EP. 8: Setting the Bar: How this Columbus Tech Student Won Student of the Year

Welcome to a historic milestone for Talent Pipeline Georgia! To kick things off, host Cory Thompson sits down with May Saysombath, a Dental Hygiene student from Columbus Technical College and the newly crowned 2026 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner!May’s journey to winning a brand-new Kia Sportage is a masterclass in resilience and adaptability. After pivoting from her initial plans in Alabama to avoid career-limiting geographic restrictions, she found her true calling—and an lifelong support system—at Columbus Tech.In this conversation, May opens up about the intense reality of the state competition, including the high-stakes pressure of drawing the number-one interview slot. But far beyond the trophy and the new car keys, May shares the deeply moving story of balancing grueling clinical competencies and case studies while navigating the loss of her father and rushing to the hospital to care for her ill mother. Tune in to hear how an unexpected "Plan B" transformed into a statewide victory, why graduating debt-free is a total game-changer, and how a community of dedicated instructors can carry a student through life's hardest moments.In this episode, we discuss:The tactical decision to choose Columbus Tech over state-restricted university programs.Navigating the pressure cooker of going first in the state finals.“Everyone is going through something”: Balancing critical family emergencies with rigorous clinical training.The logistics of driving a prize car home across state lines when you didn't plan on winning.May’s next chapter as the official 2026 workforce ambassador for the Technical College System of Georgia.Connect with Us:Subscribe to Talent Pipeline Georgia on your favorite podcast platform.Watch the full video version of Episode 8 on our official channel!