New beginnings: EGSC launches Bachelor of Business Administration Program, welcomes returning student

This semester, East Georgia State College (EGSC) marked an exciting milestone with the launch of its new Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree program, designed to empower students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive world of business. Building on the College’s most popular associates degree program, the expansion of the program as a bachelor’s degree provides a pathway for students to complete their business education at EGSC rather than transferring to another institution.

The launch of the BBA program not only provides exciting opportunities for traditional students but also attracts those looking to further their careers or start new ones—like Amber O’Connor, the Director of Operations at the Greater Vidalia ® Chamber, who decided to return to college after marrying her husband, starting a family, and beginning her career at the chamber.

Amber’s journey returning to college wasn’t a typical one. After completing her high school education at Wheeler County High School, she attended college for a short time pursuing a degree in education. Amber quickly found that path was not for her. She decided to take a break from college. Following this decision, Amber and her husband, Chase, got married and she began working at the Greater Vidalia ® Chamber. Amber always thought about going back to college to complete a degree to help her excel in her position at the chamber. She also had another motivation – her three-year-old daughter.

“Of course, there are a lot of jobs out there that don’t require a college degree, but I want to be able to tell my little girl one day that you can do it if you put your mind to it. I also know that with this degree I have the opportunity to make more money so I can help provide for her the things she needs and wants,” said Amber.

Amber has family members with small businesses and her husband has talked about starting one as well. Having a business degree would allow her to help her family and husband if they ever need someone with a business background.

Amber enrolled at an institution but quickly discovered she could attend EGSC for half the price and still have the flexibility of online classes. Having a full-time job, a young child, and a spouse who travels often for work, Amber knew she needed a program that would work with her schedule and be flexible when she needed it to be. With the help and encouragement of Natasha Goss, an EGSC business professor, Amber transferred to EGSC to pursue her associates degree.

“Going back to college can be very overwhelming at first,” stated Amber. “Every professor I have interacted with at East Georgia has been encouraging. They post encouraging words in the student portal and push you to do your best. They may not know what we are going through, but they stay positive and give positive feedback which can make a huge difference.”

Amber graduated in December with her Associate of Business Administration degree and has decided to continue her education in the Bachelor of Business Administration program at EGSC.

“I was very excited to hear that East Georgia was starting the bachelor’s program. Having continued flexibility and the affordability helped me make the decision to continue. I thought about taking another break, but I knew it would be very difficult to go back to college after taking time off,” said Amber.

Amber said she was also motivated to continue by her little girl and the professors at EGSC.

“Professor Natasha Goss has helped me so much. She is one of my biggest supporters and it means a lot to have someone like that on the college side of this supporting me. She and others encouraged me to continue in the bachelor’s program because they know I have it in me.”

“Seeing students like Amber return to school is so rewarding for us as professors,” said Natasha Goss, EGSC business professor. “I know the impact a business degree can have upon their lives; therefore, I emphasize in the classroom how this degree will equip them with the skills necessary to solve complex problems, think strategically, and become leaders in a variety of industries. I inspire them by connecting classroom concepts to industry trends and the vast career opportunities that can be found with a business degree. Whether in management, entrepreneurship, or finance, this degree provides a strong foundation for long-term career success, empowering students to become leaders and change-makers in their chosen fields.”

The Bachelor of Business Administration is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences required to succeed in various business and management roles. Students can select from a range of business courses to meet their needs or interests. Concentrations are offered in financial technology, healthcare administration, office administration and technology, film and television post-production, and data science. The program also provides an opportunity to work with area employers to address their employees’ educational needs and create student internship opportunities.

“Internships provide valuable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Internships allow students to develop professional skills, build industry connections, and gain a deeper understanding of their field. Internships also enhance employability, as students demonstrate practical knowledge and a commitment to career growth, making them more competitive in the job market. I want my students to understand the impact their knowledge and skills can have in their community and throughout the state of Georgia, even before their diploma is in their hands,” said Goss.

EGSC’s experienced faculty are industry experts and seasoned professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom. They encourage students to engage in practical, hands-on learning experiences through internships, projects, and case studies. Students will also benefit from career services, including resume development, interview preparation, and internship placement assistance.

For students like Amber, the journey is just beginning. The Bachelor of Business Administration program at EGSC offers a solid foundation for future business leaders, with a curriculum designed to evolve with industry trends and provide practical, hands-on learning. For those thinking about returning to school, the message is clear: it’s never too late to take that first step.

For more information about the BBA program, visit the EGSC website at www.ega.edu/bba.