Class of 2024: Student Athlete Macy Sheley

Q&A with Class of 2024 Graduate Macy Sheley, Exercise Science with minor in Public Health from Savannah

by Kathryn Price<_o3a_p>

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Why did you choose Exercise Science as your major? I always knew throughout college and into my future career I wanted to work in athletics as someone with a major passion for exercise. My main intent is to help athletes themselves be able to perform better. I found out about Georgia College's Exercise Science program through my sister, who was also an Exercise Science major. I chose to add a minor in Public Health because nutrition is particularly important to me.<_o3a_p>

And why did you choose Georgia College & State University? I never even toured here! But my siblings went here, and my brother was here at the time. I was between two schools and I let the deciding factor come down to wherever I found a roommate first. Fortunately, that deciding factor lead me here.

Macy is a student athlete and a sister of Kappa Delta. <_o3a_p>

What have you enjoyed doing at GCSU outside of academics? I competed on the Cross-Country team from my first year all the way up to my junior year and decided to take on a role with the team's social media for my senior year. I have also been sister of Kappa Delta, a leader within my campus ministry, and was on the 2022 and 2023 National Women's flag football teams for Georgia College Intramurals, where we won two state championships.

What is it like to be a student athlete? Being a student athlete was one of the hardest but most rewarding things I could have done! Through my learning experiences as a student athlete, I was able to choose to prioritize the things that meant the most to me and things that I had a passion for. <_o3a_p>

What kinds of community service are you involved in? My most memorable community service was when the athletics teams got together to do the Potato Drop. I had no idea what to expect, but came out of it having met other student athletes. I also found out I had made the Cross-Country team that day, which was so exciting for me. I have also done a few community service projects with the Campus Outreach program and the Cross-Country team, leading others through my ministry and gardening at the local high school.

What do you think is your biggest achievement? I would say learning more about Jesus and making him Lord of my life and all other things became accomplishments through him like being able to graduate knowing I have fulfilled my time here at Georgia College. Also my ability to be involved and make an impact in the community here is a big accomplishment by far. And I was just named Georgia College's All-Time Winningest Female for intramurals!

Macy, at left, celebrates graduation with friends. <_o3a_p>

What have been some of your biggest challenges? One big challenge for me was not being in the dorms my sophomore year; I felt distant from everyone compared to freshman year when I was constantly surrounded by others. Though this was a challenge, it gave me an opportunity to dig deep to find real community and get more involved around campus. Another challenge I faced was being a student athlete and learning time management and prioritization.<_o3a_p><_o3a_p>

Who are your favorite faculty? Mike Martino, Professor of Exercise Science and Exercise Science Program Coordinator. He cares about his students and has been a good motivator for me when taking his courses. I would recommend him to anyone needing to take the classes he offers. All the professors are extremely helpful and want the best for their students. With my knowledge of life beyond the classroom, I now have an idea of what I want to do in the future since I have experienced all the realms of college.<_o3a_p>

What advice do you have for incoming students? Try everything and anything, especially the first year. Get to know as many people as you can and dive into things that you want to do, as it is your college experience. Dive into campus ministries and find your true purpose in life. Experience it all. <_o3a_p>

What's next for you, Macy? Attending Clemson University's Athletic Leadership Master's Program. I also plan to be super involved in Clemson's athletic programs and overall campus life. <_o3a_p>

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