Finding Greatness: Rekita Barnes

Author: News Bureau
Posted: Thursday, September 22, 2022 12:00 AM
Categories: Pressroom | School of Health and Natural Sciences | Students | Finding Greatness

Macon, GA

As she nears completion of her B.S. in Respiratory Therapy, non-traditional student Rekita Barnes hopes to begin her career at Emory Healthcare and pursue a master’s degree.

Full Name: Rekita Barnes.

Age: 33.

Hometown & Residence: Gray.

High School: Jones County High School, Class of 2007.

Family: Daughter, Londyn Rae Wrice.

Employment: Full-time student.

Degree Objective: Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy.

Class Rank: Senior. 

Primary Campus: Macon.

Activities: American Association for Respiratory Care, MGREAT.

Career Goals: “I plan to work as a registered respiratory therapist at Emory Healthcare.”

She chose Middle Georgia State University because … “Many of my family members are alumni of MGA, and close friends recommended the Respiratory Therapy program and spoke highly of the faculty.”

The greatest thing she discovered about Middle Georgia State was … “The Respiratory Therapy department faculty. They care about my success, and they have proven it through providing tutoring sessions and by being available after normal business hours for any school-related assistance.”

Her greatest academic experience as a Middle Georgia State student has been … “My clinical experiences. There is where I apply what I learn in lectures and labs to patient populations of all ages.”

To her, greatness means … “In the words of one of my professors, ‘Always try to be more than expected when possible. It is not for me, but for those that come behind me.’ To me, greatness means helping to pave the way for my daughter and the next generation. It means working hard, staying consistent, and showing me that absolutely anything is possible with God and hard work.”

In five years … “I plan to have obtained a Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy. I would also like to work clinically with students to help develop their knowledge and skills. Personally, I plan to be married with more children!”