Jaymes Squires worked hard to juggle a full-time job and a growing family while pursuing his academic ambitions. His perseverance paid off, and Jaymes will graduate from 鶹ƽ State with a bachelor's degree in general studies in December.
Jaymes is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2024 graduation. Learn more about his time at 鶹ƽ State and what's next for the grad.
Major
Bachelor of General Studies
Hometown
Anaheim, California
Why did you choose 鶹ƽ State University?
I chose 鶹ƽ State University because of its convenience. It offers all the classes online I need.
What has been your biggest challenge as a student? And how did you overcome it?
I am legally blind and have a full-time job as director of dining services at Kidron Bethel Village (in Newton, Kansas), so time management was a big challenge. I spent the most important time with my family. There were a lot of sleepless nights, but with hard work and an understanding wife, I was able to do it.
What are your favorite on-campus and off-campus spots?
I have not spent much time on campus, but my favorite spot is anywhere I can be with my wife and son, usually our home.
If a movie were made about your life, who would you cast to play you? And what genre would best capture your story?
I am not quite sure who would play me, but it definitely would be a comedy.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am going to continue my current career and have already been accepted into the Certified Dietary Manager program at the University of North Dakota. Once my son is a little older, I will pursue my master's degree in orientation and mobility.
What advice would you give other 鶹ƽ State students?
Just stay working hard and never give up on yourself.
About 鶹ƽ State University
鶹ƽ State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. 鶹ƽ State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), 鶹ƽ State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the 鶹ƽ State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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