Taylor Talley

Human Development and Family Science

Talley credits HDFS with providing a new perspective on public policy

Hometown

Louisa, Virginia

Major

Political Science and Human Development and Family Science with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State

Clubs/Activities/Honors

Delta Gamma, Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, Designated Dawgs, Undergraduate Moot Court, RISE, School of Public and International Affairs Ambassador, Pre-Law Student Ambassador

Post-graduation Plans

I plan to go to law school.

Why did you choose your major?

Being that I have a huge interest in family law or public interest law, I chose HDFS because of the ties and application public policy and family law have towards families, children, and humans overall. HDFS has allowed me to get a different perspective on how humans develop and interact from my other major of political science by going more in-depth on how humans use public policy for their own benefit and to reach maximum potential.

Why did you want to become an Ambassador?

I feel like many do not know what family law is or how Human Development and Family Science can tie to a legal or public policy aspect, so I wanted to share that uniqueness through being an ambassador.

What do you like the most about FACS?

The professors and faculty in FACS are the BEST! They really want you to succeed and follow your dreams and I really found a community in FACS for that reason.

What advice would you give to new students?

It’s totally okay to change your path along the way and don’t be afraid of change/uncertainty! I came in as a Political Science major and had no idea Human Development and Family Sciences existed and became a double major at the end of my freshman year. I entered a world of unknown after being a freshman during 2020 and the pandemic and taking on a whole new major from what I had seen before.

What has been your favorite part of your FACS program so far?

I have really enjoyed the hands-on internship aspect that was a part of the curriculum, as I was able to do an internship on Capitol Hill in the House of Representatives through the Washington Semester Program. It allowed me to see first-hand how public policy impacts families, children, and humans through my interactions with constituents.

What is your favorite spot to study on campus?

My favorite study spot on campus in the law library, which I feel is a hidden gem since many believe it’s just for law students.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about FACS?

I wish others knew a lot of FACS majors go good as a double major with other programs.