Daysia Williamson: Opportunities come when you don't expect it
Graduate Profile
Without realizing it, when Daysia Williamson arrived at Governors State University (GovState), she was already on her way towards a marketing degree. She decided to pursue a Business Administration degree to expand her existing marketing experience. Plus, she could stay close to home.
On campus, Daysia interned in the University's Office of Marketing and Communications and the Digital Learning and Media Design (DLMD) team for the weekly news show, This Week at GovState (TWAG).
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?
Daysia: Governors State was a school with a great reputation for academics. It was close to home and offered me an opportunity to pursue a personal goal of moving away.
During my time at GovState, I had the privilege of meeting individuals who consistently showed up as the best versions of themselves—serving the campus community with dedication and heart. I witnessed the labor of love they poured into every interaction, leaving a lasting impact on those around them.
I especially want to highlight Zion Banks, Kylie Ziemenski, Praggyan "Pam" Mohanty, and Heather Penn—four incredible women from diverse backgrounds who each wear many hats. Despite the challenges they may face, they continue to thrive in spaces they’ve uniquely crafted for themselves, and their strength and authenticity deeply inspired me.
GovState Newsroom: What’s your degree and why did you choose it?
Daysia: My degree is in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. I chose my degree while re-doing my resume after graduating from an associate program. I realized I had four years' worth of experience in marketing from personal projects.
GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?
Daysia: I entered into GovState as part of the Dual Degree program, where I received my first work study job from there. I then went on to become the field reporter for the second season of GovState's news show TWAG on campus. During this time, I also managed their social media and helped executively produce the Let’s Talk Segment for the show, while holding the position of Senior Intern in the Marketing and Communications office on campus.
When I began my internship at GovState, I brought a wealth of experience—but lacked the confidence to match it. My three previous marketing internships hadn’t offered much room for growth or meaningful contribution. That changed when I joined the MarComm team. This was the most hands-on experience I’ve ever had in an internship. The team not only trusted me with real projects but also supported me whenever I needed guidance. I collaborated closely with every member of the team and worked alongside professionals from departments across campus.
Because the MarComm office supports the entire university, the workload was intense—I was thrown straight into the fire. But that fire didn’t burn me out; it refined me. It reminded me of skills I had forgotten, reignited my drive, and helped me rediscover the confidence I’d been missing. This internship didn’t just enhance my resume—it reshaped how I see my potential.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Daysia: I would like to work as a Social Media and Digital Marketing Specialist for a company of my choosing.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Daysia: You are worthy. No matter your skillset or what individuals may negate, you have your blessings and opportunities for a reason.
GovState Newsroom: How are you celebrating your graduation?
Daysia: I am celebrating my graduation with the people who were my village throughout my tears, fears, and stressing about my career: My family.