By Adriana Betancourt
For Taylor Leonard, finding her purpose wasn’t something that happened overnight, but it was something she built through involvement, mentorship and experience at NIU’s College of Business.
A spring 2024 NIU graduate with her B.S. degree in management, along with a minor and certificate in marketing, Leonard used her time as a student to explore opportunities, build connections and grow into a leader. Through organizations like Women in Business Professions (WIBP), Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Management Mentoring Program (MMP), she discovered that her passion was not just in business — it was in helping others succeed.
Now serving as a graduate program advisor, Leonard has come full circle, turning the support she once received into the support she now provides to students.
Q: How did the College of Business help you discover your purpose?
A: The College of Business helped me discover my purpose isn’t tied to a specific job title but more about the impact I have on others. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, I discovered that I am most fulfilled when I am building community and helping others succeed. NIU provided the environment I needed to turn my skills into a meaningful mission.
Q: How did student organizations shape your leadership skills and sense of community at NIU?
A: Being involved in WIBP, SHRM and the MMP helped me build confidence as a leader and connected me with communities of other hardworking students. These organizations taught me that leadership is about showing up consistently, being reliable and supporting others. Each organization offered different areas of growth. WIBP provided a supportive community of driven and inspiring businesswomen. SHRM exposed me to industry professionals, professional expectations and career development. And serving as a mentor for incoming students helped me learn how to build meaningful and lasting professional connections.
Q: You’ve mentioned that mentorship played a big role in your college experience. Who were some mentors that had a lasting impact on you? How did your advisor and professors help support you both academically and professionally?
A: My management professors served as vital mentors who helped me see the bigger picture beyond just getting through class by connecting what I was learning to real careers. They encouraged me to stay involved, seek out opportunities and build my network. My biggest supporter is Steph Horgan in Career Services, who was my undergraduate advisor and career preparation instructor. She was dedicated to her students’ success. Steph connected me with many campus resources and student organizations, all of which heavily contributed to my college experience. Today, Steph is still a big advocate for my success, and I’m grateful to work alongside her in our new roles. Now working as an advisor, I strive to provide that same level of intentional support to make a positive difference for my students.
Q: You’ve held multiple roles at NIU, including assistant to the vice president for Student Affairs and now graduate program advisor. What inspired you to pursue student-facing roles?
A: What inspired me most was the impact that staff and faculty had on me as a student, as well as the roles I played in my student organizations. I know what it feels like to need guidance, encouragement or just someone who genuinely cares about my success, and I want to be that person for others. Student-facing roles are so rewarding because you can see the difference you make, whether it’s helping a student find clarity in their goals or providing the support they need to overcome challenges.
Q: In what ways does your experience as a student help you better support the students you work with today?
A: My student experience helps me relate to students and lead with empathy. I remember juggling work, school, stress and the weight of imposter syndrome. I understand that success isn’t always linear, and things may not go as planned. My perspective allows me to meet students where they are and be a listener who can reassure them that it’s OK to still be figuring it out.
Q: You’re currently pursuing your MBA while working full time. What motivated you to continue your education? How has the online MBA format supported your work-life balance?
A: Honestly, working in the Office of Graduate Business Programs and being surrounded by driven students inspired me. I wanted to continue my education and model the growth mindset that I encourage in my students. Pursuing my MBA is a way for me to invest in myself, strengthen my leadership skills and broaden my future opportunities. The online format gives me the flexibility to work full time while requiring self-discipline. It’s the best option for balancing professional responsibilities while continuing my education.
Q: You participated in a WIBP international trip to Greece. What made this experience meaningful for you?
A: Going to Greece with WIBP pushed me outside of my comfort zone and gave me a global perspective on business, culture and leadership. The relationships I built with the women on that trip remain strong today. Being in another country reminded me how important it is to stay curious and open-minded. We were given incredible opportunities to meet with female global business leaders, who shared empowering and vulnerable stories of how they became successful. It was one of those unforgettable experiences that made me feel proud to be part of NIU.
Q: What advice would you give to current College of Business students who are still trying to find their path?
A: Don’t wait until you feel “ready” to start exploring! Get involved, ask questions, attend events and talk to people in careers you’re curious about. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Also, don’t underestimate the value of relationships. Your network, mentors and campus involvement can open doors faster than you realize. Your path will become clearer the more you expose yourself to new opportunities.
Q: If you could describe your NIU experience in one word or phrase, what would it be?
A: If I had to pick one word, it would be “rooted.” NIU helped shape who I am beyond the degree, and I see it as the place where I will continue to grow in my personal and professional life. It gave me the community and the opportunities that pushed me further than I thought I was capable of. I had no idea who I wanted to become when I came to NIU in 2022. Still being early in my career, I feel like NIU gave me a sense of direction and a purpose that I’m still building on every day.
