Page 28 - Laker Connection Spring 2012

Senior Jamie Taylor wasn’t sure about attending Clayton State Univer- sity. Her challenging experiences with a previous institution coupled with hearsay about Clayton State made her question if this was the college for her. Meeting with Recruitment Counselor Joseph Echols proved to be one of the best decisions Taylor made.
“I sat down with Joseph Echols in the admissions office in July of 2008 and he helped change my feelings about at- tending Clayton State,” Taylor says. “Joseph talked me through everything and gave me a sense of comfort. He made me see that if I didn’t take a risk there would be no opportunity for change. If I had not stepped out of my comfort zone, the doors that have opened for me at Clayton State Univer- sity would still be closed. I want to pro- vide the same security and comfort for other college students that Joseph pro- vided for me four years ago. Without him I probably would have been at an- other institution.”
Taylor was further impressed with the University after attending orienta- tion.
“When I walked into orientation in August of 2008 I immediately noticed that Clayton State had a small commu- nity and family feel,” she explains. “Everyone that I encountered was more than willing to help.
“Clayton State University also pro- vided an environment where I felt com-
By Ciji Fox
fortable being myself. I am outgoing, en- ergetic and a well-rounded student, at Clayton State I feel confident that it’s okay to let other people see that.”
Education has always been impor- tant to Taylor, and her family also placed a high value on attending col- lege.
“Education is one of the most im- portant building blocks of success; I be- lieve that if you want to go as far as life will let you, education is the way to get there,” she says. “Everything that we do is a learning experience. It is up to you what you do with the experience that you gain.
“Growing up I was always told that college was not an option. Both of my parents provide inspiration and motiva- tion on a daily basis. They have been very supportive since day one.”
And, when Taylor’s mother, Sonya Taylor, graduated from Clayton State dur- ing Taylor’s sophomore year, she became even more determined to graduate.
Although majoring in Liberal Stud- ies with a minor in Psychology is a seri- ous commitment, there is still time to participate in several organizations.
“I participate in many different ac- tivities on campus,” Taylor says. “I am currently a member of Theta Phi Alpha Fraternity, a resident assistant, and very active in numerous committees on cam- pus. I have been involved in Ameri- Corps, AmeriCorps Leadership Council, Loch-In Leadership Institute, Orienta-
tion, Upward Bound Cheerleading Pro- gram and several student organizations on campus. I love being involved and have a passion for helping others.”
Taylor admits that being so heavily involved has been challenging in the past. “I tend to dive head first into every- thing,” she says. “Sometimes I get in- volved in too many things at once. I have overcome this obstacle by learning the meaning of balance, time manage- ment and the wonders a planner can
work for you.”
Despite a busy schedule Taylor
makes sure she gives back to the com- munity.
“Giving back to the community is important because it makes you appre- ciate the little things in life,” she says. “If we each do a little, together we can accomplish a lot.”
As part of her giving back, Taylor is currently working with a group of stu- dents from middle schools in the Henry County area.
“I also coach two cheerleading squads for McDonough Youth Associa- tion and I coach private tumbling classes,” she adds.
Taylor plans to go straight into graduate school. Her dream is to further other students’ success with a career in Student Affairs.
“Clayton State has showed me im- portance of strong and understanding professionals working at the collegiate level,” Taylor says.
26 THE LAKER CONNECTION
student profile
JAMIE TAYLOR
Everyone Was More Than Willing to Help