Emmanuel Forney

Emmanuel Forney is a marketing major, communications minor

Hometown: Aurora, IL (from Savannah)

High School: Waubonsie Valley High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What high school did you attend?
Waubonsie Valley High School

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was growing up, I dreamt of becoming an NBA player, fueled by a passion for basketball. However, a reality check helped me understand that while nothing is impossible, it just wasn't the right direction for me. In my junior year of high school, my school’s marketing trip to Disney provided a glimpse into the intricacies of marketing, redirecting my aspirations toward this dynamic field. I’m now pursuing my interests and career goals in digital marketing.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is marketing and my minor is communications. I really wanted to pursue marketing after my school’s marketing trip to Disney in high school. It gave me a good glimpse of the workforce I wanted to be a part of. I felt that my communications minor would help me become a better leader, and it has helped me tremendously.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I have really enjoyed the strong backbone the College of Business provides. Associate Dean has been instrumental in my success at NIU; he has been a blessing for me.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
As president of the Black Business Student Association (BBSA) I have had the pleasure of meeting many students on campus. Being part of the club soccer team has also helped me meet great students along the way.

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 am part of BBSA and the club soccer team here at NIU. Both groups have allowed me to be myself and make connections I will cherish forever.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The dean’s office has been very helpful for me along the way. Dean Park has been a good role model and mentor for me during my tenure at NIU.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
Being part of the Honors Program has allowed me to meet Mr. Dennis Barsema and countless other important figures at NIU, which has really been a good experience for me. It’s been very motivating.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I have really enjoyed the workshops I attended, in particular Mr. Barsema’s workshop on leadership!

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Professor Hanna Brown taught my English 103 and 203 classes and was one of the best teachers I ever had. Professor Liu for sales class is also the best. The real-world experience he adds and the format of his class was amazing; he is truly one of a kind.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I have earned a 3.9 GPA at NIU so far, and attending classes has helped me stay around that; it helps you stay locked in and on task.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite places on campus are the library break rooms, because they allow me to focus and prevent me from getting distracted like I normally would in my apartment.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
To take time during the process and understand it’s a big decision that will play a pivotal role in your future. Attending campus tours and doing research to see if you fit matters. That's how I found out NIU was the perfect match for me, and it's been one of the best decisions I've made so far.

Why is a college education important to you?
Because it's something my parents instilled in me and my siblings at a young age. My whole life, I have understood the number of doors that can open for me with a degree, and that knowledge has helped motivate me and keep me locked in with my classes.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
On Sunday, I prepare and organize what I need to do for the week in advance, so I don't miss assignments. This allows me to stay on task and get my schoolwork done first, after that I am able to spend time with family and friends.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I get all of my information about events and services via my school email, which has been very helpful in my three years here.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Playing soccer at the club practices and games allows me to relax and recharge. Although we are running a lot and getting a lot of cardio in, it gives me a boost and takes my stress away at the moment.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I really like playing soccer and basketball as my hobbies. It's nice way to relax and have fun. The internship I have this summer will be in marketing, and I look forward to learning as much as possible!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
Coming to NIU has given me tools and mentors to help me be successful in the workforce.