Profiles of Tenacity: Lucy Grey Shields

Lucy Grey Shields is a fourth-year journalism student, with minors in  law, jurisprudence, and the state and criminal justice studies and a certificate in news literacy, from Atlanta, Georgia. Grey is widely involved on campus; in Grady College, she serves as a special events intern and ambassador, among her other involvements. Grey is set to graduate in May 2025 and hopes to continue a career in journalism.

Read her Q/A below.

Why did you choose your major?

Throughout my life, I have always been drawn to hearing and sharing people’s stories. In high school, I served as both a writer and editor for my school newspaper, where I discovered the perfect blend of my passion for storytelling and my curiosity about others’ experiences. It was there that I truly found my voice—one that thrives in amplifying the voices of others.

One of the first Grady courses I took was Dr. Peters’s Law of Mass Communication course. In that class I realized that I could combine my love for political science and law with my commitment to journalism. In Dr. Andrea Hudson’s Introduction to Photojournalism class, I learned that stories could be just as powerful without a single word. This semester, in my Reporting IV course as a writer for The Oglethorpe Echo, Dr. Amanda Bright and Mr. Andy Johnston have challenged me to bring together everything I’ve learned over the past four years to tell the stories of Oglethorpe County’s citizens.

I chose to major in journalism because of my passion for storytelling. But I stayed with it because of the faculty and staff at Grady College, who have challenged and inspired me every step of the way.

What does tenacity mean to you?

To me, tenacity means putting in the extra work even when those around you aren’t willing to. It means pushing yourself the extra mile! 

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

I’d tell Grady students not to be afraid to explore opportunities outside their major. This semester, I’ve been working in event planning at Grady College, and it’s been such a rewarding experience. It’s allowed me to apply my journalism skills in a new context while also gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience.

What motivates you?

I’m motivated by my friends and family. I’m incredibly lucky to be surrounded by people who challenge me, inspire me and encourage me to keep growing. I’m constantly fueled by the desire to make them proud.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

Karen Andrews has had the greatest impact on my life during my time at UGA. As her special events intern, she took me under her wing and continually challenged me to grow—not just professionally, but personally as well. I feel incredibly lucky to have been mentored by such an inspiring woman, and I know I’ll carry her lessons with me throughout my career and beyond.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

My biggest accomplishment this past year was being selected to serve as a Head Gamma Chi during UGA sorority recruitment. As one of only six women chosen for the role, I felt incredibly proud to lead and support a group of over 130 women through the experience of being recruitment counselors. It was an honor to help guide them and be part of something so impactful.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Schnitzer Family Media Lawn. It’s such a vibrant gathering place for the Grady community—I love spending time there catching up with friends, working on assignments in the sunshine, or joining in on Grady events. It always feels like the heart of our college.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

I’d tell my freshman self to set high expectations—but not to be afraid of falling short. That first year, I was juggling making new friends, adjusting to a new city and figuring out college life, all while trying to make everything feel picture-perfect. I’d love to reassure freshman-year Lucy Grey that it all works out!

Editor: Madden Callahan, emc50486@uga.edu