Lauryn Stallworth
Since beginning her journey at Georgia State, senior Lauryn Stallworth has secured more than 45 scholarships. She’s also created opportunities to share her expertise with other students. In the future, Stallworth hopes to continue her legacy by starting her own scholarship for Caribbean students in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Here, she tells us more.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Can you share a bit about yourself and why you decided to come to Georgia State?
I’m a senior majoring in risk management and insurance on the quantitative risk management track and minoring in actuarial science. I was raised in the Virgin Islands.
I came to Georgia State because I have a lot of family in Georgia, and I wanted to be close to them. Also, Georgia State has great actuarial science and risk management and insurance programs, and I was drawn to the diversity and opportunities.
What organizations are you involved with on campus?
I’m involved with Women in Technology (WIT GSU), a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the underrepresentation and challenges women and girls face in STEM, and am president of the university’s chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma, an international risk management, insurance and actuarial science fraternity. I am also an active member of Project: FLOW (Fulfilling the Lives of Women), a campus organization that assists women who are experiencing period poverty.
How has Georgia State prepared you for success?
My courses at Georgia State have helped me think more critically, conduct research, understand my audience and make connections, ultimately pushing me to do my best and excel. They’ve also taught me about how risk is perceived, managed and mitigated and the principles that apply across various fields. I’ve learned that practice leads to progress, especially in mathematics, which plays a major role in my field of interest. The more I practice, the greater my potential for success. That mindset extends beyond academics.
I completed the university’s WomenLead program, through which I learned how to navigate my path as a woman in a tech-focused field. I’ve come to understand that success doesn’t follow a single formula, and I have the power to shape my journey.
You’ve had incredible success with scholarships at Georgia State (45+)! Tell us about that.
As an out-of-state student with high tuition costs, it seemed unattainable to earn so many scholarships, but now, through hard work, countless scholarship applications, and the support of professors and advisers who recommended me, it has become a reality.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been helping my peers secure scholarships as well. I host scholarship office hours to guide them through application processes and offer advice on how to present themselves to scholarship committees.
Who inspires you to do your best?
My late grandparents have been my greatest source of inspiration. From a young age, I observed how each of them shone in their own way, living with purpose and showing it through their actions, not just their words.
What impact do you hope to leave on the world?
I hope to help level the playing field by uplifting others. My goal is to use my skills and experiences to create resources and opportunities for those who may not have the same advantages. Whether it’s through mentorship or community support, I want to empower individuals to realize their full potential and break down barriers that limit their success.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m excited to soon study abroad in Brazil and Morocco through two separate programs. I’ve always been passionate about traveling and exploring different cultures, and I’m thrilled to combine that with my education. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities Georgia State has given me, and I look forward to broadening my global perspective through these experiences.
