Jayla Smith

Where are you now?

Northeast Middle School in Meridian, MS

Why did you decide to come to MSU and pursue a degree in education?

I decided to come to MSU and pursue my degree because MSU is like home to me. I actually went to the Meridian branch, so I was able to stay at home and keep my job while attending afternoon classes. MSU made school convenient and affordable for me.

What do you want people to know about you?

I want people to know that I'm a determined individual. Whenever I set goals for myself, I do everything in my power to ensure I meet those goals. I'm very passionate about working with kids and helping them learn. The same determination I put into reaching my personal goals is the same determination I put into helping the children I work with meet their goals! Seeing how these children succeed with a little help is truly awesome!

What advice would you give to entering freshmen or students finishing up high school?

Stay focused and keep your end goal in mind! It's okay to hang out and do things here and there, but make sure you're getting your work done! Always do what's best for you! Sometimes you have to miss out on things with your friends to get your business taken care of, and that is okay.