UWG Psychology Student Speaks on Her Internship with ELEVATE Coweta County Students Share this page
As students at the University of West Georgia navigate their time in college, many juggle assignments, part-time jobs, and internships – valuable gateways to learning and exploring their desired career fields.
One such student, psychology major Farrah Robinson, is taking on that ambitious journey as the fall 2025 intern for ELEVATE Coweta Students, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving student success and providing academic and personal support.
As any other student, Robinson discovered this internship on Handshake, which is a platform dedicated to helping college students and recent graduates find jobs and opportunities. As she learned more about ELEVATE and what it stood for, Robinson was amazed and wanted to try her hand at helping the youth.
“I was inspired to become an intern at ELEVATE because it offered a valuable opportunity to gain experience in a school setting while working directly with youth,” Robinson said. “I felt confident that this experience would support my future goals and allow me to contribute to a cause I care about.”
During her internship, Robinson works one-on-one with six students to help establish their goals both academically and personally. She keeps in close contact by checking in with the students periodically and ensuring that their mental well-being is in a positive state. Her duties coincide with her future goals of working with children.
“Being able to work with children and support them through [these] formative phases motivates me to pursue a career focused on youth development and mental health,” Robinson said. “This ongoing support helps build trust, while also encouraging them to stay focused and motivated.”
Based on everything that Robinson has done so far, she is determined that the mission of ELEVATE will help students stay on track with their studies and fulfill their dreams. The program is heavily dedicated to transforming students’ lives, and the family-like dynamic solidifies the deep connection with students, staff and faculty.
“The students feel comfortable, because they know ELEVATE is a safe space without judgement,” Robinson said. “That kind of support plays a role in helping students with their path to graduation and life beyond high school.”
Denise Buchanan, the program director, quickly took note of Robinson’s work ethic and how the internship provided her the opportunity to express her career aspirations. She also mentioned that Robinson coordinated the Backpack Buddies program, which ensures that students receive food bags on weekends.
“Farrah’s leadership style is characterized by a calm and approachable presence,” Buchanan said. “She will absolutely leave a positive impact on the Coweta County School System. She has already built strong, meaningful relationships with her students, which speaks to her dedication and ability to connect with those she supports.”
As a third-year student, Robinson already has her future set in stone. She plans to continue her education by earning a master’s degree and then becoming either a family therapist or school psychologist. The internship opened her eyes to the reality of working with children and allowed her to gain experience in a field that is often overlooked yet highly needed.
Robinson hopes that she continues to make a difference for the youth and encourages fellow UWG students to follow their dreams.
“My advice for psychology students is to always look out for offers throughout the school,” she said. “UWG has so many opportunities that can help with gaining experience.”