AMERICUS, Ga. (WALB) - As South Georgia faces shortages in the classrooms and hospitals, a new wave of hope is moving in at Georgia Southwestern State University.

On Aug. 9, Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) moved nearly 400 freshmen into the dorms. This is the second largest class in the university’s history, making up their largest student body ever with just over 3,900 students.

“I think this place has a history; a 119-year history of making a difference in students’ lives, transforming lives. I think the size, the personalized attention, the people here, this incredible campus. There are just so many things that draw students,” said University President Michelle Johnston.

According to Johnston, the school has had a $500,000 economic impact on the region within the last five years.

“It’s not just about that economic impact, the dollars. It’s about the service that our students and our campus does within the community. We are leaders in service and in our athletics programs and with our students,” said Johnston.

The state is facing a shortage of healthcare professionals and educators, but the university hopes to bridge that gap. President Johnston said GSW leads the state in the percentage of students that stay and work in Georgia after graduation.

“84% of our graduates are stating in Georgia and contributing to our workforce and our economy. We are really proud of that,” she said.

One incoming freshman plans to do just that. Stephen McDonald said he chose GSW for their education program. After graduation, McDonald said he plans to stay in Georgia and become a high school American History teacher.

“I want to be seen by my future students, future faculty and future bosses as a teacher that’s there almost every day; as a teacher that’s really dedicated to teaching,” McDonald said.

Classes start up for the Hurricanes on Aug. 13, and a school spokesperson said the university is on track to have 4,000 total students next year.

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