Finding Greatness: Teralonjha Byer

Author: News Bureau
Posted: Monday, March 16, 2020 12:00 AM
Categories: Finding Greatness | Pressroom | Students | School of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Macon, GA

A senior in #MGA’s fully online criminal justice degree program with an IT minor, Teralonjha Byer is pursuing a career in cyber forensics. She is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and, while she takes all of her classes online, she is heavily involved in MGA student activities.

Full Name: Teralonjha Byer.

Hometown: Warner Robins. 

Residence: Byron.  

High School: “I attended Perry High School and graduated with honors in 2015. During the course of my studies, I was involved in the following clubs/organizations: National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, AAU Basketball, AFJROTC which I served as Corps Commander my senior year, SLS (Summer Leadership School), Color Guard, Kitty Hawk, APT (Awareness Presentation Team), Beta Club, FBLA, FCCLA & GWRTW (Girls Who Rule The World).” 

Family: Terrellyn Owens-Byer (mother); Terjhan Byer (brother); Berry & Jumba (fur babies/Chihuahua mix)

Employment: “Since fall semester of 2017, I have been employed as a veteran student worker in multiple departments, and I’m participating in a part-time internship with a state agency this semester.” 

Degree Objective: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Information Technology.

Class Rank: Senior.

Primary Campus: “I’m a fully online student as far as classes but you’ll typically find me on the Macon Campus.”

Activities: “At MGA, I am involved with the Campus Activities Board (CAB). Within the local community, I mentor at-risk youth through Big Brother Big Sisters of the Heart of Georgia.” 

Career Goals: “I want to pursue my own business ventures within the world of investigations and/or cyber forensics, in addition to other services within my area of expertise.” 

She chose Middle Georgia State University because … “I initially transferred to take solely online classes with the option to transition in class and remain close to home. Upon switching majors, MGA aligned with my desired schedule to pursue any dreams while completing my degree online by providing resources I specifically sought a university. I have remained enrolled at MGA and am fortunate to be able to complete my degree in my area of interest. I appreciate MGA Direct, especially since it empowers me in completing my degree sooner. Take it from someone who made the President’s List taking 21 semester hours!”   

The greatest thing she discovered about Middle Georgia State was … “Upon transferring and realizing the ease of the online learning format D2L, I fell in love with the school. After being approached with the offer to participate in the VA student work study program, I learned new skills within the jobs performed and I met staff, faculty and students that I would have otherwise not been able to. When I sought study abroad programs to participate in, I was satisfied with the options, as some countries are on my bucket list and the programs provided extracurricular activities to enhance the experience. 

“Throughout my time at MGA, I have been able to assist with CAB for events open primarily to the student body (some are for the community) for events centered around de-stressing during finals and giving back to their fellow students and community, and possibly discovering a new interest through art, dance or media. When I attended an alternative fall break trip with the University, I gave back to the local community through its food bank, orchestrated packages for school children living in poverty, visited a group home to paint a mural and served food to the homeless. If I stayed at my prior University, I would have missed the opportunity to experience everything I have.”

Her greatest academic experience as a Middle Georgia State student has been … “Being inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success, and making the Dean's & President's lists. Prior to attending Middle Georgia State University, I learned proper research methods and have been able to apply what I previously learned with current and future instructional learning. I have also learned that reading is fundamental in making sure you understand and perceive correctly what is being asked of you. Upon leaving Middle Georgia State University, I’ll be graduating with honors and hope to continue in my academic achievements.”

To her, greatness means … “Being your true self and continuing to put your best foot forward in all decisions. Greatness isn’t acquired through hopeless wishes or unattainable goals, but rather a mere desire to make a difference. If you were to desire to do great, you could not without sacrifice, perseverance and hard work. Continuing to put your best foot forward, despite current or past trauma, circumstances or indifference, only helps to push you to greatness. Having the pure desire to help someone out and treating others how you expect to be treated will help you determine if you possess qualities of greatness. I have been through trials and tribulations where I’m able to give a personal testimony of what it takes to be great.”

In five years … “I hope to be establishing some businesses, obtain more licensing and certifications, and continue to build my assets and revenue in an untraditional environment. Since taking my first trip abroad to Italy during high school, my passion to travel the world hasn’t stopped, so whatever businesses I am involved with will allow me the flexibility to continue travelling and providing a stream of revenue. Within the next five years, I may pursue a graduate/professional degree. And who knows, I could also be married!”