Name: Chason Thompson

Hometown: Roswell GA

Major/minors: Criminal Justice, French and Outdoor Education

What made you choose Georgia College:

When I toured here, I felt that I could see myself here. I felt that I could see myself studying in the library and hanging out on Front Campus.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice:

Ever since I was little, I have been interested in a career in law enforcement. I always knew that I wanted to help people and I feel that law enforcement was the best way to do that. A degree in Criminal Justice seemed like the best way to achieve my goals.

Memorable experiences you’ve had during your time at GC:

My time at GC allowed me opportunities that I never thought I would have. I was able to facilitate an event for 4H students from all over the country because of the classes I took. I was able to get internships that helped me experience things few others get to experience, and one of the most memorable lessons I’ll take with me from GC is to keep an open mind and to consider other perspectives.

Faculty or staff members who stood out during your time here:

Billy Copeland, Dr. Jeff Turner, Dr. Sara Doude, Professor Wilkinson, Tanya Darden, and Dr. Liz Speelman.

Favorite courses:

Challenge Course with Dr. Speelman, Drugs and CJ with Dr. Doude, Experiential Education with Dr. Turner, Inside Out with Dr. Liles, and Constitutional Law with Professor Lamparello.

Organizations and programs:

The Outdoor Center and Adventure Programs: I always loved being outside and doing things in the outdoors, and when I came to GC, the Outdoor Center allowed me to continue going on adventures and enjoying the outdoors. The Outdoor Center made me decide to add an Outdoor Education minor to learn more about the outdoors. It even became somewhere for me to work, helping with trips on the weekends and working at the climbing wall at night.

Communities in Schools Baldwin County: I was able to mentor two students at Oak Hill middle school. I hope I’ve helped them and made a difference in their lives.

The library: I worked in the library for the entire time I spent at GC. It allowed me to continue some of the interests I had in high school, like 3D printing, and it also allowed me to learn a lot about the resources that the library offers to students so that I could make use of them for myself.

Plans after graduation:

I hope to be a police officer with the Gwinnett County Police Department or any other department that will take me.

What will you miss most about Georgia College:

I will miss some of the connections I’ve made and the people I’ve met along my journey to get my degree.