Story and photos developed by University Communications.

E nvironmental science major Michelle Murdock from Winder knew Georgia College & State University was the right choice for her, starting with the Bridge Scholars Program. She began her first year in a residential learning community with an intensive, five-week summer program designed to build a strong academic foundation. 

“The Bridge Scholars Program’s resources such as mentorship, tutoring and career guidance taught me to be open-minded and embrace new challenges,” Murdock said. “By actively seeking out and taking advantage of these opportunities, I’ve gained valuable skills and knowledge, built professional networks and grew as a student and an individual.”

This desire for capitalizing on opportunities helped her navigate college life and prepared her for success post-graduation.

“This strategy has allowed me to stay open-minded and proactive in my day-to-day life, whether it’s career advancement or social gain,” Murdock said. “It also encourages me to actively learn new skills, gain experiences I may not have considered before and positions me for career success and advancement.”

As a first-year student, many doors opened for Murdock. She was a program facilitator for Academic Outreach for four years, collaborating with community members of all ages and backgrounds, as well as university faculty and students. 

This provided her the opportunity to participate in other organizations like Georgia Adopt-A-Stream, GCSU Kid’s University, Rivers Alive, Georgia College Early College’s Zoo Club and in local community endeavors.

“My work with Academic Outreach developed my communication and leadership skills, which strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively with others,” she said. “Undergraduate research taught me valuable research skills and techniques. I gained a deeper appreciation for the scientific process using critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”

Murdock credits Ruth Eilers, director of Academic Outreach, for leading by example.

“Her ability to be flexible and achieve is incredible,” Murdock said. “She’s also one of the most open-minded and selfless people I’ve ever met. She collaborates with a diverse group of individuals to put on events with community members. I hope to continue learning from her and applying similar skills to my life.” 

In her environmental science classes, Murdock enjoyed the emphasis on experiential learning and the chance to interact with professors. GCSU faculty are approachable, accessible, passionate and knowledgeable about their fields, she said.

“Their passion and willingness to help provide answers to questions and their guidance inspired me to learn more about the environment and our impact on it,” Murdock said. “The numerous opportunities to engage in hands-on activities and research projects were incredibly valuable. They allowed me to apply what I learned in the classroom to real-world situations.”

She wants to pursue a career involving community outreach, where she can get the community involved in researching new ways to deal with current challenges related to water quality and conservation.

“These roles are so important given the current state of our world today,” Murdock said. “The dramatic effects of climate change due to human impact is a great example. I want to make a difference within my community, but also globally.”

Each day, she derives inspiration from others including her family, friends, Georgia College faculty and students and her community.

“Seeing people find their passion or get excited about what they love just makes me want to be a part of it,” Murdock said. “I want others and myself to have that spark in life.”