Meet Krystal L. Smith | Author & Mentor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Krystal L. Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Krystal L., can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
A book that I read that had a significant impact on me is All In by Mark Batterson. Actually, there are two books. All In and In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day (by him as well). What impacted me most is that although they are faith based, they both point to the willingness we play in our own complacency. These books challenged me to not use my faith as a crutch, but rather use it for the strength and boldness needed to attain better. No more “hedging my bets”. Either I’m in it or I’m not. No more mediocrity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been blessed to serve in the world of education since I was eighteen years old. It began with our local elementary school being in desperate need of someone to help translate for migrant students and their families. My mom “voluntold” me for the job. I graduated high school. Went to THE UNSINKABLE, INDESTRUCTIBLE Albany State University. Majored in English thinking I was heading to law school. However, my heart kept being pulled into education. So, here I am. Now, serving for the Student Affairs Office in Admissions for Southern Regional Technical College. I have been in this roll since January 2011. There is no greater joy than being a part of someone else’s success and being an active participant in him/her fulfilling the dreams. I get to counsel, mentor, etc. I love it!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When I’m in the city, I love to take in a show at the Fox Theatre, shop at Black Wallstreet, go on a food and wine tour, and of course we have to shop like there’s no tomorrow!!! The thrifting scene is absolutely amazing!!!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be who or where I am had it not been for my family and Dr. Delesa Patterson. When I wanted to give up on me, they covered me so that I could recover. There was a time that I just wanted to allow the waters to overtake me. Each of them became my lifeline. They taught me how to walk on what was trying to drown me. It’s amazing what happens to you when you are loved well. People, like me, who have been loved well, heal well.

Website: 21 Day Spiritual Journey Devotional https://a.co/d/4t69hkv

Instagram: Edmondsk229

Linkedin: Krystal L. Smith

Twitter: Hzfavrd1

Facebook: Krystal L. Smith

Youtube: Krystalsmith5802

Image Credits
Photographer: Renarda Jones (Photo with “Finisher” written on shirt