ATLANTA — Philena Styles (B.A. ’26) spent her time at Georgia State focused on growth and storytelling. As she prepares to walk in commencement exercises, and to complete her degree in journalism, she’s well aware a new chapter in her own story is starting.
A native of the Bahamas, Styles had never visited Atlanta before enrolling at Georgia State. Not knowing what to expect, she said she found her footing in faith, community and academics.
“Being able to put myself in different communities and figure out where like-minded people were put my college experience at a million out of 10,” Styles said.
A student assistant in Georgia State’s Public Relations and Marketing Communications Division, Styles also took advantage of the learning opportunities that come with involvement in campus life. She joined the National Association of Black Journalists at Georgia State, the Christian student group Delight Ministries and Georgia State’s 1913 Society, an elite student ambassador program established by the Office of the President to represent the president and the university at institutional events.
Styles said she developed communication and time-management skills, and broader qualities of acceptance and understanding, through her involvement.
“I always say Georgia State is a place where they have a lot of gifts to give, but the gifts won’t just show up at your front door,” she said. “You have to be involved, and be open to receiving them.”
Having pivoted from a focus on sports journalism to plans to work in marketing and social media after graduation, Styles has found a passion for using her voice to encourage others. And she’ll use the foundation she’s built as a storyteller to do just that.
“I believe in the foundations of journalism, specifically the ability to interview and foster meaningful conversation,” she said. “It will take me a long way in this field.”