Bossier Millennial Pro: Shon Trent

Bossier is home to a growing population of young people doing amazing things. Meet one of the millennials who will soon be taking up a leadership role in the community. This month’s Bossier Millennial Pro is Shon Trent.

Director of enrollment for Virginia College in Bossier City, Shon is a former admissions specialist for Grambling State University with a masters of education in teaching and technology from Ashford University. Professionally, Shon believes in enriching the lives of students and motivating them to strive for academic excellence by believing in themselves. A native of Ringgold, Louisiana, Shon has three siblings — two older twin sisters and one younger brother. He also has a son and enjoys being active in his local church, United In Christ Pentecostal Church, and helping others achieve their spiritual and educational goals.

1. Why do you enjoy what you do?

I truly believe that education is the catalyst for a brighter future. I love to be involved in changing student’s lives.

2. How did your previous jobs prepare you for your position at VC?

I came to work at Virginia College because I have always had a passion to motivate others toward getting a education. I truly believe that education is the key to having a better life. On a daily basis, I am able to interact with so many students, and by doing so it allows me to share my personal experiences with them. This encourages everyone to never stop dreaming and always reach for higher highs in their life.

3. You clearly feel very strongly about education. What about your own education instilled this belief in you?

I have traveled abroad. First to Europe as a college student to study at a Danish Business College and more recently to Costa Rica on a mission trip. Both of these experiences has changed and shaped my life in so many ways.

4. Was there a teacher who impacted you?

Education was instilled in me by my mother at an early age. I remember my mother being very active in my education, always providing me with motivation and letting me know there are no limits on life. My 3rd grade teacher, Ms. Berkett, was the educator that saw potential in me when I didn’t see it in myself. I will always be grateful to her.

5. Do you hope that you are instilling that same belief and work ethic in your son?

I have already started reading to my son, allowing him in his early stages of learning to understand that education is valuable. I find myself encouraging him often in order to instill in him that daddy and mommy will always be there to support him.

6. As you know, quality of life is closely linked with education. So let’s switch it up — why do you work in Bossier?

I presently live in Minden, but Bossier continues to provide me with a great work environment at Virginia College. I have been very pleased with my job and how Bossier continues to support higher education.

7. You live in Minden but work in Bossier. How do you deal with the commute?

I actually enjoy the 30-minute daily commute to Bossier. It allows me to mentally get ready for the day and, driving back, reflect on the day’s events.

8. What is your favorite thing about Bossier?

Bossier is always on the forefront of positive change in the community. Bossier continues to be trendsetters in how a city grows and develops new opportunities for its citizens.

9. Where do you like to hang out and why?

I love to hang out at the park with my wife and son. I truly believe that family time is precious.

10. What is your favorite thing to do in Bossier?

My favorite thing to do in Bossier is take my son to Chuck E. Cheese. He would go everyday if we would let him!

11. What do you want to accomplish in the future?

My main goal is to start my own mentoring and tutoring service to help at risk kids.

12. If you could tell people one thing about life in Bossier, what would that be?

Life in Bossier is a feeling that you are a part of something bigger than yourself, and Bossier is in the infancy stage of greatness.

Looking to read about more young trailblazers, check out last month’s Bossier Millennial Pro Lindsey Phillips.