Stacy Smith, Housing Assignment Coordinator

What’s your degree in and from what university?
I graduate Dec. 11 with my Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern University
 
Why did you pursue that?
It was a professional and a personal goal that I’ve wanted to accomplish for several years and the opportunity presented itself, so I simply took advantage of it.
 
What’s your job and how long have you worked at Georgia College?
I work in Campus Housing as the Assignment Coordinator and in January of next year, I will have been employed at GC for 12 years. Also, I am a Georgia College Alumni  graduating in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology
 
How have you been able to use the information you’ve learned in your daily work?
This degree has given me a better understanding of the overall philosophy of what Student Affairs is about as well as given me theory to practice research and perspectives applicable to any functional area within this division.

You're not the only one in your family receiving a degree this month, right? Tell us about your husband. 
His name is Michael Smith, Sr., and he’s graduating from Georgia Southwestern University on Dec. 17, 2021, with a master’s degree in Business Administration. He’s been employed at Georgia Power for 16 years and is a supervisor in the Distribution and Control Center in Macon. He wanted to continue to grow professionally on his job, and he knew that having an advanced degree would make him a more educated and viable candidate for future promotions.
 
What advice would you offer other GC staff members to encourage them to further their education?
My advice is that if you have a desire to further your education you can do it. You have to be willing to put in the work and stay focused. It simply takes persistence and determination.

 
Anything else you’d like to add?
I would like to add that our two adult children, Kenneshia and Michael, who are both teachers in the Putnam County School System. They encouraged us to not give up, and we’re extremely grateful for their encouragement. Lastly, although, pursuing our degrees could be challenging at times, this was one of the best experiences of our lives, and we would not change a single moment.