Iyana Lathan
Name: Iyana Lathan
Hometown: Columbia, S.C.
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Psychlogy
Lending a helping hand has been the overall theme of Iyana Lathan’s academic career at Coastal. Choosing to study psychology and joining clubs that help students thrive, Iyana has dedicated herself to being a guiding light for those around her. From day one she has pushed herself academically and found her place in #TEALnation.
“CCU has taught me to be a better professional, a better role model for other people, and also just a better leader,” says Iyana.
Being a resident adviser is tough, but rewarding, work. It takes a lot of skill to be able to handle all the facets that go into the job. But for Iyana it is a fulfilling experience that she would never take back. She is able to apply her passion for helping others by making the lives of students a little easier.
“The most rewarding part about being a resident adviser is helping other students learn their way around campus,” explains Iyana. “It’s being that resource for them for things like getting locked out or learning how to use a washing machine.”
But her extracurricular activities don’t stop with her resident adviser gig. Iyana is also a part of the Coastal Activities Board (CAB). Wanting to know more about event planning and the science that goes into staging a big event, Iyana loves working behind the scenes.
“My favorite moment at CCU has been definitely getting involved,” says Iyana. “I joined a lot of different organizations just to see where my boundaries went and how flexible I can be with my different skills.”
Describing herself as bright, Iyana knew that Coastal was much more than the pretty flowers and fountains she saw on her campus tour. Now realizing all that it has to offer, Iyana likes to keep things fresh and new as she experiments with different campus organizations. Only a sophomore, there are many more adventures headed her way. Iyana has already immersed herself in the community and we can’t wait to see how her #TEALnation bonds continue to strengthen throughout the next couple years.
Q&A with Iyana
How did you hear about Coastal?: I found out about Coastal through friends from high school. They were about to graduate and wanted to attend college in South Carolina, but not in Columbia.
Why did you come to Coastal?: Initially, Coastal was not my first choice, but I honestly can’t see myself at any other institution. I came to Coastal on a tour a month before graduation and made my decision that same day.
Favorite professor: Caesar Ross. He was my FYE instructor when I was a public health major.
Favorite class: Theories of Personality with Kim Baker.
Favorite aspect of Coastal?: Coastal gave me a lot of outlets and different organizations to be part of. Membership within these groups helped me recognize skills I have that could help me in my future professional career.
Favorite aspect of living in the Conway/Myrtle Beach area?: The weather and the location.
Clubs/Intramurals/other extracurricular activities involved in?: I was previously involved with Teal Temptation, SHORE Peer Educators and Leadership Challenge. I am currently involved with Coastal Activities Board and Colleges Against Cancer.
Do you work anywhere currently (either on or off campus)?: I work as a resident adviser in Tradition Hall and I am the assistant director of civic engagement for Coastal Activities Board.
Plans after graduation?: After graduation, I plan to work at an alternative middle school and then eventually find employment with the Department of Juvenile Justice.
What are your hobbies?: I love to dance, read and watch “Criminal Minds.”
Bonus Info: I am truly enjoying my time at Coastal. There is still so much I want to do and become involved with.
