Jack Terrell, Junior
Major: International Business & Economics
Minors: German & Chinese
Junior International Business and Economics double major Jack Terrell has a long list of academic and extracurricular credentials at Appalachian State University
In addition to his major course work, Terrell keeps up his studies in two minors – German and Chinese, is a second year member of the Walker Fellows, works as an intern with the Appalachian’s Sustainability Outreach Program on campus, serves as the student coordinator for the annual Appalachian Energy Summit, and leads initiatives for the International Business Student Association (IBSA).
Terrell has long been a believer in the importance of sustainable practices. When considering universities, Appalachian appealed to Terrell because of its reputation for supporting sustainable practices and incorporating sustainability as one of its core values.
Terrell continues to refine what sustainability means to him through his studies and campus service. “The all-encompassing nature of the term sustainability means supporting many processes, groups and initiatives that work symbiotically toward the common goal of improving our environment, population, and economy,” Terrell said. “Sustainability has a place in all disciplines, relating to our ability to endure while simultaneously preserving our environment.”
Terrell “talks the talk” and “walks the walk.” His continued involvement in various sustainable-focused organizations on campus has had a big impact on the Appalachian community. As student coordinator for the Energy Summit, Terrell recruits approximately 100 students annually from across not only Appalachian’s campus, but the nation - each who has exhibited passion and innovative knowledge toward renewable energy and energy policy. He promotes the Energy Summit and the opportunities offered for students, develops networking opportunities for students and facilitates job and internship placement. One of Terrell’s goals is to create long-lasting professional relationships with the participants as well as the business partners who sponsor the event. Through his role, Terrell collaborates and connects with members of the state legislature, industry leaders, and renowned international energy leaders to facilitate a successful event. “It’s a privilege to engage with corporate sponsors to secure sponsorship funding for the event and coordinate with the Special Assistant to the Chancellor for Sustainability in all aspects of the planning and operation of the Energy Summit.”
He added that the International Business (IB) program through the Walker College of Business has also made a big impact on his Appalachian experience. “It offered me the opportunity to pursue my love of travel and culture through learning Chinese and German through in depth classroom learning and immersive experiences abroad through travel to China and Germany.”
As a member and officer of IBSA, Terrell recently pursued the negotiation for the contract for the organization assume responsibility of Stadium Cleanup after each 2015 football game. Through this effort, IBSA raised funds for student scholarships while supporting Appalachian’s Zero-Waste initiative.
During each clean up session, the students separated recycling, landfill, and compost materials, which could take as long as 15 hours. Though the work was hard, the pay off was great. IBSA raised $3,000, which funded a scholarship they created, the International Business Engagement for Study Abroad Scholarship. Terrell is proud that the IBSA members “relieved the financial burden of students passionate about study abroad opportunities.” IBSA awarded three individuals the scholarship in 2015-2016.
“Our members have gained a new perspective of their part in reducing waste contribution,” said Terrell. “The experience has become a living and learning opportunity for core members as well as the volunteers we’ve trained on the waste separation process.” Each student takes the knowledge back to his or her community, furthering Appalachian’s impact on the environment.
The Walker College of Business boasts a student body full of developing leaders; Junior Jack Terrell is exemplary of Appalachian student leadership and engagement. Terrell is making an impact at Appalachian, and his future is bright.
Sustainable Student Spotlight: Jack Terrell
Sustainable Student Spotlight: Jack Terrell