欧宝体育app

 

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Erin Wiley

College of Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice

"I wanted a career that allowed me to care for patients on their worst days and provide a safe healthcare experience."

The future of healthcare is shaped by the dedication and passion that graduate students bring to their fields. Erin Wiley, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student specializing in Nursing Anesthesia, is paving the way for improved patient safety and care. With years of experience in healthcare and a strong commitment to clinical excellence, Erin is preparing for a career that blends expertise, leadership, and compassion.

Born and raised in 欧宝体育app, Erin鈥檚 journey in healthcare has been one of dedication and evolution. She first graduated from the Medical College of Georgia in 2011 with a Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy degree. For 11 years, she worked as an Occupational Therapist before returning to school to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leader, which she earned in 2021. Now, as a second-year student in 欧宝体育app鈥檚 Nursing Anesthesia program, Erin is on track to earn her DNP in 2026, fulfilling her dream of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

The Challenges and Rewards of Graduate Study

Erin attests that studying nursing anesthesia at the doctoral level can be both fulfilling and demanding. 鈥淭he sheer volume of information, the high expectations, and the time commitment required for both coursework and clinical training can be overwhelming,鈥� she shared. 鈥淏alancing my responsibilities as a student, wife, and mother has been difficult, but I remind myself every day why I started.鈥� Despite the challenges, the friendships she has built with her classmates have been an invaluable source of motivation and support. 鈥湴卤疴�檙别 all in this together, and that camaraderie makes the journey easier.鈥� For Erin, one of the most rewarding aspects of the program is knowing that this rigorous training is preparing her for a career where she can make a real difference. For nursing students considering an advanced practice role, Erin offers this advice: 鈥淏e prepared for the challenges but never lose sight of why you started. Pursuing an advanced degree requires deep commitment, long hours of studying, and significant sacrifices鈥攂ut the rewards are worth it.鈥�

The People Who Inspire Her

Erin credits her success to the unwavering support of two key figures in her life: her mother and her husband. 鈥淢y mom is the hardest-working, most selfless person I know. She鈥檚 taught me perseverance and the importance of putting others before yourself.鈥� Her husband Travis is another source of inspiration. 鈥淗e is my biggest cheerleader and my constant source of strength. His work ethic, determination, and resilience inspire me every day. Even on my toughest days, he reminds me of my strength and potential.鈥�

Looking Ahead: Shaping the Next Generation

Erin envisions a future not only in clinical practice but also in education. 鈥淚n 10 years, I hope to be an established CRNA in a career that continues to challenge me,鈥� she shared. 鈥淯ltimately, I would love to be teaching in a nursing anesthesia program. The greatest impact we can have on our profession is shaping and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.鈥�

Balancing Life, School, and Well-Being

Despite her demanding schedule, Erin prioritizes her well-being. 鈥淲hen I can relax, I love reading, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. Most of my free time is spent at the sports fields, cheering on my kids at their extracurricular activities鈥攚hich I 飞辞耻濒诲苍鈥檛 trade for anything.鈥�

Maintaining mental health has been key to her success. 鈥淎nxiety and self-doubt can be overwhelming if you let them. I鈥檝e learned to focus on what I can control and to ask for help when I need it, whether from my professors, family, or classmates,鈥� she said. 鈥淭ime management, being purposeful with my time, and getting plenty of sleep have been essential to maintaining balance.鈥�

A Journey of Compassion and Commitment

Erin鈥檚 story is one of perseverance, passion, and dedication to patient care. As she continues her journey at 欧宝体育app, her experiences and ambitions are paving the way for a future where she can impact both patients and future generations of nurse anesthetists. Her journey is just beginning, and we 肠补苍鈥檛 wait to see where it takes her next.

 

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Cheyenne Head

Medical College of Georgia

Master of Science in Medical Physiology

"I want to be a physician who not only provides care but also serves as an educator and advocate for women鈥檚 health."

At 欧宝体育app, students are the driving force behind life-changing, life-saving education. Their curiosity and commitment fuel the university鈥檚 mission every day. Among them is Cheyenne Head, a Master of Science in Medical Physiology student with ambitious plans for a future in medicine. From her fascination with human biology to her passion for women鈥檚 health, Cheyenne is making the most of her time at 欧宝体育app and paving the way for a meaningful career. 

From Biology to Medical Physiology

Cheyenne鈥檚 love for science began long before graduate school. After earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology as a pre-med student at 欧宝体育app, she decided to deepen her knowledge. 鈥淚鈥檝e always been fascinated by the way the human body works,鈥� Cheyenne said. 鈥淎fter finishing undergrad, I wanted to dive deeper, so I decided to join the Master of Science in Medical Physiology program. I know it鈥檒l really set me up for success in medical school.鈥� 

In addition to her coursework, Cheyenne is working on a meaningful research project focused on emergency response plans, a topic made even more relevant by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. "I'm working on a dry lab project to identify and evaluate emergency response plans across AU鈥檚 campuses and similar institutions," she explained. "The goal is to create an Emergency Plan of Action (EPOA) that could help improve outcomes for our academic community." Cheyenne will present her findings at the 2024 American Physiological Society conference in April, an opportunity she is looking forward to. 

Transitioning to Graduate Studies

Moving from undergraduate to graduate studies wasn鈥檛 without its challenges. Cheyenne quickly discovered that the workload and intensity of her courses were at a whole new level. 鈥淚t was a big adjustment,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 had to get serious about managing my time and creating realistic schedules. I also learned how important it is to prioritize my mental and physical health.鈥� For prospective medical physiology students, she offers practical advice: 鈥淪tick to a schedule - it鈥檚 the best way to stay on top of the material. And don鈥檛 be afraid to go to office hours. The faculty are approachable and genuinely want to help you succeed.鈥� 

Inspiration and Future Goals

When asked who has influenced her most, Cheyenne didn鈥檛 hesitate. 鈥淢y mom, without a doubt,鈥� she said. 鈥淪he鈥檚 been my biggest cheerleader through everything. Her work ethic is incredible, and 蝉丑别鈥檚 always encouraged me to follow my passions. That鈥檚 made such a huge impact on me.鈥� 

Looking ahead, Cheyenne sees herself as an OB-GYN in 10 years, combining her love of science with her commitment to women鈥檚 health. 鈥淚 want to be a physician who not only provides care but also serves as an educator and advocate for women鈥檚 health and wellness,鈥� she said. 鈥淢aking a difference in this field would be an amazing feeling, and that鈥檚 what keeps me motivated.鈥� 

Cheyenne Head鈥檚 story is one of determination, passion, and vision. With her academic achievements, impactful research, and clear goals for the future, 蝉丑别鈥檚 already making a difference鈥攁nd 蝉丑别鈥檚 just getting started. 奥别鈥檙别 excited to see where her journey takes her next. 

 

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Charles Boyd

Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Master of Public Administration

"I hope my work will impact society as a whole by helping people in difficult situations live better lives."

Charles Boyd, a student in 欧宝体育app鈥檚 Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, exemplifies the power of education to create meaningful societal change. With a background in political science and business administration, Charles鈥� decision to pursue an MPA reflects his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. As he continues his graduate journey, he shares insights into his inspirations, challenges, and future goals. 

Pursuing his MPA

Charles鈥� academic path was shaped by his undergraduate studies in political science and business administration, disciplines that relate to the field of public administration. 鈥淲hat inspired me to pursue an MPA was seeing how it intertwined with my undergraduate education and how it changed people鈥檚 lives for the better,鈥� he says. For Charles, the MPA is more than a degree鈥攊t鈥檚 a pathway to empowering others and creating opportunities for those in need.  

One of his ultimate goals is to start a nonprofit organization aimed at helping children from difficult backgrounds thrive academically and personally. 鈥淚 hope my work will impact society as a whole by helping people in difficult situations live better lives,鈥� Charles shares. The MPA program at AU has provided him with the tools to turn this vision into reality, preparing him for a future of leadership and advocacy. 

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Focused

Transitioning from undergraduate to graduate studies came with its own set of challenges. Having only graduated from his bachelor鈥檚 program three months prior, Charles initially questioned whether he had taken on too much, too soon. 鈥淭alking with my loved ones changed my perspective and put me on the right path to succeed,鈥� he reflects. To maintain balance and wellbeing, Charles emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation. 鈥淚 plan the entire week out and set clear objectives for each day,鈥� he says. This approach not only reduces stress but also helps him stay organized and focused on his academic goals. 

Mentorship and Motivation

Mentorship has been an important component of Charles鈥� success. He credits Dr. Martha Ginn, a Professor in the Department of Social Sciences, who provided guidance during a graduate assistantship, with helping him gain confidence in his abilities. 鈥淒r. Ginn reassured me that I was doing amazing work and encouraged me not to doubt myself all the time,鈥� he recalls. This support, combined with recognition of his academic achievements, has been a source of motivation for Charles. Winning the Ralph Walker Award during his senior year of undergrad was a particularly proud moment. 鈥淚t showed me that the hard work was worth it, and that people were recognizing it,鈥� he says. 

Beyond the Classroom

Outside of his academic pursuits, Charles enjoys taking breaks with his favorite guilty pleasure shows, Love Island and Tell Me Lies. This downtime provides a needed balance to his busy schedule. If given the chance to have dinner with any historical figure, he would choose Martin Luther King Jr. 鈥淚鈥檇 ask him what motivated him to put his life on the line to fight for equality every single day,鈥� Charles says, reflecting his admiration for leaders who inspire change. 

 Looking Ahead

Charles鈥� future aspirations include becoming an attorney and using his skills to advocate for others, particularly in the nonprofit industry. 鈥淭his program has helped me prepare by equipping me with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact,鈥� he says. Through his dedication to his studies and a clear vision for his future, Charles  represents the transformative potential of an MPA degree. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and the desire to make a difference. 

 

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Selassie Wonder King Hatekah

College of Science and Mathematics

MS in Biological & Computational Mathematics

鈥淚鈥檓 motivated by the desire to be an inspiration to the younger generation, both in my family and community.鈥�

Selassie Wonder King Hatekah, a student in 欧宝体育app鈥檚 Master of Science in Biological & Computational Mathematics program, exemplifies how mathematical and computational techniques can help solve real-world problems. With a background in biomedical engineering and a deep curiosity about the intersections of biology, mathematics, and technology, he is pursuing a path that enables him to harness mathematical modeling to tackle urgent public health issues. Through his research, Selassie aspires to make a lasting impact in fields such as epidemiology, drug development, and disease prevention.

Discovering the Importance of Biological and Computational Mathematics

Biological and computational mathematics is a field of significant impact, combining the precision of mathematics with the insights of biology to address today鈥檚 most pressing health challenges. For Selassie, this interdisciplinary approach is one of the things that makes the field so exciting. 鈥淏iological and computational mathematics merges mathematical techniques with biological research and computational tools to solve complex biological problems,鈥� he said. 鈥淚ts importance lies in its ability to model and predict intricate biological systems, which can lead to breakthroughs in medical research and public health. For example, these models play a crucial role in drug discovery and epidemiology, enabling us to develop more effective treatments and interventions.鈥� Selassie credits his biomedical engineering background for sparking his interest in mathematical modeling. The program鈥檚 curriculum, which includes coursework in mathematical theory, computational programming, and applied modeling, aligns with his career goal of becoming a biostatistician.

One area where Selassie has found inspiration is modeling infectious diseases through stochastic dynamical systems. 鈥淚鈥檓 passionate about computational biology, especially in the mathematical modeling of infectious diseases,鈥� he said, drawing influence from AU faculty member, Dr. Olusegun Otunuga. 鈥淒r. Otunuga鈥檚 research on modeling diseases like measles and COVID-19 using advanced stochastic methods shows how mathematical models can impact public health.鈥� Through his studies, Selassie has come to appreciate the power of even simple models in understanding the progression and control of diseases. He hopes to build on these insights by integrating statistical and computational methods to enhance model accuracy and predictive power in real-world settings.

Mentorship and Staying Motivated

Mentorship has been pivotal in Selassie鈥檚 academic journey. When reflecting on advice that has helped shaped his collegiate experience, he shared words of wisdom from his undergraduate supervisor, Dr. Kwabena Kan-Dapaah, 鈥淧rogress in research often comes from the questions we ask, not just the answers we find.鈥� 鈥淗is words have helped me remain curious, always searching for new ways to frame research questions,鈥� he said. This emphasis on curiosity drives Selassie to explore and test different models, continually refining his understanding of complex systems in public health and biomedicine.

Selassie is one of the first in his family to pursue higher education, something that he says keeps him inspired even during challenging times. 鈥淚鈥檓 motivated by the desire to be an inspiration to the younger generation, both in my family and community,鈥� he said. Knowing he is setting an example and breaking new ground fuels his commitment to his studies and research, empowering him to continue working towards his goals.

Memorable Moments and Finding Comfort

Selassie has prioritized both academic and extracurricular experiences at 欧宝体育app University, allowing him to make the most of his time as a graduate student. One of his favorite memories has been participating in the IPPH Summer Scholars Program, which provided hands-on exposure to public health research. 鈥淚t deepened my understanding of public health and allowed me to engage in meaningful research,鈥� he said. 

Outside of his studies, Selassie finds comfort in traditional Ghanaian dishes, particularly banku with okro soup, a meal that connects him to home and provides a sense of warmth and nostalgia. When asked which fictional universe he would pick to escape to for a day, Selassie chose Wakanda, a technologically advanced kingdom in the Marvel Universe. 鈥淲akanda represents a perfect blend of technology and culture,鈥� he said, reflecting his own passion for integrating science with real-world applications that benefit society.

Paving the Way in Mathematical and Computational Biology

Selassie鈥檚 journey in the master鈥檚 in biological and computational mathematics program is a testament to his dedication to public health and his drive to make a meaningful impact. With a unique combination of a sharp mathematical mind, computational expertise, and a commitment to addressing public health challenges, he is well on his way to achieving his vision of advancing biostatistics and disease modeling. For Selassie, the future holds the promise of discovery, innovation, and meaningful contributions to fields that affect lives around the world.

 

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Ashley Dieterich

College of Education and Human Development

EdD in Educational Innovation

"I have a personal philosophy that our small interactions are what change the world."

At 欧宝体育app, students are driven by a passion for learning and a desire to bring positive change to the world around them. One such student is Ashley, who is pursuing her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Innovation. This program is designed to prepare future leaders to adapt to the rapidly evolving nature of educational environments. For Ashley, the decision to pursue her EdD was motivated by a simple yet profound love for education.

鈥淚 decided to pursue my EdD purely for the love of education. I get excited learning about and discussing education, and the programs at AU push me to think deeply and become a better educator,鈥� she shares. Ashley鈥檚 journey at AU has already begun to impact her work, and 蝉丑别鈥檚 hopeful that the impact will continue to spread, making meaningful change wherever she goes. 鈥淚 have a personal philosophy that our small interactions are what change the world. I have already seen an effect on my practice from being in this program, and I hope that the ripples will make a meaningful change in the places where I work.鈥�

A Program Designed for Today's Professionals

欧宝体育app鈥檚 Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation program stands out for its commitment to producing educational leaders, as well as its flexibility and affordability. This is reflected in its recent ranking as Georgia鈥檚 5th most affordable Doctor of Education program by . The cohort-based model is another hallmark of the program, fostering a collaborative, supportive environment where students can choose from over 20 concentrations. Reflecting on her experiences in the program, Ashley praises the sense of community the cohort provides: 鈥淭he cohort model of the EdD is one of the best parts of the program. You have the support of people who understand what you are experiencing and who have gotten to know you.鈥�

Growing through Challenge 

No journey through graduate school is without its challenges, and for Ashley, one of the most significant hurdles has been adapting her writing style. 鈥淕raduate studies have changed the way I write. I have an undergraduate degree in English and Rhetoric, so my writing style was developed in a literary environment. Writing for research is a new approach, and it has been a process.鈥�

With the help of AU鈥檚 professors and the Center for Writing Excellence, 蝉丑别鈥檚 making steady progress. 鈥淭hankfully, I have the benefit of working with my professors and the Center for Writing Excellence at AU. I am improving, but it is an ongoing challenge.鈥� This evolution in her writing is a testament to Ashley鈥檚 commitment to personal growth as she advances through the program. 

Advice from mentors has played a significant role in shaping Ashley鈥檚 graduate career. 鈥淭his piece of advice has come from a few sources, but it has been impactful: choose a research topic that you care about,鈥� she says. Writing a dissertation requires a deep commitment, and by centering her work on topics that truly matter to her, Ashley has found her academic journey both meaningful and manageable. 鈥淲henever I consider a paper or work toward my dissertation, I think of this advice. It has really helped me to center my education as well as my career.鈥�

Memorable Experiences and The Joy of Teaching

Ashley鈥檚 time at AU has been filled with memorable experiences, one of which was working with Dr. Rebecca Harper and the National Writing Project while earning her Ed.S. 鈥淭hrough this, I have worked on training at the state level and grants at the local level,鈥� she says.  These experiences have kept Ashley connected to her passion for writing and education, while allowing her to collaborate with peers who share her enthusiasm for the field. 

As an educator, Ashley finds her greatest joy in her interactions with students. 鈥淢y favorite part is the students. I love their joy in life and learning about what they love. I enjoy conversations with students and learning about their insights into the world,鈥� she shares. For Ashley, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge鈥攊t鈥檚 about forming connections with students, listening to their ideas, and being inspired by their passion for life. 

Final Thoughts: Looking Towards the Future

In looking towards the future, Ashley embraces an open-minded outlook. 鈥淚 may be atypical in the fact that I do not have solid future career goals. I feel very passionately about education, and the more I learn, the more I am able to see new possibilities for my career.鈥� 

Though her career path may not be set in stone, Ashley is confident that her time at AU has already made a significant impact on her professional life. With the support of a top-ranked program, a collaborative cohort, and dedicated faculty, Ashley is well-prepared to serve as an innovative leader, making ripples that are sure to transform lives.  

 

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Alexis Williams

The School of Public Health

MS in Epidemiology

"I've always had a passion for data analysis, and epidemiology bridges that with my work in public health."

Alexis Williams is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Epidemiology at 欧宝体育app University. With a passion for public health, data analysis, and social justice, Alexis鈥� journey reflects a commitment to improving health outcomes for marginalized communities. In this student spotlight, she shares her inspirations, challenges, and strategies for balancing her education with a full-time career in public health.

Finding Her Passion in Epidemiology 

Alexis鈥� current role as a Research Assistant for a nonprofit in California serves as the foundation for her academic pursuits. Her work focuses on critical public health initiatives, including computer science education for youth, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education, and HIV prevention advocacy for Black women. These experiences sparked an interest in deepening her understanding of epidemiology, a field that allows her to combine her love for data analysis with her passion for addressing health disparities. 鈥淚 chose epidemiology because I wanted to enhance my ability to understand patterns in public health issues, particularly among vulnerable populations,鈥� Alexis explains. 鈥淚鈥檝e always had a passion for data analysis, and epidemiology bridges that with my work in public health.鈥�

For her, an online program at 欧宝体育app was the ideal choice, offering the flexibility to balance her career in public health with her academic aspirations. 鈥淚 currently live in California, and the flexibility of an online program allows me to balance both my work and education. I can apply what I鈥檓 learning in real time to my work as a Research Assistant.鈥�

Social Determinants and Health Disparities 

One of the aspects of epidemiology that Alexis is focusing on is the role of social determinants in health outcomes. Her work in public health has made her aware of the importance of addressing these underlying factors when studying disease patterns.

鈥淚 am particularly interested in how social factors affect health outcomes,鈥� she says. 鈥淪ocial determinants play a significant role in much of my work, and it鈥檚 crucial to address these health disparities to understand disease spread in populations.鈥� This focus on social determinants aligns with her dedication to improving sexual and reproductive health education, a cause 蝉丑别鈥檚 deeply passionate about. By advancing health equity, especially for marginalized communities, Alexis hopes to make a lasting impact on public health outcomes.  

Applying Epidemiological Skills to Real-World Problems 

As she progresses through her graduate program, Alexis is already seeing the benefits of her studies in her day-to-day work, allowing her to grow both academically and professionally. 鈥淭he skills I gain in epidemiological research, particularly data analysis, are helping me better identify patterns of disease spread,鈥� she shares. 鈥淚鈥檓 already applying many of the skills I鈥檝e learned, like using new statistical software programs that I was previously unfamiliar with. Now, I feel confident in my ability to use many statistical programs.鈥�

 Advice for Future Online Students 

Balancing a job with a demanding master鈥檚 program is no easy feat, but Alexis has developed strategies to stay organized and motivated. For prospective students considering an online program, she offers some advice: 鈥淭he best advice I have is to stay focused and self-motivated. Because online learning lacks the physical space of a classroom, it鈥檚 easy to disengage or feel burnt out. Make sure you have a good balance of work and study and make time for your own hobbies.鈥�

To stay organized, Alexis relies on a well-maintained calendar, noting all due dates and video lectures. This system helps her stay on track, ensuring she meets deadlines while keeping her workload manageable. She also makes a point to step away from her desk for short breaks, which helps her stay focused and avoid burnout.

A key strategy for remaining motivated is finding personal connections to her coursework. 鈥淚 try and find a way to connect every lecture to my work or personal life,鈥� she explains. 鈥淢aking these connections helps keep me engaged and motivated.鈥�

 Life Beyond Work and Study 

Outside of her work and academic responsibilities, Alexis prioritizes activities that help her recharge. 鈥淵ou can find me at the gym! I love listening to podcasts and working out.鈥�
She is also an avid reader, with a particular interest in fantasy books. In her downtime, she enjoys watching anime and crafting, hobbies that offer a creative escape from the demands of her academic and professional life.

 Final Thoughts: Staying Inspired and Engaged 

Alexis鈥� academic journey is a testament to her dedication to public health and her drive to make a meaningful impact. Through AU鈥檚 Master of Science in Epidemiology program, she is gaining the tools and knowledge needed to tackle some of today鈥檚 most pressing health issues, all while balancing the demands of her job.

Her parting advice for prospective students is simple but powerful: stay focused, organized, and motivated. Alexis鈥� story serves as an inspiration to others looking to pursue a career in public health. Her passion for data analysis, health equity, and education is paving the way for a future where she can continue making a difference鈥攐nline, in-person, and across communities.

 

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Mailys Trochez

The Graduate School

Education Programs Coordinator

"I'm eager to bring my diverse experience and skills to a role that will allow me to make a meaningful impact."

At The Graduate School (TGS) at 欧宝体育app, every staff member plays a crucial role in shaping the academic experiences of our students. One such individual is Mailys Trochez, our dedicated Education Programs Coordinator. With a rich background in professional development and a passion for supporting student success, Mailys brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to her role. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Mailys to learn more about her journey, inspirations, and aspirations at TGS.  

A Day in the Life: Education Programs Coordinator 

In her role as Education Programs Coordinator, Mailys is the backbone of many of the initiatives that make TGS thrive. 鈥淚 oversee various educational programs and initiatives, ensuring they run smoothly and effectively,鈥� Mailys explains. This involves coordinating events, managing resources, and providing essential support and guidance to both students and faculty. 鈥淚鈥檓 eager to bring my diverse experience and skills to a role that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in an academic setting.鈥� 

Mailys' responsibilities are multifaceted, ranging from the logistical aspects of event coordination to the interpersonal elements of student and faculty support. Her work is vital in creating an environment where students can excel, and faculty can focus on delivering high-quality education. It鈥檚 clear that Mailys' role is more than just a job; it鈥檚 a calling that allows her to contribute to the academic community in a significant way. 

A Lifelong Passion for Education 

Mailys' journey into higher education was driven by a deep-seated passion for learning and helping others. 鈥淚鈥檝e always been passionate about education and helping students grow,鈥� she shares. This passion is evident in her excitement about being part of 欧宝体育app University鈥檚 vibrant academic community, particularly in working alongside graduate students. 鈥淚 love watching concepts come to life. I鈥檓 also excited to learn from the graduate students here at 欧宝体育app and support their academic journeys.鈥� 

Her enthusiasm for education isn鈥檛 just about imparting knowledge; it鈥檚 about being a part of the transformative process that education represents. For Mailys, it鈥檚 about more than just helping students succeed in their studies鈥攊t's about supporting them as they develop into the professionals and leaders of tomorrow.  

A Creative Journey and an Unexpected Path 

While Mailys is firmly rooted in the world of education today, her journey could have taken a very different turn. 鈥淲hen I was younger, I wanted to be a fashion designer,鈥� she reveals. Growing up, Mailys was captivated by the world of fashion, often poring over the pages of Elle and Cosmopolitan magazines. Although she eventually earned a BA in marketing, her love for helping others with their academic work was always present. 

鈥淚 always loved helping my friends and classmates with their class assignments and grading papers with my language arts teacher. This made me seriously consider becoming a teacher at one point,鈥� she recalls. It鈥檚 fascinating to see how these early interests and experiences have shaped Mailys' career, leading her to a role where she can blend her creative instincts with her passion for education. 

 Words of Wisdom: Making Excellence A Necessity 

 Throughout her professional journey, Mailys has been guided by a piece of advice that has had a profound impact on her life. 鈥淚 remember my high school Biology teacher introducing herself as a 'MEAN' teacher, which stood for 'Making Excellence A Necessity,'鈥� she shares. This approach, which emphasized the importance of striving for excellence, resonated deeply with Mailys. 

鈥淪he pushed me to do my best鈥攅ven when I felt like giving up, held me accountable, and emphasized respect and responsibility,鈥� Mailys says. This lesson in perseverance and commitment to excellence is something Mailys carries with her to this day, both in her personal life and in her work at TGS. It鈥檚 this drive for continuous improvement and lifelong learning that makes Mailys such a valuable member of our team. 

 Looking Ahead: Building Relationships and Creating Impact 

 As Mailys looks to the future, her goals are clear. In her first year at TGS, she hopes to build strong relationships with graduate students, faculty, and staff. 鈥淚 want to gain a further understanding of how processes have previously worked and aim to identify areas for improvement in our programs and services,鈥� she explains. Mailys' vision for the future is one of growth and positive change. She is committed to making a meaningful impact by creating more opportunities for our graduate students. 鈥淚 hope to make a positive change and create more opportunities for student engagement and professional development,鈥� she emphasizes. It鈥檚 this forward-thinking approach that will undoubtedly help TGS continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for all its students.

Mailys' journey to The Graduate School is a testament to her passion for education and her commitment to excellence. Her diverse experiences, from her early interest in creative pursuits to her dedication to supporting students, have uniquely positioned her to make a meaningful impact at TGS. We are excited to see the positive changes and innovations Mailys will bring to our community as she continues to build strong relationships and enhance our educational programs.