Jakayla Bailey
Name: Jakayla Bailey
Hometown: Saint Stephen, S.C.
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Information Systems
Minor: Creative Writing
Jakayla Bailey is a young woman with strong talents. An information systems student, she balances her science-based major with a dose in the arts as she is pursuing a minor in creative writing. This interesting and versatile academic path fits Jakayla well as she is an interesting and versatile individual with a specific plan – more on that later.
Deciding to attend Coastal Carolina University in large part because of its “spirit,” Jakayla notes she felt connected to campus the first day she stepped foot on it in high school. Adding that “teal means a lot to everyone” in the CCU community, she feels that the campus community is truly a family where people feel strongly about others and the University.
Make no mistake about it, Jakayla is a big reason for fostering that family atmosphere. Believing that it is important to “not forget the small things” she makes it a point to let others know that she genuinely cares, even if it just means sending a warm smile their way. Her warm personality and calm demeanor make her a person you want to take a class with or share a meal with at CINO Grille.
As mentioned, Jakayla has a distinct vision for her career. She would love to work at the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) as a systems analyst or STEM outreach coordinator. Jobs at SPAWAR go to the smartest and brightest, a category that Jakayla has found herself in. There is no better outcome than when good jobs go to great people so hopefully Jakayla will make her dream a reality.
Q&A with Jakayla
How did you hear about Coastal?: A family friend attended and I also became aware through the Trident Technical College Upward Bound Math/Science Center, a TRiO program.
Why did you come to Coastal?: I knew I wanted to go to a college that is not too far from home. I also felt connected with CCU the first time I stepped foot on this campus when I was in high school. It also doesn’t hurt that the beach is close to me and the weather is amazing in the spring and summer.
Favorite professor: Anne Ho, Ph.D., Math Dept.
Favorite class: ENGL 301 (Creative Writing Workshop) with Joe Oestreich
Favorite aspect of Coastal? The atmosphere and school spirit!
Favorite aspect of living in the Conway/Myrtle Beach area?: You can never be bored. There is always something to do, scenery to enjoy and Pokemon to catch!
Clubs/Intramurals/other extracurricular activities involved in?: I was on a coed intramural basketball team known as the Ballacudas during the spring semester OF 2016. I am currently part of Women in Computing and PRiDE.
Do you work anywhere currently (either on or off campus)? I am a resident adviser in Tradition Hall.
Plans after graduation?: I would love to work as a STEM Outreach Coordinator or systems analyst with SPAWAR Systems Center Atlantic…or in any other position there, honestly. SPAWAR has been my dream workplace for some years now. I would also love to travel and do work as an extra in movies/television shows.
What are your hobbies?: I play and watch basketball, play video games, watch anime, and write…everything! I can also listen to music for hours straight and not get bored.
Do you have any hidden talents?: I rap, sing, and write my own songs and short stories. Only my family and some of my closest friends know this about me.
Bonus Info: I represent the majority of CCU students who may not be part of 5+ organizations and still care genuinely for others and are just looking to accomplish as much as possible during their college career.