
ATLANTA – Last week, the Honors College gathered together with students, staff, friends and family to celebrate and honor this fall’s graduating Class of 2024. These graduates began their university experience during Covid, an event which many listed as the most impactful world event during their time in college and which shaped their college experience profoundly.
The students graduating this fall tended to gravitate toward studies in the fields of science, information technologies, the humanities and business. Popular majors included computer science, nursing (closely following by neuroscience and biological science), psychology and finance. Among the graduating class, over 45 students graduated with either an Honors Laureate, a Research Laureate or both laureates.
As Honors College Dean Dr. Sarah Cook said in her remarks to graduates and their families, “many [alums will] have difficulty fitting all [they have] accomplished at Georgia State University and in the Honors College on one page.” To wit, these graduates have a long list of distinctions and accolades, among them are a GSURC winner, a Beckman Scholar, a winner of the Gilman International Scholarship, members of the Golden Key International Honors Society, a GSU Football player, members of the 1913 Society and more. As students, many of these alums studied abroad, conducted research and/or worked internships, and many now have plans to go to grad school or already have jobs lined up in their fields of interest.
More than Academics: The Honors Experience at GSU
When asked about the most impactful aspect of their college experience, these resilient alums talked about building their friendships (many didn’t find their friend groups until Sophomore year), figuring out what they want to do with their lives, adjusting to an urban environment and embracing the diverse population in Atlanta.
And of course, they spoke of adjusting to the academic rigor of the Honors Program – how they enjoyed the challenge of pushing themselves, how much having an Honors College advisor helped them succeed and how interesting their Honors Seminars were.
Graduates talked about learning how to balance school with work and with wellness practices as well as how to become well-rounded. Many commented on learning about themselves, their identity and their passions through Honors Seminars.
When asked about their favorite Honors College memories, many recalled their experiences in these Honors Seminars… everything from an assignment to take a pre-loaded Marta card and ride the train all day to explore the city, to learning how to meditate and be more present in their own bodies and beyond. They also spoke of Honors College student programming: activities like networking events, meeting alumni and receiving mentorship.
Dean Cook wrapped up the evening honoring the love of learning that unites students, staff and faculty at GSU and the Honors College. “The rate of change in our lives is rapid. We must keep learning. While you may have completed a degree, you will never complete your education. Be curious, in the great poet Emily Dickinson’s words, ‘dwell in possibilities.’”
The Honors College at Georgia State University is a destination for high-achieving students who embody curiosity, take pride in their work and dream about how they can make an impact through their studies and careers. Its mission is to serve students in a welcoming space by engaging students’ curiosity, empowering them to achieve their highest potential and inspiring them to find their place in the world. Its students form life-long friendships, participate in community service, perform research, excel academically, explore their interests and chart their career paths.