Commencement Spotlight: Shai’Quez Gray
Commencement Spotlight: Shai’Quez Gray, Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Future Plans: Reporter/Videographer, WSST CBS 44 News
Shai’Quez Gray, a Milledgeville, Georgia native, will graduate on December 9 from Albany State University (ASU) with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. He served as a member of the sports broadcast team and produced content for ASU Channel 19 television. While enrolled, he interned with RapCo Media as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) campus reporter, videographer, and photographer.
Shai’Quez has accepted a reporter and videographer position with WSST CBS 44 News.
Why did you choose ASU?
I chose ASU because I wanted to be at a university that was close and far from my
hometown, Milledgeville, which is two hours away. I felt as if this university out
of high school would give me every opportunity to become the greatest version of myself.
What motivated you to learn more about your field?
I had the opportunity at a young age to see a media room. I’ve seen high-end cameras,
expensive mic setups, and software, and the atmosphere was second to none. I love
the everlasting evolution of my field; learning more is truly never a dull moment.
What do you love most about your chosen profession?
I love the competitiveness and the fact that there isn’t just one way to complete
a task. The competitiveness comes from seeing others' creations and trying to build
onto that differently.
Who has made the most significant impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role
model at ASU?
My biggest role model at ASU would be the Mass Communication department. Throughout
my tenure here, I would say Dr. Stephen White exemplified expectations of being a
great role model. Dr. White encourages all of his students that we all have the capabilities
to compete with larger, resourceful universities. He’s always telling us what we need
to know rather than what we want to hear.
What advice would you give to other ASU students?
Persevere and continue to do what got you here. Throughout my journey here at ASU,
I had to create good habits and plan things ahead to achieve graduation and accomplish
goals.
What would you tell a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?
I would tell them to look at the history here at ASU, THE “Unsinkable” Albany State
University, 504 College Drive. The atmosphere and culture on campus are unparalleled.
I was so fortunate to meet so many aspiring leaders and phenomenal professors that
I would encourage anyone to be a part of it.