

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hayley R. Schultz.
Hi Hayley R., we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started college during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which made an already big transition even more isolating and confusing. I felt lost, out of touch with myself, and disconnected from my school community. At the time, I was studying psychology, mostly because I had always found myself helping others and listening to their problems. Coming from a challenging family background, I think I naturally became someone who wanted to understand people and support them however I could.
But deep down, I had always imagined another version of myself—writing, creating, maybe even directing. I used to say, “In another life, I’d be a writer or filmmaker,” like it was something I had to leave behind. That changed when I met a professor (Nina Morgan) who eventually became a sort of mentor to me. She looked me in the eye one day and asked, “Why not in this life?” That simple question shifted everything.
With her encouragement, I changed my major to journalism with a concentration in professional writing. From that point on, things began to fall into place. I found purpose in storytelling and power in giving voice to experiences that often go unheard. On May 9th, I officially graduated from Kennesaw State University with that very degree. Now, I’m the Managing Editor of VUE Atlanta Magazine, where I get to do exactly what I love—amplify stories, celebrate culture, and help shape meaningful conversations in our community. It’s been a journey. I’m only 21, still growing, still learning, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for everything that’s ahead.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road—more like a rollercoaster with no warning signs. One of the biggest turning points happened right before I graduated from high school in 2020. I was in a serious car accident that completely changed my life. I missed my entire senior year, was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and experienced memory loss, cognitive struggles, and long-term PTSD. On top of that, I was involved in a legal case related to the accident that lasted four years (ended summer of 2024). It was physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting.
And of course, all of this happened during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting college while still in recovery felt overwhelming. I was navigating a new world, dealing with grief for the life I used to know, and trying to find a new sense of purpose when everything felt broken.
There were moments I truly didn’t know if I’d make it through school or find something that felt meaningful again. But every setback shaped me. The pain, the still-ongoing recovery—it all taught me to slow down, reflect, and recognize my own strength. That’s why storytelling became so important to me. Writing gave me a way to process my experience and connect with others, and it’s ultimately what led me to where I am today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m currently the Managing Editor of VUE Atlanta Magazine, where I assist in editorial direction, write features, and collaborate on creative projects that spotlight culture, community, and untold stories. My work involves everything from shaping the tone of the publication to managing writers and curating content that reflects the heartbeat of Atlanta.
What I specialize in—and what I’m most passionate about—is storytelling that feels intentional and real. That is what truly sets VUE Atlanta apart from any other magazine here in GA. It’s real and raw. I care deeply about voices that are often overlooked, and I aim to create space for those narratives to thrive. Whether I’m writing, editing, or brainstorming big-picture ideas, I always try to ask: “Who needs to be heard?”
I’m proud of the way I’ve turned pain into purpose and how I’ve committed myself to building something meaningful, not just for myself but for others, too.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Atlanta is the variety—there’s truly something here for everyone. Whether you’re into art, music, fashion, food, activism, or entrepreneurship, this city has a space for you to grow and find your people. It’s not cliquey or exclusive. Once you find the right crowd, they’ll embrace you like family, even if you just met. That sense of community and creative energy is something really special.
What I like least? Definitely the traffic. Anyone who’s lived here knows the struggle! You can leave 20 minutes early and still end up late.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://atlantavue.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayley.rrose/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-schultz-4a289b2b6/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/vueatlanta/
Image Credits
Big ideas, small spaces: credit: Modernacy, LLC
Group photo (launch party) credit: SocialOne