#GradyGrit: Meet Tyler Head
Editor’s Note: #GradyGrit is a new series of profiles of Grady College students who show determination, leadership and outreach to the community. Search “#GradyGrit” on the Grady College website for additional profiles.
Hometown: Covington, Georgia
Year: Senior
Degree: Journalism major and Sports Media Certificate
Involvement and activities: Grady Sports Media, UGA Wesley Foundation, WUOG member
How has Grady influenced your time at UGA?
Grady is fantastic. I came in as a transfer student almost two years ago, and the size and prestige of UGA was very intimidating. My first semester I struggled to meet people and kind of felt out of place. I was accepted into Grady and began there the following semester, and it made a world of difference. The professors and other students in Grady are all amazing and I’ve felt so comfortable ever since. I know “Grady Family” may sound like a cliche, but it’s a very real thing, and I love it.
I know “Grady Family” may sound like a cliche, but it’s a very real thing, and I love it.
What is your most memorable Grady experience?
Being a part of the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Radio Talent Institute that Grady hosted over the summer. I have a passion for radio broadcasting and learning the ins and outs of the industry, making connections with industry professionals and forming friendships and relationships with the other students that attended are truly unforgettable.
What has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?
The people for sure. I’ve met and gotten to know so many people from so many walks of life and professions, and I really value that. I feel like the more diverse groups of people you interact with can really help you adapt to the world after graduating.
What is your best advice for a student taking their first class at Grady College?
It’s going to seem very overwhelming at first, and you might even think you aren’t cut out for this major, but those fears will subside. As I mentioned before, Grady feels like home and once you become comfortable you’re going to love it. You’ll meet people and do things that will have a lasting impact on your life for years to come.
What motivates you?
Achieving goals. I always like having something to shoot for, both long and short term. That way I can always push myself to accomplish whatever’s next. I feel that knowing you’re heading in the right direction and building toward something makes life easier.
Last show/favorite show you binge-watched?
“The Office.” It is such a perfect show I just can’t get enough of it. I’ve already watched it three times and now I’m on my fourth because my girlfriend had never seen it and I introduced it to her.
Favorite quote?
“Having dreams is what makes life tolerable.” It’s from the movie “Rudy,” which I’ve loved since I was a kid. This really ties in what motivates me. We all know life can be challenging at times, but I’ve found that always having something to shoot for can get you through low points.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
That’s a tough one. I’d say probably that I’m very creative. I may not seem that way at times because I can tend to be a quieter person, but I’m all the time thinking of doing creative things. I also like to consider myself a good problem solver and that goes hand in hand with the creativity thing. I always find a way to get things done.
Favorite Athens restaurant?
I’m a very simple person, and I love barbeque, so I’d definitely go with Butt Hutt BBQ. It’s your classic hole-in-the-wall joint and for any barbecue lover that means the food is amazing, and the sweet tea is absolute perfection.
Create your own question to answer: Has Grady provided any challenges for you?
Like with any college courses there’s always the challenge of performing at a high level academically. With Grady there’s also the pressure of representing the college well professionally, too. Grady has a footprint literally everywhere in the media/journalism world, and that can feel a bit daunting to try and live up, to but that’s what makes Grady so great and well respected. I hope I too can one day make an impact in my professional career that represents Grady as the amazing place that it is.
Date: November 27, 2018Editor: Ashley Soriano, ashleysoriano@uga.edu