Drover Alum Since Day One: Sydney Dacus
Class of 2022 alumna Sydney Dacus has seamlessly transitioned from student to career readiness specialist, making significant contributions in higher education. With a bachelor's in Multidisciplinary Studies from the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma, Dacus splits her professional time between USAO and Redlands Community College, where she also earned her associate degree in 2020.
"I’ve known about USAO my entire life," Dacus shared. "Growing up only 30 minutes away, it was one of the nearest colleges to me. My dad, mom and two older sisters all graduated from USAO, and my little brother is currently enrolled here. I chose USAO because I really liked what it had to offer—it’s a beautiful campus, and I had a pretty cool legacy connection coming in."
Dacus's role as Career Readiness Specialist is a shared position between USAO and Redlands Community College, embodying a full-circle moment for her. In the role, she focuses on bridging the gap between student education and career opportunities, providing personalized guidance and preparation for students entering the workforce. Her passion for student success is evident as she actively engages with students, helping them find exciting career opportunities.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Dacus emphasized the versatility of her degree in Multidisciplinary Studies. "I liked the variety of what that degree path offered me and how versatile it made my education. It allowed me to have a little bit of everything," she said.
Currently, Dacus is pursuing a master’s degree in strategic communications from the University of Central Oklahoma. Her education at USAO has significantly influenced her approach to her career. "USAO opened my eyes to different experiences, different cultures, different stories—you name it. I left USAO with way more knowledgeable about not just myself, but others and the world."
Dacus credits her time at USAO for her ability to communicate effectively and understand the needs of others. “USAO greatly prepared me for communicating with others and being able to understand their needs and try to meet them."
In her professional journey, Dacus finds the most meaning in her interactions with students. "In my career, I’ve been fortunate to have some of those breakthrough moments with students. Seeing a student walk out holding their head a little higher is pretty meaningful."
Dacus advises current and future students to embrace uncertainty and build connections. "It’s okay to be uncertain about your future and what your next steps are. College is a chance to learn and grow. Get to know your surroundings and make connections. People want you to succeed! Knowing people are rooting for you is so necessary and encouraging."
As Dacus continues to work towards her goals, her vision for the future remains clear. "Life is less about knowing your 'perfect' next step and more about being brave enough to take it, even if you don’t know what it will look like."
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world.