Profiles of Tenacity: Mary Rushton Massey

Mary Rushton Massey is a fourth year public relations major with a business minor and certificate in personal and organizational leadership. As an active member of the UGA campus community, she has held roles as an intern for the PGA of America and a fellow in the Institute for Leadership Advancement. Her passion for leadership development and strategic communication has driven her success throughout her college career.

Read her Q/A below.

Why did you choose your major?

Coming into college, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do. I started as a marketing major, hoping to find clarity through my Terry coursework, but I quickly realized those classes weren’t the right fit for me. When I shared this with my advisor, he asked about my interests and strengths. I told him I’ve always loved to create and he encouraged me to explore Grady. As soon as I took my first classes, I knew I had found the right place. Grady allowed me to blend creativity with strategy, and I instantly fell in love with it.

What does tenacity mean to you?

To me, tenacity is grit—it’s having the drive and fire in your belly to push forward, even when things get tough. It’s about perseverance, determination and the willingness to do the hard work, no matter the obstacles. Tenacity means showing up, staying committed and finding a way to make things happen.

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

My biggest piece of advice for Grady students is to lean on your professors. They genuinely want to see you succeed—not just in the classroom, but in your career and beyond. Take the time to build relationships with them, ask questions and seek their guidance. They care about their students and can be incredible mentors as you learn and grow.

What motivates you?

My faith has always been my biggest motivator. It shapes who I am and is at the core of everything I do. It gives me purpose, guides my decisions and keeps me grounded through both challenges and successes.

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

My time as a fellow in the Institute for Leadership Advancement program has been incredibly transformative, shaping me as a leader, professional and friend. Through coursework and real-life project management, I gained valuable insights into my strengths and how to lean into them as a leader. Beyond that, the mentorship and guidance from the program’s professors have been invaluable. Their wisdom and support have helped me grow in ways I never expected, and I’m incredibly grateful for the lessons they’ve shared.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

My biggest accomplishment this past year was taking an internship in Dallas with the PGA of America. Having lived in Georgia my whole life, moving halfway across the country while only knowing one other person was a huge leap outside my comfort zone. But it turned out to be an incredible experience. I loved my internship, met amazing people and built lasting friendships. More than anything, I grew in my confidence and learned that sometimes the scariest decisions lead to the most meaningful growth.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite place on campus has to be Jittery Joe’s. It is my go-to study spot and the perfect place to catch up with a friend over coffee. I usually go to the Five Points location, but the MLC is a close second.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

If I could give my freshman self advice, I would say to stop comparing yourself to everyone around you. No one has it all figured out, and it is okay to feel the hard feelings. College is a huge transition, so give yourself grace and take it one step at a time. The people you will meet and the memories you will make will change your life forever, so soak in every moment.

Editor: Madden Callahan, emc50486@uga.edu