19-year-old Kayla Davis always knew she wanted to attend college. She pictured herself at a large four-year university where she’d be able to embrace campus culture and learn in a consistent environment—something she wasn’t able to do during her high school career.
“I continuously went back and forth between high schools,” says Kayla, as she recalls her family moving a lot when she was younger. “It was overwhelming because I had to keep acclimating myself to new places, making new friends, and getting accustomed to different educational styles.”
She was determined to have a seamless college journey, hoping to attend The University of Alabama or Hampton University.
But when she graduated high school, she was faced with reality.
“I knew that I wouldn’t be able to afford college,” says Kayla. “I also didn’t want to have to use student loans.” So, she weighed her options and redirected her plans.
Kayla is now heading into her second year at Germanna, where she studies administration of justice, hoping to pursue a career in law enforcement.
And while she’s happy with her decision to attend Germanna, she admits to facing judgment from others for choosing the community college route.
“Most of my family looks down on community college. They don’t consider it to be on the same level as a typical four-year university. But Germanna was the best option for me, and I’m happy with the path that I chose for myself,” she says.
Truly immersing herself in the Germanna campus culture, Kayla became active in student clubs and organizations during her first year as a student, joining the College’s criminal justice club and black student union.
“I also really wanted to join the Student Government Association during my first year,” says Kayla, who was passionate about making a change in the student experience. “I decided to run for office and ended up winning the position as president for the upcoming school year.”
As SGA president, Kayla will lead the Germanna student government and act as a voice for the entire student body. She also plans to help create a university-like feel around campus and facilitate events that engage and excite students.
“I just want those students like me, who always wanted to go to a four-year university, to feel like they’re not missing out on that experience by being at Germanna.”
When she’s not completing schoolwork or attending on-campus events, Kayla dedicates 40 hours a week to her job, where she works at a warehouse. She is also a member of the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office Cadet Program, which gives young men and women the opportunity to train and work with a wide range of law enforcement procedures.
As she heads into her last year at Germanna, Kayla is excited for her leadership position in SGA and looks forward to making an impact on the College community.