Meet Our First-Gen Alumni

Tyrone Smiley

Degree: BA in Communication; MPA- Public Administration
Graduation Year: 2009/2012

Your First-Gen Experience:

"As a first-generation college student, I was unaware and unfamiliar on how to navigate this new environment and form the needed connections to become successful. It is like entering unfamiliar territory and being expected to thrive and succeed like your peers and counterparts without assistance or direction. Thankfully, I was able to find my sense of belonging and community from various outlets within the campus community which enabled me to perform well academically and socially at Jacksonville State University."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"My experience as a first-generation college student at Jacksonville State University not only helped my progression through my undergraduate career but it also offered resources which supported my success as a first-generation graduate student. Upon graduation, I was able to obtain employment in my desired career field, engage with other first-generation college students, and become an advocate for other incoming students who share in a similar experience."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"Jacksonville State University will forever have a special place in my heart. As a first-generation Black man, it was important that I found my sense of belonging within the campus which aided in retention and persistence to graduation. I was able to find this belonging from the faculty and staff that took an earnest interest in my success. In addition, the campus community offered a plethora of resources (fraternity and sorority life, student government association, and housing and residence life) for me to get involved and invested into my institution. Both of these factors are why I support the university and advocate for future students to enroll become a part of an impact and rewarding experience." 

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"One major misconception that I had about college was that it would be similar to my high school experience. While I excelled tremendously in high school graduating at the top of my class, the rigorous coursework in college is vastly different. It took a serious amount of discipline and self determination to grasp the coursework and seek assistance when needed. While in high school, everyone was taking the same courses from the same instructors, so it was quite simple to seek aid from fellow peers, however, college requires students to make connections with their instructors and take advantage of the tutorial programs that are offered.I am not sure if I had a misconception, but I didn't realize what type of challenge college was going to be. Finding balance when entering college is a key to my success. Enjoy the college experience. As the saying goes, you will get out of it what you put into it. "

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“While you might feel as though you don’t belong and it is quite difficult, don’t give up. Each student is admitted on the basis of their own skills and talents therefore it is a reason each student is here at Jacksonville State University. I would highly encourage other first-generation college students to make connections with their professors, advisors, and most importantly within the campus community. These three tenants are the main reason why I was able to succeed and do well and I believe it will aid others in their success as well."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"Undergraduate: Vice President of the Student Government Association, Student Government Association Senator, Freshman Forum, Resident Assistant. Professionally: Elected- NASPA Region III Chairman of the African American Knowledge Community; President- Jacksonville State University National Alumni Association. Doctoral Candidate- University of Georgia College of Education Student Affairs Leadership Program."

Ruth Swain Upton Moseley

Degree: Elementary Education
Graduation Year: 1945

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I am the youngest of 9 children. I started at Jacksonville State Teachers College in 1942 when I was only 17 years old. Dr. Houston Cole was just beginning his term as school president. Enrollment was greatly reduced during the years I attended due to WWII, and the female students really outnumbered the male students. During my school years, I lived with my Aunt Hester Hamric's family near the corner of Mountain and Forney Streets where apartments now stand, and helped out at Hamrics Grocery Store which was where the Jacksonville Bookstore is now. I earned money for my tuition by working in the library for Mrs. Ramona Wood." 

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"I taught school in Gadsden for 5 years before getting married and moving to Roanoke, Alabama, where I taught for many years. Three of my four children graduated from JSU, as have many of my extended family, including my great-great-niece, Taylor Cochran, who works in Alumni Relations."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The college was small back in the days when I attended, and it was possible to know everyone. Even though the campus and enrollment are vastly larger now, JSU has maintained the same friendly atmosphere that it had so many years ago."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

"Being a first-generation student means your family may not be able to relate to your experiences or provide advice for some of the problems you may encounter. It is important to develop a support group of friends and mentors to help you along the way."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I am most proud of being able to touch the lives of so many young people over the years. Living in a small town means that I often taught the children of former students. I still hear from many of my students from years past, who share their memories of time spent in my classroom."

Kathy Marie Bell Pope

Degree: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2013

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I began at JSU in dual enrollment as a high school senior in 1999. In 2000, I found myself a pregnant, single teen. My professors were very encouraging. I ultimately finished the semester before my due date, but was unable to immediately return due to some health issues with my son. It was 10 years later before I returned to JSU, and the professors were still just as encouraging, even allowing my son to attend some classes with me on days his medical treatments didn't allow enough time for me to take him home before class."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"Since graduating in 2013, I decided to pursue my original dream of law school. I thought being a teen mom had probably ended that possibility, but the confidence I found by completing undergrad at JSU gave me the confidence to keep going. I attended Birmingham School of Law, graduating in December 2017 and passing the Bar Exam in February 2018. I practiced law under another local, senior attorney for about two years before opening my own law office. I now have offices in Heflin and Oxford. I handle a variety of civil and criminal legal issues."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The professors often take a genuine interest in seeing their students succeed. Several of my professors went above and beyond to encourage me and help me get the support I needed." 

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"I thought I could blend in with the crowd and no one would notice or even care once I found out I was pregnant, and I didn't think anyone would notice if I just quit. Several professors called me at home and made sure I didn't get behind in class. They didn't give up on me, and that kept me from giving up on myself."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“You can accomplish anything you truly set your mind to do. It's ok to take a break or even get a little side tracked, but don't quit. The faculty, staff, and alumni of JSU are all cheering you on and anticipating your future successes. Education is invaluable and a privilege that you should embrace. Set goals and follow through."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I graduated from JSU cum laude. I graduated from Birmingham School of Law as an Honor Graduate and top 10% of my class while working a full-time job and taking care of my family. I passed the Bar Exam on my first attempt, and immediately started my career as an attorney. By pursuing my dreams, I am now in a position to help others in difficult situations, and I get to use my experiences to encourage and support those that may now be where I used to be when I needed help. I am proud of the opportunity and education I received, and I hope to continue to be a blessing and encouragement for others."

Anthony Glen Caldwell

Degree: Bachelors and Masters in Emergency Management
Graduation Year: 2020

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I began attending JSU in the Fall of 2003 as a traditional student. My original intention was to major in Criminal Justice and become a game warden. After my Junior year I actually dropped out and completely shifted gears towards Fire and Emergency Medicine. While away from JSU I gained certification as both a Firefighter/ Fire Instructor and a Paramedic. After working in the field for a number of years I went back with renewed focus and graduated with my Bachelors in Emergency Management and a 4.0 gpa in the College of EM. After a few years of working I decided to return for grad school. As of May 2020 I hold both a Bachelors and Masters Degree in EM from JSU and have never made less than an A in any EM course. After my nearly 2 decades of being affiliated with the University I can attest to it’s reputation as both the Jem of the Hills AND the friendliest campus in the south."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"Since graduation I have been hired as a faculty member at Southern Union State Community College. I now teach in the same program I started my Emergency Medicine career in. "

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The beautiful campus and the amazing faculty and staff." 

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"That I would be overwhelmed and unable to handle the pressure."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“Be proud of where you came from and even more proud of where you’re going!"

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I’m very proud of my Masters Degree. After my Bachelors I thought I was finished. I feel as though my Masters really shows how driven I am to becoming a leader in community assistance, both in emergencies and in the field of education."

Donnie Ray

Degree: BS Biology
Graduation  Year: 1992

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I was very fortunate to have great teachers in high school that helped me prepare for college. My teachers helped me enroll, apply for scholarships. JSU advisors helped me transition to college."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"After graduation, I started work in a local carpet mill and worked my way up into management. 4 years ago I was able to get a management position with Lodge Cast iron."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

I like many things about JSU but the teachers and staff were very friendly and helpful during my years of study.

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

For me I didn't realize the amount of studying required to be successful as a student. I came from a small high school but was somewhat overwhelmed my first Year.

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

"Set aside regular study times and ask for help if you don't understand any course work. The teachers can help you be successful."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

Do your research on a major. Look at the job outlook for a major you are interested in taking. Also research for those jobs near your home if you plan on staying close to your family.

Baylee Spoon Pope

Degree: BS in Emergency Management
Graduation Year: 2019

Your First-Gen Experience:

"Being a first-generation college student was both a challenge and a blessing. My parents and I had so much to learn when the time came for me to start applying for college. We didn’t know much about financial aid, the FASFA, scholarships, applications, etc. I really didn’t know what to expect when my first day at JSU came around. Admittedly, I had a difficult time adjusting. When my graduation day came, I left JSU with a degree that wasn’t just for Emergency Management. To me, my degree represents personal growth, resilience, and triumph. I didn’t just get a degree for myself, it was for my parents too."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"A few months after graduation, I accepted a position with the Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency. So far, my career has been filled with learning experiences. In the fairly short time that I have been at my job we have dealt with COVID-19, tornadoes, winter weather, and many other events. My experience at JSU laid the foundation for me to be successful in my career."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"My favorite thing about JSU was the small-town atmosphere. I never felt like I was just a number. My instructors and professors always made me feel like they truly cared about my academic success."

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"I thought that college was going to be extremely hard. I thought that my instructors were going to be extremely strict. I didn’t expect them to be as kind and caring as they were."

Advice for Current First-Gens:

"The best piece of advice I could give to a first-generation college student is to give yourself grace. I struggled for most of my freshman year. I made things even worse on myself because I didn’t give myself any grace. Its okay to not have a 4.0 your first semester. Or even your first year. Or even until your last semester, like me. Coming to college is the biggest life change you will have probably ever made. Strive to do your best, but if your best isn’t a 4.0, its okay. Work hard and apply yourself, but you don’t always have to be perfect. Not only will you be dealing with your classes, you’ll be dealing with new social situations, possibly new living situations, and so much more. Just take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and keep pushing forward."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I’m most proud of how hard I worked to get to where I am. I graduated cum laude and with special honors in my major. I did that while working 30-40 hours a week, being in a sorority, and having multiple internships. I don’t say any of this to brag, but I worked so hard to get my degree and now my career. Hard work beats talent almost every time."

Catherine (Carrie) Hicks Pope

Degree: BS Pre-Health Professional Studies with a Minor in Chemistry
Graduation Year: 2010

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I come from a very small family of just three, my mom, dad and myself. My parents started from day 1 discussing with me how important a college education would be for my future. Both of my parents made sure that ultimate goal became my reality. They encouraged me early on to set my eyes on a career and make that dream happen. With that being said, their advice on what to do once I started that path was very limited. However, their encouragement and positivity was never lacking. I made very quickly the decision to attend a smaller university prior to doctoral enrollment to allow myself a more one on one experience since I knew my education came first. Little did I know what all JSU would provide for me in the long run. As a first generation college student/graduate, my college education has by far been the most rewarding. JSU provided me with every skill I needed, not just educationally, to pursue my long term goals. I became who I am today because of the lessons and experiences taught to me by professors, classmates, sorority sisters, work study, organization colleagues, and the entire Gamecock family. Many of my interview questions to continue on in higher education came from my experiences from JSU, which inevitably set me apart from others interviewing. I owe so much to my parents for their support and love along with that of the JSU community for this wonderful lifetime experience."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"Since graduation, I continued my education at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2015. I started practicing in Pensacola, FL at a 7 doctor practice. After two years, I moved to Opelika, AL where I currently reside with my husband, Scott, and work nearby in Columbus,GA at a 4 doctor practice. I have been working here as a full time veterinarian focusing mostly on small animal (dog and cat) with the occasional pocket pet (ferret, hamster, rabbit,etc) and exotics (mostly reptiles or birds). At times I get to assist a colleague on her farm with goats, chickens, and cattle which is always a fun experience. When we are not working, Scott and I enjoy traveling and sporting events."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"JSU will always be known to me and anyone I speak to about it as “the friendliest campus in the south” because it is the truth. I never met a stranger, professor, classmate, administrator, etc, who was not friendly. I felt entirely comfortable and safe at all times.

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"A huge misconception about college I had was that ALL my time would be spent focused on academia. However, once arriving on campus I became interested in campus organizations (SGA, sorority life, etc). My biggest concern however was how can I manage organizations plus work study plus class loads. Fortunately, work study and the organizations first priority was making sure education came first! These organizations helped me learn time management along with social skills that have flourished into my current occupation. I am so beyond blessed I was able to take on a few extracurricular activities (even if it was just one group, or even a workout class) to allow me a break from studying as well as to meet so many new people. In the long run, obviously academia comes first, but one should always give themselves time to do something else they enjoy!"

Advice to Current First-Gens:

"Don’t be scared to take a leap of faith. Go to the college away from home, join an organization, talk to a stranger...don’t be scared to go out of your comfort zone. This new life change will be different compared to anything you’ve ever experience, it could be good, bad, or ugly. However, the experience is what you make from and take from it. As a first generation college student/graduate, my decision to leap paid off more than I ever expected."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I set my eyes on a career goal and achieved it. Since I can remember my ultimate goal was to become a veterinarian. Now any goal comes with its own set of bumps in the road. Mine started in high school. I was told 'going to a small university will prevent you from getting into vet school' or 'you’re making the wrong decision but choose what you want.' This coming from a guidance counselor! However, I had a goal and kept going. My choice to go to a smaller university set me aside while interviewing for vet school. Then the big question of 'how am I going to pay for college' pops up. Scholarships are out there for the taking. You just have to give it the time it deserves to research and submit to these scholarships. I was able to get scholarships to pay for most of my undergrad career. Set your goals and you will find ways to achieve it! Don’t let fear nor negativity stop you!"

Matthew Lee Whitehead

Degree: Music Education
Graduation Year: 2017

Your First-Gen Experience:

"My experience was truly life altering. It was an incredible honor to be the first in my immediate family to attend any type of university, let alone graduate from one. It was a rewarding process, especially seeing how proud my parents were of me during the process. It was also nerve racking having that much pressure of being the only one in my family to pursue higher education and the need to succeed doing so. Overall, it was a fantastic journey that I would do all over again!"

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"Since graduating, I have started my teaching career and am finishing up my second year at a school in northeast Alabama named North Jackson High School. I got married to my wife, Julia, and we had our first future gamecock named Shepherd this past February!

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"JSU has always been the embodiment of the friendliest campus in the south. The people I met during my tenure there still have an impact on me now. My closest friendships, my marriage, and my most sincere professional relationships all started at JSU." 

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"Definitely how much hard work it is! Nothing could have ever prepared me for those early 8:45 am classes."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“Always remember that there are more people rooting for you than yourself. You always have someone or something else to work for. And if you don’t feel like you have anyone else, make sure to find someone!"

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I was awarded a full tuition scholarship upon acceptance to JSU, graduated with special honors in my major, and then interview and was hired to the first teaching job I applied to. With a little hard work and dedication, anything is possible!"

Connie Jane Tucker Long

Degree: Bachelor of Arts
Graduation Year: 1978

Your First-Gen Experience:

"My only brother Eddie Tucker 1969-1973 led me to follow attending JSU. He past away five years ago however he was our first-generation college student. He was commissioned through ROTC and served 25 years in the US Army and retired as a Lt. Colonel. We both loved our time spent at JSU. I was there from 1974-1978."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"I graduated December 1978 and started full time January 1979 with First Alabama Bank now Regions Financial Corporation. I worked many decades in training that allowed me the opportunity to develop skills and talents in others! Through job consolidation I elected retirement June,2018 with 39.5 years to one employer. Now enjoying retirement with my husband of twenty-five years and being there for my 90 year old mother."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to grow and develop life long friendships. I loved living on campus, being involved in SGA and feeling a part of a great university." 

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"That it would be easy to leave home. However with the support of professors, dorm mates, church members I was able to overcome being homesick and four years later I didn’t want to leave."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“Give yourself time to fit in, reach out and be open to new opportunities. Be open, try new things and reach for the sky!"

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"Involved in SGA, to this day I am active in community affairs. My faith was lifted through the love given at First Presbyterian Church where I was allowed to serve as a Sunday School teacher for fourth graders."

Stacey Bouldin Mikel

Degree: BSN
Graduation Year: 2008

Your First-Gen Experience:

"I obtained an Associate Degree in Nursing from a local community college and then immediately enrolled in the JSU RN-BSN program. I was working full time as a registered nurse and caring for three young sons, but the flexibility JSU offered made it possible for me to obtain my BSN degree in one year. It was always important to me to finish college because neither of my parents had the opportunity to do so."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"Since obtaining my BSN at JSU I have gone on to complete my MSN, post-graduate certificate in Nursing Education, and my DNP all at JSU."

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The friendly instructors and the flexibility!" 

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

“Even when it seems out of reach, keep pushing forward. I took a year off from school, which turned into 5 years but I have still been able to complete multiple degrees! It was hard at times and I wanted to quit but I knew I needed to be an example for my children."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"I am proud that I finished multiple degrees while working full time and raising a family."

Jason Vincent Sanders

Degree: Bachelor of Arts - Communication
Graduation Year: 2004

Your First-Gen Experience:

"We couldn't afford college, so after graduation I worked full-time at the local grocery store. Thankfully, a teacher I knew insisted more from me. She gave me the name and number of the scholarship coordinator at the local community college and instructed me to call her every day until I got something. I did, and 6 weeks later I was awarded a full scholarship to Northeast Alabama Community College.

"When I graduated NACC, I knew JSU was next, but finances were still a concern. I decided it was too late to turn back, so I took out student loans. Thankfully, my first semester at JSU a professor announced the football team had scholarships available for student workers. I applied and was hired the same day with a another full scholarship!

Both scholarship opportunities really allowed me to take advantage of my education and paved the way for the success I've had today."

Your Journey Since Graduation:

"After JSU, I really wanted to earn a master's degree and continue working in college football. Learning from my prior experience, I wrote 40 letters to different universities across the country asking for a graduate assistantship. I received 3 responses, one no and two offers! I accepted a position with the Mississippi State football team (2005-2006) and graduated with a Masters in Sports Administration in the Spring of 2007.

"My first full-time job was with the University of Oklahoma football team (2007-2010). During my time at Oklahoma we won 3 Big 12 Championships and participated in the national championship game. 

Next, I worked at the University of Connecticut (2011), followed by the University of Akron (2012-2016). My last college athletics job was at the University at Buffalo (2017), where I served as an Assistant Athletic Director.

"I transitioned out of athletics and returned to the University of Akron to work in development, where I have the opportunity to help students just like me achieve their dreams in higher education. The University offers a very generous tuition benefit, so I am proud to share in addition to my full-time work, I'm finishing up my second year of law school part-time!"

Your Favorite Thing About JSU:

"The size of the student body! It was large and diverse enough to get needed exposure to other ideas and lifestyles while also being small enough that you didn't feel lost in a sea of people. I also had a great experience with every professor. Most importantly, I met my wife Amy thanks to JSU!"

Your Biggest Misconception About College:

"That I would be able to sleep in every day! It was quite the shock seeing required classes scheduled at 8 am and knowing I had to register for it."

Your Advice to Current First-Gens:

"Don't be afraid to ask for help and most importantly, when you do ask for help, follow through with the advice you're given. It would've been easy for me to throw away the scholarship coordinator's phone number, or to go hang out with friends instead of applying for the job with JSU football. My efforts paid off big time."

Your Proudest Accomplishments:

"My proudest accomplishment is persevering through my family's financial struggles to put myself in a position where I can help others who are experiencing the same challenges."