Makayla Puckett, a Jones College alumna from Lucedale, Mississippi, said her time on campus played a big role in shaping her career in journalism, which led her to teaching and traveling abroad.
Puckett said she chose Jones College because of the scholarship opportunities and the chance to step outside of her comfort zone. Coming from outside of the Jones College district, she said she wanted to attend a college where she could meet new people and have a fresh start.
“The scholarship money was really good and I wanted somewhere not a lot of people from my high school were going,” Puckett said. “I wanted to meet new people and have a new experience.”
She said the campus tour, the welcoming atmosphere, and the support from her family during the decision process helped confirm that Jones College was the correct fit.
“My parents and I just knew it was the right place; what sold us were the peanut butter rice krispie treats in the cafeteria,” Puckett said.
While at Jones, Puckett was involved with the Radionian, the student newspaper, an experience she said had a major impact on her academic and professional goals. Working on the paper introduced her to reporting, writing and photography, leading her to change her major to pursue journalism.
“I didn’t even realize how much I loved journalism until I got involved with the Radionian,” she said. “That experience showed me what I wanted to do and gave me confidence in my abilities.”
She gives credit to all of the Jones College faculty and staff for encouraging her and helping her develop both her writing and storytelling skills. She said those relationships and hands-on opportunities prepared her for the next steps in her education.
After leaving Jones, Puckett transferred to the University of Southern Mississippi, where she majored in journalism and public relations. She said the transition was easier than she thought it would be because many of her friends from Jones transferred as well.
“Having people I already knew made a big difference,” Puckett said. “Jones really prepared me academically so I felt ready.”
Now living in Madrid, Spain, Puckett teaches English while continuing to create content focused on travel and storytelling. She said living abroad has helped her grow both personally and professionally.
“Living in another country teaches you to say yes to opportunities, even when they feel uncomfortable,” Puckett said. “You learn so much about yourself.”
She said her experiences at Jones helped her for life beyond the classroom by teaching her how to communicate with people from different backgrounds.
“Jones helped me learn how to connect with others,” she said. “That’s something I use every single day.”
Puckett encourages current Jones College students to get involved on campus and take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
“Say yes,” she said. “You’re either going to love it or you will learn from it.”
She said Jones College will always hold a special place in her heart and hopes future students make the most of their time on campus.
Puckett shares her travel experiences through her Instagram account, @mac.onthemove, and her blog, https://makonthemove.wixsite.com.
by Savanna Edwards
