Dominica student is starting a computer science job in New Jersey after great success at Grambling State University

By KOURTNEY BURNEY
GSU Media Bureau

After three years at Grambling State University, Jullone Burnette is at  the top of his class with an impressive 3.82 grade point average, a pinnacle achieved after thousands of hours of hard work and dedication.

To his teachers, mentors, friends and daughter, Burnette is a humble, hard worker who worked hard to become the first in his family to become a college graduate when GSU holds its commencement at 10 a.m. today (Dec. 16) at Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center on the campus.

Awards and honors are nice, and Burnette is no stranger to recognition. He has had academic excellence in each of his four years.  He was on the president’s list in spring 2013, 2014 and 2016, on the president’s list in fall 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 and on the dean’s list in spring 2015. He was chosen to be featured in the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges 2015-2016.

“The urge to make my family proud is the reason I was able to uphold such academic excellence my years here at Grambling,” Burnette answered humbly, when asked how he was able to achieve such consistent success.

Burnette, 27, was born to parents Jullius and Geraldiene Burnette in Wesley, Dominica.  He worked in high school because he wanted to go to college to continue his education. A Grambling State, alumnus Keskim Shillingford, encouraged him to apply to Grambling State, and he did. Shillingford was Burnette’s neighbor, teacher, and friend back home in Dominica.

“The tuition was affordable, and the opportunity seemed rewarding so I decided to apply,” he said.

Burnette’s work, and some sleepless nights, will be recognized as he walks across the stage as this semester’s valedictorian, receiving a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He plans to pursue a career in software development, and he wants to include a master’s degree in computer science. He plans to move to New Jersey after graduation to start his career.

“This young man is an excellent example of what it means to have an academic focus at Grambling State University,” said Ellen Smiley, interim provost and vice president of academic affairs at GSU. “He took full advantage of what we offer, and chose to stay focused on the right things to achieve this tremendous honor. We’re proud of him.”

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