Opportunities can find you when you least expect it
Graduate Profile: Krystal Carter
For Krystal Carter, Governors State University (GovState) found her when she least expected it and left a lasting first impression. Finding out more about GovState convinced her to enroll in the undergraduate Psychology program.
Not only will Krystal be walking the Commencement stage this spring as a 2024 graduate, she will also be a Commencement singer.
As this chapter wraps up, Krystal is taking a moment to soak in this sense of accomplishment for pursuing her degree, something that tested her limits and showed her just how far she can go.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?
Krystal: I was attracted to Governors State University first just seeing the building and being shocked that it was here when passing by going to a friend’s house. I became more interested when my God sister came back to finish her masters in Social Work, and I had begun my journey in fall of '21 finishing my associate degree part time. I decided to continue to complete my B.A degree in Psychology here at Governors State University like my God sister and her support got me to a great rolling start.
GovState Newsroom: How did it feel to be chosen to sing at Commencement?
Krystal: It was an honor to be chosen, but once I realized that I WAS ACTUALLY CHOSEN to sing the nerves came in. But overall it will be a pleasure to be a part of the ceremony besides just being a graduate. It's a wonderful opportunity to inspire through the gift of song.
GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with?
Krystal: Upon arriving at GovState in spring of ‘22, I joined Psi Chi and Gospel Choir. In the spring of ’23 I became more active and was invited to join National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and Psi Chi. I thought I was joining Psychology Club when joining Psi Chi but later found out it wasn’t so I decided to reach out and restart the club in fall of '23 and became the President of Psychology Club. I also joined First Generation Students and was recently inducted into the newly recognized Tri-Alpha honor society.
GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?
Krystal: This is a tough one because my journey has been quite colorful, but for the present time the song I would say that would remind of this time in my life is Post Malone- Congratulations. There have been so many times where I questioned what am I still going to school for, I’m too old, I have real responsibilities and this is taking up too much time for me to make money I need right now to live. So to get to this moment and overcome so many tests and trials I am saying congratulations to myself.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Krystal: I want to go into private practice with children (focusing on teens) and family therapy. I also have been looking into being a presenter for mindfulness in the work place. This is a newer integrative topic over the past few years that I believe is an integral part in work life balance and should be introduced in the work place just as it has been presented and learned in life.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Krystal: Remember that you are the future and your wisdom, knowledge, expertise and dreams are needed to create greater opportunities, change and advocacy where it will be most needed. Enjoy the journey, be mindful and present in the moment. Pace yourself and work according to your purpose in life.