Meet Alyssa Smith
MEET ALYSSA SMITH
From medical school to nursing, Alyssa Smith of Forsyth, Georgia, has followed her passion for direct patient care to Gordon State College (GSC). Now pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), with plans to graduate in May 2027, Smith is making her mark through academic excellence, peer mentorship and hands-on clinical experiences while preparing for a career dedicated to caring for others.
What brought you to Gordon State College?
“I completed my bachelor's degrees in biology and Spanish at Mercer University before attending Mercer University School of Medicine for two years. During that time, I discovered my passion for bedside care and direct patient interaction, which led me to transition from medicine to nursing.
“My brother was attending Gordon State at the time, and he helped connect me with advisers who developed a plan for completing my prerequisites and applying to the nursing program.”
What are some of your proudest accomplishments at GSC?
“I tutor students in the Student Success Center, primarily in nursing, anatomy and upper-level biology courses. I also lead TEAS preparation workshops for students applying to the nursing program.
“I've been named to the President's List every semester I've attended GSC, and I was honored to be selected as Gordon State's student representative at the University System of Georgia Foundation Regents' Gala.”
Who has made a meaningful impact on your Highlander journey?
“Mrs. Joanna Gibson helped me adjust from medical school to nursing. She made sure I had everything I needed to be accepted into the BSN program and succeed in it.
“Dr. Annette Jackson has also been a tremendous help through career advice, pharmacology instruction and connecting me with additional hands-on opportunities, such as assisting with CPR certifications.”
How has GSC helped prepare you for your nursing career?
“Gordon State has helped me build professional connections through guest speakers, including nurses and hospital employees. The simulation labs provide real-world scenarios that help prepare us for clinical rotations and eventually working in a hospital.
“Through GSC's outreach, I also had the opportunity to work as a nurse extern on a cardiovascular step-down unit at a local hospital. These experiences have helped me develop clinical skills, time management and professional communication skills.”
What is one of your favorite memories at GSC?
“Leading the TEAS workshops and meeting prospective nursing students. I enjoy teaching and sharing what I've learned from my own experiences to help others with their educational paths and future careers.”
What's next for you after graduation?
“After graduating, I plan to move full-time to Hazlehurst, Georgia, with my husband and begin my nursing career at a local hospital. I'm especially interested in labor and delivery or mother-baby nursing.”
Tell us something interesting about yourself!
“I have a small farm with three goats named Ernie, Oscar and Snuffleupagus, a miniature cow named Leroy, and a livestock guardian dog named Sitka. My husband and I also have five cats and two dogs that live inside with us!”
What does being part of Highlander Nation mean to you?
“It means being part of a large community that looks after all its students. It means working hard and succeeding in all that you do.”
What advice would you give prospective Highlanders?
“The faculty and staff strive to help students succeed in and out of the classroom. There are so many resources available to help students thrive and achieve their academic and career goals.”