare