Hometown: Sycamore, Illinois
What school did you transfer from: Kennedy-King Community College
Anticipated graduation date: December 2021
What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major or have you taken another path? I wanted to be a teacher. I quickly learned I didn’t have that type of patience, so I pursued my Bachelors in Management. In my personal way, I will be teaching by developing future leaders. A part of my competitiveness played its part, too, in choosing management.
What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study? I am majoring in business management with an emphasis in leadership and management. I’m also minoring in business innovation and entrepreneurship. I always loved the persona that only “business professionals” seem to possess. It’s a different kind of confidence worn. Though, my main reason was being a consumer and being annoyed by poor customer service. (I had my fair share of experiences!) It made me want to move up in my position and become a manager. I felt I had an obligation to become a manager and develop other great managers in hopes of making a company grow in the process. If my customers are happy, my business is, too. Now, my love for the world of business makes us inseparable.
What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU? How much my advisors care, and the well-skilled professionals who teach here. I remember at previous schools not wanting to talk to my advisors because that wasn’t the culture they wanted. Their tasks were to make sure I knew the classes I needed, and that I registered. Here at NIU, I’m always communicating with my advisors. They want to see me succeed, and they show it with action. As far as the professors, we, at NIU, are equipped with so many doctorates and individuals with years of successful experience under their belt. Not only is it beneficial for my knowledge, it has also been inspirational.
How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships? Connecting with my peers virtually was new and fun. Surprisingly, I didn’t experience cameras off with a lot of people, so we were able to get a little face-to-face interaction. Being comfortable in your own space, I feel, allowed us to be a little relaxed amongst each other. Which in return allowed me to gain some friendships. Now, that we have returned, it’s been that excitement to see them in person.
Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie? I was a member of a dance group called, “Envy”. That allowed my escape from school. I love to dance so having that outlet kept me level headed. I am now currently a member of Delta Sigma Pi Professional Business Fraternity. It has been beneficial for developing myself as a professional and presents great networking opportunities, while also allows me to lean on my brothers for advice, to have fun, and just encourage each other.
Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach? My favorite professors are: Professor Mark Groza, who is the Enterprise Holdings Associate Professor of Sales in the Department of Marketing; Assistant Professor of Management Bethany Cockburn who teaches negotiation, and Associate Professor of Management Furkan Gur who teaches entrepreneurship.
Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it? I love the Student Center. It’s definitely the heart of campus. Everyone is there, you get to eat, and even study. You get to see all the different organizations and be aware of the activities going on on campus by the posters.
What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges? Be sure that this is what you want! Because you’re going to walk away with what you put in. Also, remember to breathe: Meaning you have to find a way to relax outside of school. Ultimately, stay focused, driven, and have fun!
Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently? I had to learn to live on my own. Overall, just how to become independent.
What do you do to relax or recharge? I relish watching and going to the movies. Also, I love going out with family and friends for a good time.
~ posted by M. De Jean, Director of Marketing, NIU College of Business
