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Graduating from college is a significant milestone, and Bre’Ijaha Swain-Garland, a recent graduate of Mercer University, reflects on her journey and future aspirations. With a Bachelor of Arts in English, she is taking a thoughtful approach to her next steps. Planning to take a gap year, Bre’Ijaha aims to focus on her mental health and personal growth, ensuring that she enters her next chapter with clarity and purpose. This year will serve as a time to recharge and work toward smaller goals she has set for herself, paving the way for her ambition to pursue a master’s degree in health sciences or public health, ultimately leading her toward medical school.
Impactful professors and transformative experiences
Among the many influences in her academic life, Dr. Arielle Stambler, an assistant professor of English, stands out as a profound inspiration. Bre’Ijaha describes her as a guiding force who created an intellectually stimulating yet compassionate classroom environment. Dr. Stambler’s classes not only challenged her to think critically and write clearly but also emphasized the importance of engaging with complex texts. The respect and care she showed for her students created a space where learning felt collaborative and empowering. Bre’Ijaha carries the lessons learned in Dr. Stambler’s classroom into her future endeavors, cherishing the belief that education is about growth and community.
Memorable moments at Mercer
While no single memory defines her time at Mercer, the experiences that resonate most are those spent with friends during campus activities, late-night study sessions at the library, and spirited football games. These moments fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and belonging. The shared laughter, the late nights spent discussing everything from exams to life, and the collective excitement during campus events created bonds that Bre’Ijaha will cherish forever. It’s these seemingly simple interactions that make the college experience truly unforgettable.
Transformative classes and personal growth
Among her favorite courses, Bre’Ijaha highlights the introduction to postcolonial studies with Dr. Stambler. This class reshaped her understanding of literature, identity, and the dynamics of power. It opened her eyes to the complexities of global histories and the lasting impact of colonial legacies. Engaging with powerful readings and deep discussions helped her connect her academic pursuits with her personal identity, reinforcing her purpose as a storyteller and student. Such transformative experiences extend beyond academics, shaping her worldview and aspirations.
Making an impact through compassion and advocacy
Bre’Ijaha firmly believes that it is the people who change the world. Her intention is to make a difference by embodying compassion, standing against injustice, and using her voice to uplift those around her. Whether through her future in medicine, writing, or community activism, she aims to empower individuals to recognize their worth and potential for transformation. This commitment to service is a testament to her values and the lessons learned during her time at Mercer.
Advice for future students
For those navigating the challenges of college, Bre’Ijaha offers heartfelt advice: grant yourself grace. College is about more than just grades or a rigid plan; it’s a journey of growth and self-discovery. Acknowledging that there will be tough days is vital. She encourages students to lean on their support systems, seek help when needed, and embrace their unique paths. The unpredictability of college life can lead to incredible personal development, making one stronger and more resilient.
The Mercer experience: a sense of belonging
What Bre’Ijaha cherishes most about Mercer University is its strong sense of community. Here, every student is valued as an individual, not just a number. The small class sizes foster close relationships with professors, and the friendships formed during her studies have created a home-like environment. The support from peers and faculty has been instrumental during challenging times, reinforcing the idea that students are never alone in their journeys. Mercer has not just been an educational institution for her; it has been a nurturing space for personal and academic growth.
As she looks ahead, Bre’Ijaha Swain-Garland carries with her the wisdom and experiences gained at Mercer, ready to embark on her next chapter with confidence and a desire to make a meaningful impact.