James Mims ’24
Why did you choose Unity?
I chose Unity due to the class length, tuition costs, program options, and the ability to learn completely online. This has been a relatively affordable degree and a major that blends animal science, business, and strategic planning together in an interesting way.
Tell us about your journey in higher ed.
I have attended college 3 times. First at a technical school where I completed the majority of the occupational courses but did not complete all of the core classes to be able to receive the full diploma. Then I attended a 4-year university locally as a non-traditional student, working full-time and with a young child. This was far too difficult to complete. I knew that completing my bachelors degree would be an enormous challenge without an asynchronous, online option.
What made your experience at Unity special?
The courses have been very interesting. For me, having 5 weeks per course helps me stay focused and engaged especially when the course is something that I am not 100% excited about or for courses that are difficult. I have had some really great professors. Professor Zach Falcon specifically spent at least an hour over zoom with me discussing Grad school options, explaining the applications of individual degrees, and giving me advice on how to break into the Non-profit sector. I have since then moved into a Non-profit role by following his advice. I feel very grateful for his help and advisement.
Where has your career taken you?
I am currently the Director of Donor Relations for the One Sumter Economic Development Foundation in Americus, Georgia.
How has your Unity education benefited your career?
I am walking away with an understanding of strategic planning frameworks among so many other things that are beneficial. Through the coursework at Unity, I have really learned how to organize, begin, and complete a research process and then execute.
What advice would you give to Unity students?
Take the time that is necessary to actually develop a plan. If you have a project to complete, whether it’s writing your resume or building a marketing plan or trying to find a solution to a social issue, pause and take the time required to define your current state. Once you know where you are then define the ideal end-state and work backwards from there. Often times people don’t invest the time needed to think critically about what they are doing, and where they are going, as part of their prep work and this will diminish your results more than you may realize.
