Alex Carruth is an Associate Engagement Coordinator at Moxie in Atlanta whose love for food and the Bulldawg Nation is only second to the love he has for his family. Read about how our #MCM takes advantage of every opportunity:
1. What's your story? What makes you unique?
On my mom’s side, I am a third-generation American from Russia, while my dad’s roots have been firmly planted in this country since the 1700s. My first and middle names are those of great grandparents on both sides so although none of this makes me unique, really, it is in part how I define myself at my foundation - my name - and holds how important family is to me. I am also the first in my household to attend college and it is an honor I hold dearly. School is by no means for everyone, but attending a school like UGA, I had a fire in me to experience as much as I could. From leadership opportunities across organizations and philanthropies, to becoming a tradition keeper and a G Book editor, and working with the Office of Admissions and UGA Food Services, I wanted to make sure I had a well-rounded experience. Being a first-generation college student gave me a chance to appreciate my time unaffected by my family’s previous experiences, and allowed me to cherish every moment that much more
2. What motivates you?
I am undoubtedly motivated by challenges. I love to face problems head-on and find a solution. Whether organization-related, reaching new goals, or otherwise. I enjoy being a problem solver and committing myself to seeing resolutions through. I can think of few things I value more than strategic and creative thinking.
When I was told that there was no way I would get into the University of Georgia or be able to pay for it, I graduated in four years with the help of scholarships and loans. More recently, when an organization I love - UGA HEROs - wanted to raise more money than we ever had, we came together and reached the second highest fundraising goal in HERO history. An organization I found a true family in, the Chapel Bell, struggled with sustainability in the beginning, but thanks to problem solving and strategy, I was able to help establish a structure that will ensure positivity filled Mondays for years to come. And lastly, with problem solving and marketing, the Student Alumni Council was able to have a record setting year my senior year for Senior Signature commitments.
3. Who is a hero of yours?
My mother 100%. Apart from being an amazing woman overall, she never let anything get in her way. When she knew she would be happier being a teacher, she quit working for a major company and started working at my Montessori school. Later in life, when she was diagnosed with cancer, not once did she let it prevent her from living the life she wanted to live. The foundation of challenges being my motivation comes from my mom. Every challenge she faced became motivation to live life to
the fullest, or in her words “live each day like an adventure.” When I take into perspective that she faced the ultimate challenge, stood her ground, and grew from it, anything seems possible.
4. What's your future plan? Your goals?
My short-term goals are to finish my First State Quarters of the United States Collector’s Map - currently missing: New Mexico, Missouri, and Illinois - and travel a lot. While I do not have a five year plan, or even a one year plan, my overall goal is to be happy. Yes, I have projects I want to complete, and yes I want to get to the point in my career where I am my own boss. But in the end I want to be able to say that I lived my life to the fullest and that I was able to make a difference in the lives of those around me.
5. If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?
Never let negativity stand in your way. Whether it is the internal negativity associated with the loss of a loved one, or the disappointment of not achieving something, know that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
6. What is something you feel strongly about (a cause, belief, etc.)?
A cause I am passionate about is UGA HEROs. It’s an organization founded at UGA that helps raise money for children impacted by HIV/AIDS in the state of Georgia. Through this nonprofit, I’ve met amazing kids that have changed my life for the better. Amazing kids that usually don’t get the privilege of having a childhood that many of us take for granted. The organization has also introduced me to countless friends that I wouldn’t have been able to meet otherwise.
7. What's one of the coolest things you've ever done?
When I was going into my junior year of high school, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go backpacking through a portion of the North Carolina segment of the Appalachian Trail. I had never gone camping before, let alone backpacking so it was definitely a life changing experience. The trip altered my perception on nature and sustainability, gave me a lot more appreciation for air conditioning, and motivated me to make lasting changes in regards to my health. It was one of the most impactful experiences on my life as a whole and I highly encourage everyone to go out and become acquainted with Appalachia.
Being a caller at Bulldog 100 for the first time my junior year of college, also deserves
recognition. As a member of the Student Alumni Council, I was selected to announce a portion of the Bulldog 100 - an event that recognizes the top 100 Bulldog owned and operated businesses. It was an honor to meet and announce some of the top UGA alumni there are, as well as motivation to make the list one day. Not to be braggadocios, but senior year I was able to take a plane to St. Simons for Georgia-Florida. The commute from Athens took less than half an hour and is undoubtedly in the top for coolest experiences I’ve ever had. Shout out to Jade, Jenna, and Patrick Jones for the unforgettable experience.
8. Anything we haven't asked that you'd like to talk about.
I’d like to leave you with a quote by Oscar Wilde, “an idea that is not dangerous is unworthy of being called an idea at all.” This is one of my favorite quotes and it continuously inspires me to think outside the box. If an idea is not forcing you to think beyond the status quo, or reevaluate how procedures are done to then be able to improve upon them, why waste your time?
If you'd like to reach Alex AKA Jack Black for mentorship opportunities, you can email him HERE.