Sophomore Jessie Harbuck begins to build the groundwork for her future at the University of North Alabama as Student Government Association secretary.

Roommate and SGA senator, sophomore Rachel Smith said working with Harbuck is fun but professional.

“She’s always full of laughter and smiles to make coming to her about something within SGA a comfortable experience, even for a new senator,” Smith said. “Anyone is able to see how much she cares for UNA.”

Harbuck plans two major events for SGA during her term. She will plan the Past-President’s breakfast on the day of homecoming and the SGA transition dinner at the end of the executive term in spring 2018.

Harbuck is always in her office hours working on anything she can get done, Smith said.

During her time at Montevallo High School, Harbuck said she did not think she would attend UNA, but the campus persuaded her to become a lion during Student Orientation Advising and Registration.

“When I first visited UNA, the SOAR counselor did not even have to open her mouth for me to decide I was in love with this campus,” Harbuck said. “The history of UNA is what drew me in.”

Junior Scott Griffin said Harbuck is passionate about UNA and the people.

“Jessie is a warm, caring person who always sees the best of others,” Griffin said. “Jessie has a lot of potential to do amazing things in whichever community she lives.”

Sophomore Melanie Brown said working with Harbuck is enjoyable.

Junior Josh Haggerty said outside of SGA, Harbuck is a “wonderful, small ball of fun.”

“She is sweet and caring for anyone she is around,” Haggerty said. “She demands your attention due to her outgoing personality and very loud mouth. Jessie is a very good friend and deserves the world.”

At Montevallo High School, Harbuck was involved in Future Teachers of America. She said in this organization, she found her passion that is shaping the plan for her future.

“I believe that classrooms should be student lead, not state lead,” Harbuck said. “Each student learns differently, so I do not believe it is fair for the State of Alabama to tell the teachers how something should be taught.”

Harbuck plans to graduate in May 2020 with a degree in Political Science. She said she wants to work for the Alabama State Department of Education.