In this intern spotlight, we shine a light on the exceptional contributions and transformative journey of John “Wyatt” Rice during his time at the United Way of Southwest Alabama (UWSWA). A Marine Sciences major with a minor in Music at the University of South Alabama, Wyatt’s internship at United Way became a meaningful experience that opened his eyes to the realities of the community and inspired his commitment to making a positive impact.

Wyatt’s dedication to community service was deeply rooted in his upbringing. Influenced by his father, he embarked on regular trips to shelters, delivering food and spreading messages of hope. When he joined United Way as an intern, he saw it as an opportunity to continue his family’s legacy of service by supporting individuals and teams dedicated to the betterment of their community.

During his internship, Wyatt had the chance to witness the often-overlooked struggles faced by individuals in the community. He gained a deeper understanding of the daily challenges, such as uncertainty around food and financial instability. This eye-opening experience highlighted the importance of empathy and prompted Wyatt to seek ways to make a meaningful difference.

Looking ahead to his post-college plans, Wyatt aimed to leverage his passion for Marine Sciences to preserve Mobile’s natural beauty. As an industrial city and a popular tourist destination, Mobile faced environmental challenges, including pollution. Wyatt’s vision was to combat pollution caused by large businesses, safeguarding the Mobile River and its vital role in supporting marine life and tourism. His dedication to sustainable practices aligned with his desire to ensure the longevity of their vibrant city.

Outside of his studies and volunteer work, Wyatt enjoyed playing music as a creative outlet and a means of relaxation. He found joy in spending time with his energetic niece and nephew, and his ultimate form of meditation came from fishing. Immersed in nature, he discovered a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation.

Wyatt firmly believes that improving the quality of life in a community required active engagement. He emphasized the importance of personal investment, both in terms of time and resources. Through selfless volunteering and a genuine commitment to making a difference, Wyatt aimed to sow seeds of positive change, contributing to a brighter future for all.

What is your favorite quote?

“Life is like a box of crayons. Most people are the 8-color boxes, but what you’re really looking for are the 64-color boxes with the sharpeners on the back. I fancy myself to be a 64-color box, though I’ve got a few missing.” John Mayer