Joshua Jones made history before he even stepped foot onto LSU’s campus.
The LSU junior’s journey to the university first began when he became the first African American male to complete his associate’s degree at Bossier Parish Community College in under a year. From there, he decided to pursue his bachelor’s degree in marketing and landed on LSU after visiting the campus.
“I graduated a year early and decided to transfer to LSU so I could get out of my hometown and explore,” Jones explained. “The first thing that stuck out to me about LSU is how many opportunities there are to get involved on campus.”
Upon his arrival, Jones quickly became acclimated with Communication Across the Curriculum (CxC), an on-campus program that focuses on improving students’ skills in writing, speaking and visual and technological communication. He is also a part of the Distinguished Communicator Program and serves as a Geaux Communicate Ambassador; however, he didn’t stop there.
The LSU junior decided to take things to new heights by expressing interest in LSU Student Government. As a member of the 61st LSU Student Senate, Jones represents the student body in critical decision-making, and his first piece of legislation was signed on February 28. Jones’ desire to expand dining options for students set the precedent for this legislation.
“LSU has a meal swipe exchange program that allows students to exchange one meal swipe for a meal at the Student Union, excluding Panda Express and Chick-Fil-A, if they don’t want to eat what’s being served at the dining halls,” Jones said.
He thought that it would be a good idea to push for the new Tiger Traditions restaurant to be included in this program, so dining options for students can be further expanded. From there, Jones composed the legislation, presented it on the Senate floor, garnered the support of schoolmates and eventually got the bill signed.
“Student Government works for me, but it may not work for someone else,” Jones said. “Others may prefer engaging in community service or joining an intramural sports team at UREC. My suggestion is to attend events such as Bengal Bound, Involvement Fest and checking out the TigerLink. These are some of the best resources on ways to get involved on campus.”
Many students associate Jones with his school spirit and recognize him as a familiar fan at LSU Athletics events. He often showcases his enthusiasm for university sports programs via social media and his various TV appearances while attending games.
Jones’ journey as a transfer is one of many that typically go overlooked. He is a shining example of what can be achieved at LSU, when students put their best foot forward to let their voice be heard.
Jones’ next venture will be serving as a Bengal Bound Orientation leader later this semester, and he’s elated to be assisting incoming students in their transition to university life. When asked what advice he has for students who will come to LSU with similar circumstances as him, he said that trial and error is key.
“There’s something for you at LSU,” Jones said. “You just have to find your own place. Try things out and see what works for you.”
To keep up with Joshua Jones’ story and his journey at LSU, you can follow him on Instagram: @joshuaaajoness.
