"Go out of your way to support others!"

Our student spotlight is Madison Turner, University of Georgia student, future district attorney, and women's rights activist. We love women who are making a splash in male-dominated fields and are standing up for what they believe in -- thanks for trying to make UGA a rape-free campus and inspiring women everywhere!

1. What's your story? What makes you unique?

I grew up in a small town in West Tennessee before moving to the suburbs of Atlanta during high school. I actually lived in 5 different states before starting college! Everywhere I lived has in some way shaped me to be the person I am today, and I am so thankful for everything that I have learned along the way. I honestly think that moving to a new place where you know absolutely no one is one of the scariest, most rewarding experiences you can have in life!

2. What motivates you?

My father is a retired Green Beret, and both of my grandfathers are retired military as well. Knowing that three of the most important men in my life put their life on the line so that I could grow up in a country with freedom and education is the best motivation I could ever ask for.

3. Who is a hero of yours?

I have been a Taylor Swift fan since her self titled CD debuted in 2006. Growing up, she was always a role model of mine. But this past year, she has become a hero! She has always handled the media and public with grace and class well beyond her years even while serving as a national punchline for her romance interests. She has remained true to herself despite being in the public eye for almost a decade now, and has proven that being the sweet, good girl can pay off. (Quite literally-- she made over $64 million last year.) But the thing I admire most about T-Swift is the way she supports other women in the industry. Very rarely is a star seen being friendly with someone who is considered competition. But Taylor's philosophy is that surrounding yourself with awesome, successful people makes you a better person-- it in no way takes away from your own success. If more young women would take on this mindset, I think it's safe to say that the world would be a much nicer (and less passive-agressive) place.

4. What's your future plan? Your goals?

​I am about to start my senior year at the University of Georgia, and I'm currently working on applying to law school! Right now, my dream career would be working my way to becoming a district attorney. Criminal law is a pretty male-dominated field at the moment, but I think I'm thinking that needs to change.

5. If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?

​If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to go out of your way to support others. The best people I know constantly go out of their way to build up other people and support their friends. Besides, it will make you instantly happier to see a smile on another person's face knowing you were the cause!

6. What is something you feel strongly about (a cause, belief, etc.)?

Sexual assault on college campuses is not only a national issue, but a very real problem at my own university. In 2014, there were 71 rapes reported to University of Georgia Campus Police. So right now, I'm focusing on everything that can be done right here in Athens, Georgia to make our school a rape-free campus. But until every college across the country eliminates sexual assault, this is a cause I will continue to work towards and encourage other people to get involved with as well.

7. What's one of the coolest things you've ever done?

​My sister graduated from medical school a couple of weeks ago, and watching her cross the stage and become an official physician was one of the coolest moments of my life. I've looked up to her since the day I was born, so seeing her achieve her lifelong dream at the age of just 26 makes me more proud than I can even say.