As an involved member of his local community and someone who at the age of 24 had already achieved the honor of being the youngest person ever elected to the City Council in his hometown, University of West Georgia alumnus Jonathan James had already accomplished quite a lot.

But there was an item of unfinished business on his list—a college degree.

“I knew I needed to get my degree, but I also needed it to be close to home so I could continue to serve in my capacity as a council member,” James explained. “I had a choice between three universities that were within driving distance. I applied to the University of West Georgia because I felt it was the perfect location, and I do not regret that one bit.”

James, a non-traditional student, had taken some time off between his sophomore and junior years of college to decide which degree to pursue. His break ended up lasting two years. During that time, he became involved in the Tallapoosa City Planning and Zoning Commission and was elected to a seat on the Tallapoosa City Council in 2011. But he never lost sight of his educational goals.

“I was looking for the program that would be best for me,” James said. “And with my involvement in the community and local government, I became interested in marketing and business. So I decided to go back. And it was so easy . . . easier than I thought it would be.”

His choice of degree turned out to be a perfect fit for James.

“Richards College of Business is run like a business; of course, you wouldn’t expect anything less,” James laughed. “But it was a great fit for me, and I had a lot of opportunities there.”

While an undergraduate, James served in the Student Government Association, and by his senior year was president. He also worked as a student assistant in the Dean’s Office.

He recalls building close relationships with both staff and faculty, particularly noting the personal attention provided by his professors.

“Their willingness to go the extra mile was just phenomenal,” James said. “They don’t mind taking that extra time with you. Also, I’m ADHD and dyslexic, so I had some accommodations. But professors didn’t mind letting me take a test at 7 a.m. in their office so I would have plenty of time to think it through.” 

“I could also go talk to them any time I had a real-world question about open meetings, open records law, mediation, litigation,” James continued. “They were willing to explain everything so I would have a clear understanding. I think it’s a unique West Georgia trait—that one-on-one attention.”

James says his real-world and classroom experience worked in tandem, helping him get the most out of his education.

“As a student, almost all the topics we covered in class, like business law, economics, even some accounting, were all relevant to my position as a city council member,” James said. “So it helped me be a better public servant. It also worked the other way, because I was able to bring some of that real-world experience with me to class and share it with my classmates.” 

James admitted that it was a bit scary at times, coming into class as a non-traditional student.

“I walked into a survey of calculus class without touching math for five years,” James said. “I was terrified, but I got a B in the class because I utilized the tutoring center.”

According to James, using the resources available at UWG helped him be successful as a student.

“You can’t be afraid or ashamed to go ask for help,” James said. “We’re all human, so we all have flaws. Even the people tutoring you may get stuck and have to ask for help. And that’s OK.”

If there is one piece of advice James said he could impart to other students, it would be to make sure they get to know their advisor and to do an internship before graduating.

“But to start with, and most importantly, if you’re thinking about going back and finishing your degree and you’re able to, take advantage of that ability. Just do it,” James said.

Now that James has his MBA in hand, he’s looking to start a career in economic development while continuing to serve on the city council.