Full Circle

If you would've told me five years ago that I would be working at my alma mater and telling students what a great program the School of Journalism and Mass Communication is at the University of Georgia, I would've laughed and said you're joking. To think I went through the exact same program as well and called it home. Now, I get to share my love for my college home to others.

Not much has changed over the years except from being a student to UGA staff. It’s been an absolute blast being an Academic Advisor for Prospective Students. I love my job and making an impact on students.

It's surreal to think that especially since I made the effort to get to know all the staff at the School of Journalism. They’ve retired or moved on to other roles and now it’s my turn to fill in their shoes. I even met with the person who was in my role when I was a student. I applied to scholarships, the major, all with their help, and now I get to help students do the same.

It has been so rewarding and something I have loved to do. No day looks the same and my favorite part has been easing students’ anxieties. Students will come in my office clearly distressed but with my calm nature, fidget toys, and essential oil diffuser, they leave feeling relieved and have a plan. My enthusiasm for UGA and Grady College is evident. My passion for helping students succeed is clear in my interactions.

I didn’t imagine myself working as an academic adviser, but that's just where life took me. And I'm exactly where I need to be.

I always had a love for Athens. I didn't want to leave even as my friends were ready to go by the time they graduated. There's something about the Classic City that felt special to me. Maybe it's where I learned my independence, or the football fans, or beautiful downtown, but whatever the case is, Athens drew me close.

My freshman year of college.