Torrianna Harris, a Forsyth, Georgia, native and music major discovered the Georgia College difference. 

“What I like most about this university is the freedom to be creative and expressive,” she said. “There are no limitations on how you should act or what you should be like.”

Having access to a variety of classes, workshops and discussions has allowed her to learn about different people, cultures and perspectives. She’s also learned to think independently.

“Because of this experience, I’ve found my own way of thinking,” Harris said. “This allows me to be confident in the decisions that I make with my life.” 

Although it’s difficult for her to highlight one professor at Georgia College—as many professors touched her life in so many ways—she especially enjoyed the teachings of Dr. Youngmi Kim, voice coordinator and assistant professor of music. Kim was her voice lesson instructor for the past three years.

“Not only has Dr. Kim contributed to my vocal growth, she has been a motivator during my time at Georgia College,” Harris said. “She always pushes me to be the best I can be and believed in me.”

She broadened her Georgia College experience as a choir director of the Voices of Joy Gospel Choir and a member of the Black Student Association (BSA). These organizations changed her for the better.

“Both specialize in unity with community,” Harris said. “With BSA, it’s been great to see Black students thriving and lifting each other up to be better. I want to continue to do this to benefit my community in the future.”

As the choir director of the Gospel Choir, she teaches the songs, leads rehearsals and directs the choir in performances.

“I’m lucky to have experienced the on-campus performances we’ve participated in during my time at Georgia College—even with the limitations of COVID,” Harris said.

As choir director, she’s also grown as a leader. 

“This experience has helped me structurally and expanded my critical thinking skills,” Harris said. “I feel confident that I will be able to take the skills I've learned with me for the future.”

This fall, Harris will begin her career teaching general music classes at Waynesboro Primary School. However, her goal is to open a voice lesson studio and become a high school choral director. 

She attributes her ability to dream big to her professors.

“The professors I admire most at Georgia College are the ones who never settle for less,” Harris said. “They prioritize a solid learning experience to make sure we will be able to take this knowledge with us for the rest of our lives.”