I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

When Jessica Taylor encounters a prospective student on a tour of the college, she understands where they’re coming from. That’s because she’s been there before. Taylor, ’09 polymer and fiber engineering, began her career at Auburn as a recruiter, which came naturally to the Auburn graduate. During her time as a student, she was involved in nearly everything: Student Recruiters, SGA, Freshman Forum… you name it, she was in it.

Taylor now spends her days serving as the director of the college’s Office of Recruitment, Outreach and Scholarships. In that role, she is responsible for the college’s undergraduate recruitment efforts, K-12 outreach programs and awarding more than $6 million in engineering scholarships annually. In addition, she also recently served as the interim director of the college’s Center for Inspiring Engineering Excellence program aimed at underrepresented students.

“As a graduate and now a member of the staff, I truly believe in the impact we’re making on the world as Auburn engineers,” Taylor said.

The relationships she is able to build with the students is what she treasures the most.

“I meet them as prospective students and watch them succeed as graduates. I love to get invited to their weddings, have them come by my office when they are in town visiting as alumni, and now I get to watch them engage their young children in our outreach programs. The Auburn Engineering family is so special,” Taylor said. “I am thankful to work alongside an amazing team who works tirelessly to build a pipeline of future Auburn Engineers through our recruiting, outreach and scholarship programs.”

While she’s seen unparalleled growth and change in the college during her years on the Plains, she can’t imagine being anywhere else.

“This is the best job in the entire world,” Taylor said.