STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
MEET KAYLEE
Kaylee started taking courses at SJR State as a dual enrollment student and decided to keep her academic journey going at the College. She expects to graduate in May with her Associate in Science degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Insurance.
“The great thing about this degree is that it is not one dimensional,” said SJR State business professor Joel Abo. “Kaylee has the opportunity to obtain four professional licenses. The QuickBooks Online Certified User license is available through her Computer Accounting Applications class. And she will qualify to get three Florida insurance licenses (FL 4-40, FL 20-44, & FL 2-15) after completing her degree that allows her to bypass the state exams.”
Kaylee also works as a bookkeeper with a local law firm. “The accounting courses in her degree program gave her the basic knowledge and foundation for that job,” Abo said.
Additionally, Kaylee plans to complete her Associate in Arts degree and is considering remaining at SJR State to earn her Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management.
“I like the idea that I can get my college education while still living in the community I was raised in… I have also been able to take several classes with the same professors I have had during previous semesters, and I know I can reach out to them if I need help.”
KAYLEE, WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO STUDY AT SJR STATE?
Because I was still in high school, dual enrolling online at a local college was very convenient. After I graduated from high school, I got a job, and the pandemic forced everyone to take online classes. Once in-person classes resumed, I realized that I liked being able to work and go to school at the same time, which is why I continued taking online courses.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A STUDENT AT SJR STATE?
I like the idea that I can get my college education while still living in the community I was raised in. Even though I am an online student, I visit the Palatka campus for lunch and to see my friends who are taking in-person classes on campus. I have also been able to take several classes with the same professors I have had during previous semesters, and I know I can reach out to them if I need help.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST THING YOU HAVE LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF AS A STUDENT?
I have learned that I prefer to create my own school schedule that can work around my job. While all college students have the freedom to pick their classes and choose their schedules, being an online student allows me to work during the week and study at night and on the weekends. If I were in physical classes, I would not have as much flexibility as I do now.
WHAT IS MOST CHALLENGING FOR YOU AS A COLLEGE STUDENT?
Even though I like making my own schedule, the biggest challenge for me is finding the right amount of time to dedicate to my education and my job as a bookkeeper while still having some free time to relax. Every semester is a little different, so I must manage my time based on how challenging my classes are!
WHAT INSPIRED YOUR INTEREST IN THE FIELD OF BUSINESS/INSURANCE, AND WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER PLANS?
I always liked the idea of working with money, which is why I gravitated toward taking business classes at SJR State. I chose insurance as my business specialization because SJR State’s insurance classes are designed to teach you what you need to know to pass your insurance license exams, and they count as credits toward your degree. After I finish my education, I am considering going into the insurance industry, but I am open to other business-related job opportunities as well.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING THIS PROGRAM?
SJR State’s business program is a great way to get a quality business education in your local community. Anyone who is looking to jumpstart their career, change career fields, or increase their knowledge about the career field they have chosen should consider this program.
Check out SJR State’s Business Administration A.S. degree program at:
https://www.sjrstate.edu/business_admin.html, which articulates into the Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Management.
Apply now for summer and/or fall!
MEDIA CONTACT:
Susan Kessler
Director of Public Relations and Publications
(386) 312-4021