Graduate Profile: Gaining Life Skills Through Campus Involvement

To many students at Governors State University (GSU), Anthony "Tony" Begesha is a familiar face, whether he guided their first tour of the campus, helped them adjust to college life, or studied alongside them while working towards his Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Now a 2020 graduate, he's encouraging GSU students to be involved on campus.

"Do not be afraid to get yourself out there and participate on campus. There are multiple events and organizations around that are not only incredibly fun, but will help you develop skills that you will use for the rest of your life."

GSU Newsroom: What brought you to GSU?

Begesha: When I was still completing my associate’s degree at Kankakee Community College, a partner college in Governors State's Dual Degree Program, I heard about GSU over and over again, particularly about how beneficial the smaller class sizes were, and how nice the professors and staff were. I needed to go a university that was not too far away, and when I found out how affordable it was, it seemed like an easy choice to make.

GSU Newsroom: What are some of your highlights from your time at GSU?

Begesha: I have had so many great experiences at GSU that it's hard to say. I was able to connect to old friends and make new ones, and learned a lot of skills through my experiences at GSU. My work in New Student Programs in particular was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, as it helped me grow as a person. I gave tours, spoke on panels, hosted sessions, organized events, and helped new students get used to life on campus. I was even able to practice the skills I learned in my communication’s classes in an internship for the department by working on their social media and communications. I will always remember and cherish the people I met and the moments I had there.

GSU Newsroom: Who are some of the professors who shaped your experience and your future?

Begesha: There were a few who really put me on the path to success. Professor Lydia Hamilton recommended me for the role at New Student Programs in the first place, which ended up helping me a lot personally. I was in few classes of Professor Jillian Klean Zwilling, who taught me a lot about my field in advertising and communications. However, I absolutely have to mention Professor Lara Stache, who helped me step by step in getting my degree. I was in multiple of her classes, she helped me out whenever I had questions about class schedules, she assisted with getting my internship together, and was overall an incredibly positive influence on me.

GSU Newsroom: What's next after graduation?

Begesha: Honestly, I'm not quite sure. The job market is in a state of flux at the moment. I will be focusing on some personal projects for a bit, as I believe it is important to work on self-interests as well as career goals. Who knows, maybe one day I'll work at Governors State myself!

GSU Newsroom: What advice would you give GSU students?

Begesha: Do not be afraid to get yourself out there and participate on campus. There are multiple events and organizations around that are not only incredibly fun, but will help you develop skills that you will use for the rest of your life.