“I want to help strengthen family units, as I believe that when people are raised in a healthy, strong, loving family environment, they can flourish more as a person.”
“Ever since I was a young girl, my goal in life has always been to help others—particularly those with mental health issues. I felt that the best way to achieve this would be by obtaining a degree in psychology.
“I graduated from Calhoun Community College, and my dad encouraged me to attend Athens State University, stating that I would love it. The psychology program was exactly what I was looking for, and with my father being an alumnus from Athens State, he definitely inspired me to continue my education there.
“My major at Athens State was in psychology with a minor in human development. The work there was very challenging, but not in an overwhelming way. It just challenged you to think and definitely prepared you for the real world. Since graduating, I am currently pursuing graduate school, seeking a master’s in family and community services. I am thankful for the advice and support that my professors gave me at Athens State, because my minor in human development there was a great decision due to all of the help it has given me with my current studies in graduate school.
“During my time at Athens State, I was going to classes while also being a full-time mother of three children: a ten-year-old, a nine-year-old, and a six-year-old. They always keep me going and continue to do so. Even though I have children, some people might think that’s just a huge disadvantage to have to handle that and go to college. But honestly, the professors at Athens State were so supportive and understanding of me and they did make it possible for me to bring my kids to class if I needed to, making it that much easier. Being a full-time mom and a full-time student is definitely hectic, but it’s not impossible.
“It has always been important for me to be a role model for my girls, and they got to see me actively in school, going full-time, while also working as the SGA president at Athens State. It has all taught me time management, organization, and ultimately developed the leader in me, because when I first arrived at Athens State, I was really shy and not interacting with people. But when I took on more challenges and stepped in the role as SGA president, it helped me to get out of that shy-zone.
“Since graduating Athens State, not only have I started graduate school, but I am also the mother of a newborn and have recently married. After I receive my master’s in family and community services, I plan to certify as a family life educator. I chose this career because I want to help strengthen family units, as I believe that when people are raised in a healthy, strong, loving family environment, they can flourish more as a person. I intend to continue to build on the current education that I have gained from Athens State as I also continue to build my family.”
