Grads prepare to step into workforce

Christopher Shea Hale is a Gainesville, Georgia, resident earning a degree in film and digital media with a production concentration. Hale transferred to UNG from LaGrange College after an injury cut short his college football career.

He served as vice president and senator in Student Government Association (SGA) at UNG's Gainesville Campus and met his fiancée, Kayleigh Riker, while serving as a student leader. He also helped co-found Accessibility Advocacy Group, alongside Daniel Greene and Susannah Hooton.

Hale credits the entire SGA and Student Involvement, President Mike Shannon, Hall County Clerk of Superior and State Court Mark Pettitt, state Sen. Drew Echols, state Rep. Will Wade, Tanya Hargrove of Career Services, and film faculty members Michael Lucker, James MacKenzie, Dr. Jeff Marker, and Robyn Hicks, and retired communication faculty member Steven Shields for elevating his career to the fullest.

Through the Georgia Legislative Internship Program, Hale spent the spring 2025 semester time working with the House Media Services team. The opportunity paved the way for his first post-college job - Hale will serve as a legislative aide for Wade in spring 2026.

"That was one of the best experiences I've ever had, and it helped me have the career I have now," Hale said.

Hale runs his own business, Hale 18 Cinema LLC, and is working for two statewide campaigns in 2026. After starting college at age 18 and dealing with the frustration of people doubting his entrepreneurial abilities because of his youth, Hale has a clear message for others seeking to follow a similar path.

"If you're good enough, you're old enough," Hale said. "Don't let age be a determining factor for you."