CANTON — Alex Goran wanted what he called “the full college experience” from Kennesaw State University.

“I live right down the street,” the 22-year-old said, noting that his home in Woodstock was close enough for him to drive to school.

“I could have commuted, but I wanted to live on campus,” he said.

While in the residence hall freshman year, the Sequoyah High School graduate said he found a new place to call home.

“I felt comfortable there and became close friends with my resident assistant,” he said, adding that his hallmates became like a family to him and that the on-campus lifestyle helped him alleviate some of his school-related stress.

After his first year, Goran decided he wanted to continue resident life and become a resident assistant. Three years later, Goran was the residence director for Building 4000 in the University Village Suites.

Today, Goran graduates with his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in marketing.

He credits his participation in the Department of Resident Life for getting him more involved with the university.

“I want to be a change agent in everything I come across,” he said. “KSU provided that structure.”

Goran, along with the university, saw a lot of change in the past few years.

“We went from having 320 beds to close to 3,000 in a span of four years,” Goran said.

The first housing facility was opened only eight years ago at KSU, which was largely considered a commuter college before that time.

“Through residence life, I’ve been allowed to be part of creating on-campus tradition,” Goran said.

Goran plans to continue in a student affairs role wherever he decides to pursue his graduate degree in business communication or marketing. By working for the university, he hopes to receive tuition reimbursement as a graduate assistant. He plans to apply to Georgia Institute of Technology, Clemson University and University of Arkansas.

“When you are a part of something, you have more buy into it,” Goran said of his passion for on-campus life. “When you have a buy in, you just want to continue to succeed.”

Goran credits his mother, Kimberly Goran, for helping him achieve his degree.

“She’s been a big support for me by listening to me and helping me in various decisions,” he said, adding that he valued her advice and support throughout his college years.