Chameka Smith

I made the decision to return to college at 45 years young, driven by a lifelong passion for working with children and their families. I first earned my Teachers Certificate of Completion (TCC) from Sacramento City College while living in California, where I worked as a before- and after-school teacher for the Elk Grove School District. Those experiences strengthened my commitment to early childhood education and affirmed that teaching is truly my calling. After moving back to my hometown Georgia, I earned my Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Southern Crescent College in Griffin, GA. I have always loved teaching young children and creating purposeful, engaging learning experiences that support their growth, curiosity, and development. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia State University has always been the school I dreamed of attending. Ive walked and driven past the campus countless times, imagining myself there. Now, that dream has become a reality. It is truly a magical and humbling experience to be attending GSU and working toward my Bachelors degree in Education, with plans to proudly graduate in Spring 2026.