CourtesyPayton Morgan, a native Wichitan, is a Wichita East High School alumnus. He chose to attend Wichita State because of the relationships he already had with Wichita State students and staff.
Payton is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what the future has in store for the grad.
What is your degree in?
My degree will be in Computer Science.
Where are you from?
I am from Wichita, Kansas.
What led you to Wichita State?
The deciding factor for me to attend Wichita State was a scholarship I won and the relationships I already had on campus.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
It feels a little bittersweet. I鈥檓 feeling a little sad, but I鈥檓 excited and really looking forward to graduation.
What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at Wichita State?
The most helpful learning experience I鈥檝e had while a student is learning how to ask other students and professors for help. There is no reason to struggle by myself when there are a lot of people who want to help.
What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I had as a student was being able to balance my schoolwork and academics, while still maintaining my active involvement and leadership within clubs and organizations.
What has been your most helpful learning experience at Wichita State?
The most helpful learning experience at Wichita State has been learning more about how to talk to people in a professional setting.
What organizations were you involved in during your time at Wichita State?
I was involved in Freshman Student Council, Student Government Association, Cut H8, Alpha Phi Alpha, SEEDS (Science Engineering Educational Development for Students), Shocker Engineering Academy Mentor and NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers).
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I am planning on interning at Spirit Aerosystems in its IT department.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your time at Wichita State or your post-graduation plans?
There hasn鈥檛 been much of an effect due to COVID-19. I am still graduating on time, and the pandemic didn鈥檛 impact my post-graduation plans. I feel very blessed and thankful that my life plans weren鈥檛 negatively impacted by the pandemic.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
To other students, I鈥檇 say to prioritize things according to their importance. Additionally, work hard and do well in school, but be sure to stay involved and eager to meet new people. College will allow you to create long-lasting relationships if you put in the work to discover those relationships.
