Chelsea Barton graduated from Judson on June 26 with an English major and journalism minor.
Q: You’re from Marion, and went to a state university for your freshman year. Why did you come back home?
A: I decided after high school to try something new, go to a larger school and meet new people. But I was always drawn to Judson. My grandmother, mother and several aunts went to Judson, so I had a heritage. At Judson I made new friends from all over the country.
Q: What is the major difference you discovered between the schools?
A: At the university I was in large classes and not all my teachers knew my name. At Judson we have a familiarity with students and teachers.
Q: What did you enjoy most about your Judson years?
A: I took the three-year option and graduated ahead of many of my friends who have a year left in college. I enjoyed traditions like Pageant and Step Sing and through these found a bond with Judson sisters from previous generations.
Q: What would you say to prospective Judson students?
A: At Judson you can serve in leadership positions as I did in the SGA and on the “Scrimshaw” staff. And it’s a Christian school. You don’t have to put your faith in a box. Chapel is a plus with different speakers every week who encourage us.
Q: You did an internship last summer at ABC 33/40 in Birmingham. How did that come about?
A: Judson alum Deborah Pugatch is news director at the station. I worked primarily with “The Talk of Alabama” morning show doing scheduling and guest hospitality and went out into the field with reporters and crew. It underscored for me that this is what I want to do.
Q: What’s next?
A: I’ve been accepted for graduate study in communication at Alabama and Auburn. I’m still praying about what’s best for me. (JC)
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