Philanthropy shapes Auburn experience

No two students have the same Auburn experience. But each student’s experience is made more robust and meaningful through the support of generous donors committed to preserving access and opportunity at Auburn.

Dremere Woods created a sensation when he arrived on campus a few years ago with his infectious smile and can-do attitude. He was a Be the Creed honoree, recognized as one of WayUp’s top 100 interns for his work with GE Aviation and was an undergraduate researcher during his first two years at Auburn. But these just scratch the surface of his achievements during his time on the Plains.

Work, Hard Work

Woods is a first-generation college student determined to show the power of education to transform lives. And he didn’t choose the easy road. He entered Auburn as an engineering major in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering and will pursue an MBA after he graduates this year with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. He describes his Auburn experience as a blend of academic rigor, hands-on learning and a strong foundation in philanthropy and community service.

Now a senior, his years at Auburn have only strengthened his fondness for his soon-to-be alma mater and all it has offered him.

“I love the incredible sense of community and belonging we share as part of the Auburn Family,” he said. “It's this unique bond that makes Auburn feel like home no matter where I am.”

From scholarships to funding for co-ops, internships and undergraduate research, there’s no doubt that philanthropy has shaped his Auburn experience.

“Philanthropy has been an absolute game-changer,” he said. “Receiving scholarships has relieved a significant financial burden and allowed me to fully focus on my academics and personal growth. But it's not just about the financial aspect; it's about the message it sends — that someone believes in my potential and is willing to invest in my future. This has boosted my confidence and motivated me to excel academically and professionally.”

Thanks to donor support for experiential learning activities, Woods participated in co-ops, internships and undergraduate research, providing him with real-world insights and hands-on learning beyond the classroom. These experiences merged theoretical knowledge he gained with real-world practical scenarios, enhancing his problem-solving abilities and preparing him for the professional world.

“In industrial engineering, we learned about time studies. These studies measure how long tasks take, and as industrial engineers, we use that data to streamline processes,” he said. “I remember mastering this concept in class, then practicing it in the lab at Auburn where we conducted time studies for our athletics department, refining the ticketing process for basketball games. This hands-on experience prepared me to apply my skills at a Fortune 500 company where I made significant improvements to their global processes, earning recognition as a top intern nationally.”

Thriving at Auburn

As a first-generation student, Woods knows the challenges some students face to not only get to Auburn but to thrive once they arrive on campus. His advice to them is rooted in his own lessons learned.

“Keep pushing forward and stay focused on your goals. Be open to new opportunities and guidance from others,” he said. “And making mistakes is part of the journey, so don't let that discourage you. Your hard work and perseverance will lead you to great things and much more than you've ever wished for.”

Tapping into resources offered through his college and throughout campus, Woods values the faculty who taught him, career services staff who helped with job interviews, the organizations that connected him with industry leaders and so many others who have shaped his Auburn experience, including donors.

“Being part of the Auburn Family has been an incredible journey, and I owe so much of it to the generous donors who have made it all possible,” he said. “Their support has not only opened doors but has also enriched my experiences and shaped me into the person I am today. I am truly grateful for the opportunities I've had here, and I'm proud to say, ‘War Eagle!’”