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Home / Canes Spotlight / Canes Spotlight: Palmer Braunstein
Palmer Braunstein

Palmer Braunstein

Management

Hometown: Macon, Georgia

Major: Senior management major

Graduating: Spring 2024

Why did you choose to attend GSW?
I was looking for a smaller college where I could have close relationships with my professors. I took one tour of GSW, and I knew that it was the place for me to be. Also, I got the chance to be part of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program.

Please list your University highlights, achievements, leadership and awards.

  • Student Government Association (Freshman Representative, Senator, Justice, and Chair Of Parking Ticket Committee)
  • Student Engagement Team
  • Chi Phi Fraternity (President, Risk Manager, IFC Representative, and Social Chair)
  • President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program (Member and mentor)
  • ENACTUS (member and Risk Manager)
  • Storm Spotter (2022 Rookie of the Year)
  • 2022 Homecoming King
  • 2021 Mr. GSW
  • GSW Marshal
  • Mr. Freshman
  • Dean's List, 4 semesters
  • President's List, 3 semesters
  • Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society
  • Gamma Phi Beta Honor Society
  • Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society
  • National Society of Leadership and Success
  • Marketing Club
  • Student Conduct Board Member
  • Zephyr recruitment team
  • Flag football referee
  • Residence hall desk assistant
  • Black Student Union
  • Latinos United
  • Business Leadership Program

Are you currently receiving any GSW scholarships? If so, which one(s)?
Yes, I'm currently receiving the Charles L. Mix Memorial Fund Scholarship, Alice K Mathis Southwest Promise Scholarship, Rotary SIFE Scholarship - Kinnebrew, Jay Cliett Memorial Kiwanis Scholarship, and G. Stanley Wicker Scholarship.

Why did you choose your major, or what do you love about your major program at GSW?
I chose management to work closely with people. I want to be a leader for the rest of my life and interacting with or managing people seemed to be a good fit for me.

What makes GSW special?
GSW is a place where students can have an impact. In my time here, I've had the opportunity to personally talk with the president of the University, whereas if I had gone to a bigger school, I would just have been another student. I believe GSW gives students more input in their college experience and that's what makes it special to me.

What is a cause you’re passionate about?
Anti-bullying. Growing up I did not have the easiest of time at school nor was everyone nice to me. I really aspire to make sure that other people do not go through what I went through, and I am big on inclusion. No one likes a bully!

What’s your favorite spot on campus and why?
Florrie Chappell Gym. I love how high the ceiling is and how it makes the space feel more open. I walk in there and almost get a reset. The vibe in there is one you cannot find anywhere else on campus.

What have you learned from other GSW students?
That it's okay to be different. I find myself having friends from different backgrounds from me or different even countries. They have taught me to celebrate and appreciate our differences rather than use them as a barrier.

Who is your favorite professor or staff member and why?
Christa Faison. She was always there to guide me through my leadership questions I had. Last year I had an internship with her where she sat me down and truly spoke to me about my potential when I felt at my lowest. She has always been a second mom in my eyes, and I would not be the leader I am today without her.

What have your learned (or are learning) that has made the biggest difference for you?
Leadership is not about getting gratification now. When serving others, you may not get recognition for the hard work you put in, but you still serve and help others because that is what is right. If you do it for the trophies or awards, then you are not being a genuine leader.

What is your plan after graduation?
I plan to work for my fraternity’s national office as a chapter advisor, hopefully traveling around the country guiding and helping undergrads just like me become better men each day.

What advice do you have for incoming students?
GSW is going to be what you make it. If you do not want to be active on campus, you will not have the experience that you want or dream of. Put yourself out there and do things that make you uncomfortable. That’s where you will grow the most.

What is your favorite class and why?
Any communication class I have had with Dr. Ashley Jones. The atmosphere is one where I feel more connected to the learning process, and she understands what it is like to be a college student. A truly refreshing look at higher education.

What is your favorite vacation spot or a memorable trip you’ve taken?
My favorite vacation spot is Flagler Beach in Florida. It is a smaller beach and not as big with tourist and close to my family that lives just north of Daytona. It has been a family favorite of ours since I was a kid.

Posted March 18, 2024