The chance to work on the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Blue Ridge Campus was an easy decision for Lori Bramlett. The lifelong Ellijay, Georgia, resident and 1995 UNG alumna was excited to help others in her community see how higher education opens doors for students.
The assistant director of enrollment services loves the atmosphere she shares with her colleagues and students.
"We all care about each other. We want to see each other succeed, both as a unit and individually. I think you can feel that close bond as soon as you step on campus," Bramlett said. "To me, it is all about meaningful relationships. By investing in others and surrounding yourself with a good team, you can conquer the world."
A major part of those relationships is treating people the right way, she said.
She is grateful that UNG offers new possibilities for students in the region. Previously, some of these students may have gone straight into the workforce instead of leaving home to attend a four-year university. Now, they can begin their college career in Blue Ridge before finishing on another UNG campus.
"It's a great opportunity for them to not have to incur that expense the first two years of college," Bramlett said. "They can stay in the community where they're comfortable."
She offers students assistance with admissions, enrollment and advising questions. She seeks to be well-versed and isn't afraid to pick up the phone or send an email.
"If I don't know the answer, I'm smart enough to know who to go to for an answer," Bramlett said.
She thrives on encouraging and supporting students through an open-door policy while challenging them to grow.
"I love to help students however I can, but helping them become self-motivated is my ultimate goal," she said. "When you see it click, it is a great feeling."
Some of her proudest moments include seeing former Blue Ridge Campus students go on to receive academic scholarships such as the Fulbright, as well as seeing them flourish in leadership roles on the Dahlonega Campus and ultimately graduate from UNG and enter their career fields.
"It's nice to see them succeed and have smiles on their faces," Bramlett said. "And knowing that UNG's Blue Ridge Campus was part of a student's journey makes all the work worth it."