Meet Gaby White ’27

Gaby White '27
Major: Economics
Minors: Computer science and data science
Hometown: Dallas, Texas

Why did you choose to come to W&L?

I chose W&L because of the atmosphere that's cultivated here. Everywhere I looked, I saw students working, chatting with friends or meeting with professors. The environment felt collaborative rather than competitive, but I could also tell that people would push me to grow and become a better person. That sense of community was palpable. The second I stepped on campus, I knew this was going to be my home for the next four years.

Have you discovered a course or topic that you didn't expect to study when you first came to W&L?

When I arrived, I planned to major in politics and strategic communication with a minor in law, justice, and society. But in the fall of my sophomore year, I took an introductory computer science course to fulfill an FDR (Foundation and Distribution Requirements). Computer science was the subject I had sworn I'd never touch, yet I loved it after just a few classes. Professor Lu was so helpful and encouraging that I felt confident pursuing it beyond that one course. Now I'm close to completing my minor and enjoying every minute.

Where is your "home" on campus?

My home on campus is Student Affairs. The staff and organizations I've been involved with there (Residence Life, FYOC, FYE-100 and Panhellenic Council) have shaped my W&L experience more than anything else. They've given me opportunities to grow as a leader, challenged me to think about the kind of impact I want to make and surrounded me with people who are just as committed to supporting students. Dean Leonard jokes that I basically live on the third floor of Commons, and it's true. If I'm not meeting with one of the staff members of Student Affairs, I'm usually just up there building those relationships. Student Affairs has truly become a place where I build my community.

What has been your most impactful experience at W&L, either on or off-campus?

My most impactful experience has been serving as a resident adviser. Supporting first-years during such a formative transition has shown me how deeply I care about others' well-being and success. I see my role not just as ensuring their comfort and safety, but as preparing them for the rest of their college journey. I want my residents to leave the hall with a toolkit of confidence, resilience and community that they can carry with them for life. Watching them grow into themselves, take on leadership opportunities and celebrate their wins has been the most rewarding part of my time here.

Who is your mentor on campus, and how have they helped you develop as a student?
Dean Leah Beard is one of my most influential mentors. I met her the summer before my first year through the virtual AIM Program, where she encouraged us to take advantage of every opportunity available. She always welcomed us to stop by her office, and I've taken her up on that, whether I'm sharing exciting news, seeking advice or just needing someone to listen. Her dedication to guiding first-years inspired me to focus much of my own involvement on the first-year experience, through FYOC, FYE-100 facilitation, Panhellenic Council and being an RA. I admire her example and am grateful for her mentorship every day.

What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class has been Professor Grajzl's Comparative Institutional Economics (ECON 281). He has a talent for pushing students to think beyond the immediate answer, encouraging deeper analysis and creativity. For my project, I explored the relationship between academic freedom of expression, technological innovation and economic progress. I still reference what I learned in this course, and it helped me see economics in a broader light, not just as models, but as a lens to understand institutions and human behavior.

How has W&L helped you develop and pursue your hobbies and interests?
Outside of classes, I love to sing, read books, be outside and drink coffee! I also love to teach myself new skills. W&L offers such a variety of opportunities that I've been able to dive into each of my interests. I host a radio show on WLUR, which connects with my love of music. My passion for the outdoors grew through my Leading Edge trip, Appalachian Adventure. And, in between, I've been able to explore leadership, academics and service in ways I never expected.

What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L?
My greatest accomplishment was receiving the Emerging Leader of the Year award during my first year. It wasn't the certificate or the recognition that made it meaningful, but the realization that I was making a genuine impact here. I still think about that moment in the weeks when I'm stretched thin or solving countless small problems - it reminds me of why I do what I do, and motivates me to pursue opportunities that help me leave W&L better than I found it.

Have you studied abroad during your time at W&L? Where did you go, and how was your experience?
I studied abroad in Cádiz, Spain, during Spring Term of my first year. I was nervous at first, but it ended up being one of the best experiences I've had. I lived with a host family, studied Spanish culture in the mornings and conducted research in the afternoons. I even ended up in a music video while I was there! The immersive experience pushed me far outside my comfort zone, and I came back with a better understanding of myself as a student and a person.

How have your experiences at W&L prepared you for post-graduate success?

The principle of student self-governance has prepared me more than anything else. I've learned how to use my strengths effectively, approach challenges head-on and lead with empathy and compassion. Academic rigor can prepare you anywhere, but at W&L, students are truly entrusted with responsibility and decision-making. That independence has shown me what it means to take ownership and lead with integrity - skills I'll carry far beyond campus.

Who or what inspires you?

I'm inspired by seeing the growth and success of the people around me. Whether it's my residents finding their footing at W&L, women in Greek Life coming together to support local causes or my peers exploring their passions in academics and the arts, I find motivation in helping others realize their potential. Knowing that I can play even a small role in preparing someone for success by giving them encouragement, resources or just a space where they feel supported drives me to put my best effort into everything I do.