Jaylon Garner: Making connections that motivate
Grad Profile
I never felt that I was alone throughout my time at GovState and always had a community to lean on when I needed it!
Intro by Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Photo by Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, Staff Writer
For Jaylon Garner, his interest in Accounting began in elementary school when he learned about the field seeing a friend’s parent working as an accountant. He transferred to Governors State University (GovState) as part of the Dual Degree Program (DDP) and since then, he’s gotten involved in Tau Sigma, the national honors society of transfer students, and the Accounting, Finance and Economics Club.
With Commencement coming up, Jaylon is excited to get his bachelor’s degree so he can pursue his master’s degree and take his certified public accountant exams.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?
Jaylon: Before I enrolled my mom had already done a semester here and told me nothing but great things about GovState so I wanted to follow in her footsteps and attend. Also, great programs such as the Dual Degree Program made me want to come.
GovState Newsroom: Why did you choose your degree?
Jaylon: I chose accounting because one of my elementary school friend's parents was an accountant and I was fascinated with the job ever since then. The work is challenging but very rewarding once you figure things out!
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Jaylon: My dreams for my degree are to help inspire other young black children that accounting is a field that they can succeed in and help guide the next generation to such a great career. I can see myself utilizing my degree to end up teaching later in my career as a way of giving back!
GovState Newsroom: What can you get at Governors State University that you couldn't find anywhere else?
Jaylon: You will get professors that will help build personal relationships with you that eventually turn into friendships. My time at GovState has led me to build great connections with professors who motivated me to continue my journey.
GovState Newsroom: President Ester has said that GovState provides a sense of home. What makes GovState home for you?
Jaylon: What makes GovState home for me is knowing that no matter where I am mentally, I know that I will be supported by my friends, professors, and other staff to build myself up. I never felt that I was alone throughout my time at GovState and always had a community to lean on when I needed it!
GovState Newsroom: If you had a song play while you crossed the Commencement stage, what would it be and why?
Jaylon: I would pick Good Life by Kanye West & T-Pain. I think that song is the epitome of the emotions I will feel once I graduate and showcase all the hard work I put into getting my bachelor's degree in accounting. I know that my choices at GovState will lead me to a "good life".
GovState Newsroom: Any advice for current/future students?
Jaylon: Build personal connections with your professors as early as possible because they will help you tremendously as you start your professional career.