Commencement Spotlight: Brittney Terry

Brittney Terry, a 21-year old native of Charleston, South Carolina will graduate on December 14 with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance from the Albany State University Darton College of Health Professions. 

Terry is actively involved in campus life serving as a member of the Gamma Sigma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Historian for Students Advocating for a Stronger Sisterhood (SASS), a Student Orientation Leader (SOL), and. member of the the Student Activities Advisory Board (SAAB).

As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated, Terry has dedicated herself to community service, volunteering at many organizations impacting the Albany community.

Her achievements include maintaining a 3.5 GPA, and graduating early, earning her bachelor’s degree in less than three years.

Terry’s professional development includes working in the Office of Military and Adult Education as part of the Student Employment and Experiential Learning (SEEL) Program.

Looking ahead, Terry plans to earn a master’s degree in nursing from Emory University in pursuit of becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner.

 

What motivated you to learn more about your field? 
My deep-seated passion for helping others and making a meaningful impact on the lives of children. My goal to become a neonatal nurse practitioner stems from a desire to provide specialized care to some of the most vulnerable patients, newborns. The opportunity to combine compassion with advanced medical knowledge drives me to continue learning so I can provide the best care and contribute to their health and development. 

 

Why did you choose ASU? 
When I stepped on the campus of the Unsinkable and Indestructible Albany State University, I knew this was the place for me. I always wanted to be around people who looked like me and were working toward the same objective of success, growth, and excellence. Being in a community of my classmates and witnessing them achieve their goals motivated me to give it my all. 

 

What do you love most about your chosen profession? 
What I love most about my future profession as a neonatal nurse practitioner is the profound impact I will make on the lives of newborns and their families during such a critical time. Knowing I can provide compassionate care, offer hope, and support their journey inspires me to work hard toward achieving this goal. 

 

Who has made the biggest impact on you and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU? 
My mother has impacted me the most. She has always worked hard and taught me to keep going no matter what obstacles I encounter. I have been greatly impacted by Mrs. Alex Bynum, the director of Military and Adult Education. She has always been a sympathetic ear, a wellspring of wisdom, and a counselor. Working under her for the past two years has allowed me to grow in ways I never would have thought possible. I aspire to be a leader like her, helping people who are most in need.  

 

What advice would you give to other ASU students? 
Some advice I would give ASU students is to GO TO CLASS even if attendance isn’t mandatory, being present can help you understand the material better and build a relationship with professors. Stay organized and use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and deadlines. Your grades are your #1 PRIORITY! Staying on top of the courses you need to take will help with early graduation. Network early, attend career fairs, join clubs, and connect with professors and alumni to build relationships that can help with internships, jobs, and advocacy. Keep an updated resume and portfolio that showcases your skills, projects, and experiences. Last but not least....GET INVOLVED! Join student organizations and balance academics, extracurriculars, and social life effectively because they all will be important. Cherish the moments you have with friends and at ASU because they will fly by! 

 

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education? 
ASU is a place where you can develop intellectually, socially, and professionally while being a part of a legacy that values education and community! There is no other choice but Albany State University! I am forever grateful for the impact MY HBCU has had on me!