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Graduate’s path from academics to career traveled at roadrunner speed

06/02/22

Some students arrive at Dalton State looking for a path, while others begin their college journeys on a route they’ve been planning for years.

Brett Scott, who graduated last month from Dalton State with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, knew the path he planned to follow early in his teenage years. This path led to Scott being hired in a professional business role long before graduation.

"I started my business pathway in high school and absolutely loved learning practical things I could use one day while on the job," said Scott. "Whether I was learning the basics of Excel or business communication skills, it was something that I always enjoyed. Having such early exposure to what I would soon learn in college helped me a lot."

While pursuing his degree, Scott utilized all the opportunities available to him through the Wright School of Business.

“He arrives to campus early and prepares well before class,” said Marilyn Helms, dean of C. Lamar and Ann Wright School of Business. “In my Professional Development class, he happily accepted all my red-pen edits to improve his resume and cover letter.”

Scott excelled in his studies and was recognized for his hard work. He received the Academic Excellence in Logistics and Supply Chain Management award this year at the 47th Annual Honors Convocation and served as a gonfalon bearer during the Spring 2022 commencement ceremony.

In addition to academic recognition, Scott’s dedication to his pathway and eagerness to utilize resources and opportunities at Dalton State resulted in early career success. Scott began as an intern at Mohawk Industries in Calhoun in the purchasing department in May 2021.

“There, I was able to see firsthand what I had been studying for years, and it was one of the best career moves I could have made," said Scott.

Gaining this experience in his field of study was invaluable. Scott excelled in his role as an intern, and Mohawk Industries took notice.

"After being an intern for five months, I was offered a full-time position until I graduated and then was offered a Sourcing Analyst Role after graduation," said Scott. "Accepting that position was a no-brainer for me! The purchasing department has helped me every step of the way and they have been the best coworkers and management team I have ever had.”

Like many recent graduates, Scott completed his degree during one of the most unique and challenging times for students and the entire nation amid a global pandemic.

"Anyone who knows me knows I could talk to just about anyone and removing that from my life was a big ordeal for me," said Scott. "I would definitely say the pandemic took a huge toll on my personal life, and academics became a lot harder. I love being in the classroom more because it helps me stay focused and really learn the material. During the pandemic, that was not an option."

Scott notes having a support system is essential for students, not just during a pandemic but throughout their academic journeys.

"I always say every person that has made it through college, or any program, has had a support group to pick them up and motivate them to keep going, and for me, that has definitely been the case," said Scott. "My grandparents have always been there for me, whether it was taking me out to lunch or just checking on me throughout the day, and my family and friends have always been my biggest group of supporters while I was in college."

Scott also credits the support he received from the faculty in the C. Lamar and Ann Wright School of Business.

"The Wright School of Business has had a huge impact on my life," said Scott. "Dr. Helms especially has always been there to answer my questions, edit essays or help with anything I ran into. Every professor I have had while here has played a part in my growth and development, and for that, I will always be thankful."

Using his experience as a way to help his peers, Scott returned as a guest speaker in the Professional Development course he previously attended to explain the importance of preparing for the job search process, said Helms.

“He’s top rate,” said Helms.

Even dealing with the adversity of accomplishing a degree during a global pandemic, Brett Scott is a shining example of how Dalton State provides an array of individuals with engaging and supportive academic experiences while supplying the knowledge and skills for lifelong success.