Jayla Justice

Nutritional Sciences

Transfer student finds a second home in FACS

What school did you transfer from?

South Georgia State College

Why did you decide to transfer to UGA?

Before starting my freshman year of college, I developed an interest in food and nutrition. I learned to love cooking and taking care of my body through food. I discovered dietetics and nutritional science as a major and as a profession. I began looking at programs while taking my core classes at South Georgia State College. I found that UGA's dietetics program and the FACS college were precisely what I was looking for. Many of my family members also attended UGA, which made my decision much easier!

What is your major?

Dietetics

Why did you choose your major?

Most of my life, I was a multi-sport athlete. I suffered a knee injury my sophomore year of high school and had to undergo an extensive knee surgery. It was not until I went thorugh nine months of physical therapy that I realized how important nutrition was. Because I was not able to resume physical activity for nine months, I had to learn to take care of my body in a different way. I found that I had a passion for cooking and eating whole foods. This was something I did not know I loved because I invested all of my time and energy into sports and sports alone. I am so grateful that my experiences have brought me to a major that I truly enjoy learning about!

What activities or student orgs do you participate in?

Student Dietetic Association, UGA Miracle, Phi Mu, Phi U Honor Society, Transfer Ambassador Program

What do you like about FACS?

The FACS college is like a family to me. Each interaction with the FACS faculty and staff leaves me so grateful to be part of a program like this one. As students, we are well-equipped, very cared for, and encouraged to succeed in all that we do. Dawson Hall, where I spend most of my time, has become my second home. I see friendly faces each day I enter the building. The FACS college has many incredible majors that are each unique in different ways.

Is there a faculty or staff person who has been particularly helpful during your transfer journey?

Dr. Emma Laing is the Director of Dietetics for the College of Family and Consumer Sciences. She has played a pivotal role in my transfer journey. I reached out to Dr. Laing during my senior year of high school before having decided that I was going to attend UGA. I was unsure of many things, but her email response was like a breath of fresh air. She emailed me back, treating me as if I was already one of her students. Her guidance and kindness via email helped me decide that the UGA dietetics program would be a perfect fit! Since being a student at UGA and being in her classes, I have seen Dr. Laing go above and beyond for her students. She is very personable and cares for her students like they are her children. Dr. Laing is an advocate for her students and wants them to succeed in life and in the dietetics profession!

What has your favorite UGA and/or FACS experience been?

Serving on the UGA Miracle Sponsorship Committee was such an incredible experience. I hold this time of supporting and fundraising for the kids at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta very close to my heart. I have learned there is a place for everyone on UGA's campus. The opportunity to get involved is not something I experienced at SGSC. I am so grateful that UGA and FACS have welcomed me with open arms!