Recently our founder and campus correspondent, Otissia McKinnon, caught up with one of Savannah States elite students. Check out this great interview on Ashleigh Turner. Learn about of her college experience, her inspirations, and how she stepped out of her comfort zone and achieved greatness!
Otissia: How would you describe your college experience?
Ashleigh: Throughout these last 3 years of college I have gone through numerous changes. Those being mentally, physically, spiritually, and even financially. Through it all, it has taught me valuable lessons in which I will forever be grateful for. Each trial that I endured came with a greater blessing.
Otissia: Why did you decide to attend Savannah State University?
Ashleigh: In all honesty, Savannah State wasn’t my first choice but one day my high school guidance counselor asked me if I had ever heard of SSU and she told me to do some research and to get back with her. After scheduling a tour and viewing the campus Savannah State just seemed like a place that would help me grow (which it has) and simply just a place where I should be.
Otissia: As a senior what do you wish you could have told your freshman self?
Ashleigh: Hmmm…As a rising senior I would’ve told my freshman self to make sure that you take care of yourself mentally. The mind is the most powerful tool and college has a way of testing your mind, in all aspects. It’s very easy for you to overthink, which leads to anxiety, depression, etc. Mental health is very, very important.
Otissia: What motivates you to keep going knowing how hard college can be?
Ashleigh: The thought of my future. As my Dad always tells me, “You better have a good job because you have expensive taste”. J
Otissia: What is your favorite part about college?
Ashleigh: My favorite part of college would have to be the opportunity of meeting and getting to know so many people from different parts of the world.
Otissia: What is your favorite memory as a freshman & senior?
Ashleigh: My favorite memory as a freshman would have to be my first college homecoming. My family came down and I literally had the best time of my life. I am entering my senior year of college now so I haven’t had a favorite memory just yet.
Otissia: What advice can you give incoming freshman?
Ashleigh: 1. Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Seek God first in ALL that you do and he will reveal his purpose for your life to you.
2. GET INVOLVED. It so easy for people to come to college and just stick to the routine of going to class and going back in your room. And then complain about college being boring. Getting involved will give you that extra push and make college worthwhile.
Otissia: If you could go back and relive or redo any experience in college what would it be?
Ashleigh: I would redo my sophomore year of college. The transition from being a freshman living ‘up top’ when everything seems to be a breeze and entering sophomore year living in what we call our own ‘apartment’ and still having that same mindset from freshman year is to me, most difficult.
Otissia: Who’s your biggest inspiration?
Ashleigh: My mom. She constantly keeps me encouraged, always gives me advice whether I want to hear it or not, and she pushes me to be the best I can be. Even when I feel like giving up she reminds me of where and who my strength comes from, which is the Lord.
Otissia: What are you most proud of accomplishing in college?
Ashleigh: Running for Miss Senior. I always told myself I would never run for a campus queen position but I decided to step out of my comfort zone and went for it. Everything was so new to me and I felt like I was doing everything wrong but I gave it my all and ended up winning!
Otissia: What is your major & why did you choose it?
Ashleigh: I recently just changed my major from Behavior Analysis to Sociology. I chose Sociology because I want to be an elementary school counselor and open my own practice as well as start up my own non-profit organization for kids.
Otissia: What do you hope to accomplish after graduation?
Ashleigh: Upon graduation, I plan to obtain my master’s degree while working at an elementary school, and then going back to receive my Ph.D.
Otissia: What are three fun facts you would like for our readers to know about you?
Ashleigh: Hmmm, this is a hard question… I’m literally an all-around fun person and 3 facts just simply won’t describe me L
Otissia: If you could change one thing about your college career what would it be?
Ashleigh: I would be selfish with whom and what I spend my time on and with. Wasted time is worse than wasted money.
Otissia: How important is a college education to you?
Ashleigh: Although it took a while to really appreciate and take seriously, I believe that it is very important. It’s the foundation for my future success. “Work hard now so you can play later.”
Otissia: What are you looking forward to for the upcoming year?
Ashleigh: I’m looking forward to meeting the upcoming freshman class, being Miss Senior and of course, GRADUATION!!!!!!