Sydney Jones Gets a Diploma for Her Birthday

2017 May 19

For any college student, graduation day is among the biggest days of one's life. But for Sydney Jones, her college graduation took place on her 22nd birthday, April 28, making it all the more special.

A native of Alabaster, Jones crossed the stage to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a minor in English.

"I chose JSU initially because of the fact that they have one of the only accredited communication departments," she explained. "I definitely did broadcasting all throughout high school, so I wanted to come to a school that would allow me to do that here. Also, I was looking to get involved in the Greek life, and I received a scholarship as well. So I just knew all those things were going to be available for me on campus verses a bigger university."

Jones explains that she has greatly enjoyed the "opportunities to get involved" at JSU, which is perhaps an understatement considering she has jumped into various student organizations since she came on campus in 2013. She is a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, where she has served as historian, vice president of programs and vice president of membership. Additionally, Jones has been involved with Freshman Forum, the Public Relations Student Society of America, Campus Outreach, the Student Activities Council, and the programs within the Department of Communications.

Jones just completed an internship with the JSU Office of Public Relations and is currently the marketing manager at Pump It Up in Birmingham. In the future, she would love to work in corporate public relations.

In her spare time, which is a rarity in her life, Jones enjoys traveling, spending time with friends, and Netflix. "I just don't like to sit still," she said. "My hobby is always having something to do. I like to be very busy."

Regarding her graduation birthday gift of a diploma, Jones stated, "I think its so exciting! When I found out that graduation was going to be on my birthday, it just made it even more of a goal."

Jones is the daughter of Brandy and David Barr and Sean and Gina Jones. Following graduation, she celebrated her big day with more than 40 family members who traveled to Jacksonville to celebrate her birthday and milestone.