Why did you choose Georgia State?
I chose Georgia State because of the location downtown. I wanted to be on an urban campus, and that’s exactly what Georgia State is. On top of that, you’ve got the affordability and access factors. I always knew about Georgia State growing up in Atlanta, so it was a somewhat familiar and easy choice. It was close to home, but not right next to home. Since being here, I have just fallen in love with the university. All the extracurricular opportunities that I’ve been able to take advantage of have really deepened my appreciation for it.
Which clubs and organizations have you been involved with here, and what have your roles been?
I was a tour guide at the Welcome Center for four years. I’ve also been an ambassador in The 1913 Society, which has been fun. I was a director with Spotlight Programs Board and planned campus events. I was also a student justice with the Student Judicial Board for one year during the pandemic. And I was a cheerleader for two seasons for football and basketball, from 2019 to 2020.
How have you managed your social calendar alongside your coursework?
I did a lot of those things at the same time, which was crazy. I think because it was so fun doing those things outside of class, it didn’t feel like work. It felt social. I was having fun. I think surrounding myself with like-minded people in those organizations who wanted to have fun but also took school seriously helped to balance those things.
What do you see yourself doing in the future?
I plan to move to New York next year. I don’t have specific job plans, but I’ve always wanted to move there. Both sides of my family are from New York, and I have an amazing opportunity with my sister leaving her apartment. I’m going to take over the lease and live in the exact same building that my dad did, so that’s exciting!
Would you recommend Georgia State to future college students?
Yeah — absolutely! Georgia State is the best university in the country. I’ve had such an amazing time here. Georgia State has always been present for me throughout all the things that have happened in my life since 2017. I’ve been reminded of how supportive an institution it is, and how it’s willing to change with the times. The Georgia State I enrolled at in 2017 is not the same Georgia State I’m about to graduate from in 2023, and that’s amazing. The things I’ve experienced in my time here have given me the skills I need to move to New York on my own and not feel apprehensive about it. My only emotion is excitement because I know that my experience here has prepared me to tackle the world.
Let’s take it back to “first-year Ausar.” What advice would you give him?
Oh, to talk to first-year me! I would say, “Put your life jacket on because this boat is going to be rocky! Be ready for change. Keep your friends close; they’re your support system. Do everything, and get your feet wet. If you think it sounds cool, go to the club meeting, enroll in the class. The world is your sandbox, so play in it. Build your network, mindfully, and don’t become friends with everyone just because. Have fun, and get ready because it’s going to be all right.”
