Finding Greatness: Jonathan Patterson

Author: Sheron Smith
Posted: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 12:00 AM
Categories: School of Computing | Pressroom | Finding Greatness | Students

Macon, GA

Jonathan Patterson

After more than 20 years away from the classroom, Jonathan Patterson returned to college determined to pursue a new career. Now an information technology major at Middle Georgia State University, he's proving that it's never too late to chase a dream, overcome challenges, and discover his potential.

Name: Jonathan Patterson

Major: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, with concentrations in cybersecurity and cyber forensics

Career Goal: Cybersecurity or digital forensics in healthcare or criminal justice

What motivates you?

What motivates me most is the belief that it's never too late to pursue your passions or take your life in a new direction. After being away from the classroom for more than 20 years, I challenged myself to step outside my comfort zone and return to college to pursue a degree in information technology.

What keeps me motivated is seeing how much I've grown since returning to college. Every new skill I learn and every challenge I overcome reminds me why I started this journey. I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and the chance to build a career where I can put my knowledge to work and make a meaningful difference. Most importantly, I want to keep pushing myself, explore new possibilities, and see just how far I can go.

What's one word friends or family would use to describe you?

Determined. Once I set my mind to something, I give it everything I have. I've never been someone who gives up easily, even when things don't go as planned.

After spending more than 15 years in management, I've also learned that some of the most rewarding accomplishments come from helping others recognize their potential. I believe determination, kindness, and encouraging others are equally important parts of success.

What's something you're proud of during your time at MGA?

I'm most proud of how much I've grown academically and personally. Returning to college after an established career meant starting over, which was both challenging and rewarding.

Earning my CompTIA Security+ certification, working on hands-on projects, and learning from professors who genuinely care about their students have strengthened my confidence. More than any individual accomplishment, I'm proud that I took a chance on myself and discovered abilities I might never have explored otherwise.

What's been your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge has been balancing my education, personal life, and health. I've faced significant medical challenges, including undergoing a heart transplant and being placed back on the transplant list for another heart while continuing my education.

Those experiences have taught me that life doesn't always go according to plan, and sometimes you have to adjust your path. Returning to college and learning an entirely new field has brought additional challenges, but I've learned that setbacks don't have to mean defeat. I don't want my challenges to define my story. I want people to remember how I've responded to them.

What does "finding greatness" mean to you?

To me, finding greatness isn't about having the most impressive résumé or achieving extraordinary success. It's about recognizing your potential, having the courage to pursue it, and continuing to grow.

Returning to college later in life has taught me that greatness has no age limit or expiration date. I also believe greatness is reflected in how we treat others, encourage those around us, and make a positive difference. Ultimately, it's about becoming someone you're proud of while inspiring others to believe in themselves.

What's next for you after MGA?

After graduating, I hope to pursue a career in cybersecurity or digital forensics, particularly in healthcare, criminal justice, or a field that combines both. Having experienced healthcare from a patient's perspective, I appreciate the importance of protecting sensitive information and the role technology plays in patient care.

I also hope to continue my education and eventually earn a doctorate in information technology. For me, graduation isn't the finish line. It's the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and I'm looking forward to seeing where it takes me.