Vivian Haynes

Vivian Haynes is a business administration major from Dahinda, IL

Hometown: Dahinda, IL

High School: ROWVA High School

Year: Expected graduation: Fall 2028

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received an NIU merit scholarship and the Ari and Ruth Kovacevich Distinguished Scholarship Fund. I received the merit scholarship due to my good grades and commitment to academic excellence. I received the Ari and Ruth Kovacevich Distinguished Scholarship Fund for my active engagement in the University Honors Program and outstanding academic performance. These scholarships have helped lift the financial weight of college and have enabled me to work harder for my degree and commit more to the honors program so I can have even more opportunities.

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 was always told I would be a great lawyer. Turns out that's just a nicer way for adults to call you argumentative, but I took "great lawyer" to mean great business leader. I did want to be a lawyer, but I had more aspirations to run a business and make some changes in the world.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is business administration, and I decided on this course of study because I grew up seeing my dad run a business and how much he has been able to give back to our community through his work.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I was pleasantly surprised by how all of my professors really want me to succeed and will push you to that finish line.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I found my core group of friends during Week of Welcome and from my first days of class. I met my best friends by sitting by them in class and being brave enough to start a conversation. From there, I just made more friends by being a good friend.

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 have been involved with Women in Business Professions (WIBP). It was a great way to get me out of my dorm and make more connections.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I have not utilized any NIU offices to their full potential yet.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The University Honors Program has given me access to more scholarships, which has helped me get a lot closer to my career goals.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I enjoy how the Honors Program makes me feel more involved on campus and has connected me to more people.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor has been Andrew Setterstrom. He was my OMIS professor and was very helpful when I needed assistance in class and was also very personable and easy to talk to.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
By attending class regularly, I am better equipped for exams and quizzes, and I retain the lectured information better.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot is the Holmes Student Center by the fireplace. The fireplace makes it cozy and the perfect place to do homework or study.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
I would tell a student researching colleges to look into the graduation rate and cost. Knowledge can never be taken away no matter where you get it, so you might as well get it from an institution that doesn't put you in debt.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education enables me to have a better job and more connections, as well as vital life experiences.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I always get my schoolwork done first. I also prioritize my time with my friends and family, but not to the point where I am losing out on educational opportunities.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
My friends are the main way I stay informed about campus events, but I also learn about them through email.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge after classes, I work out, take a shower, then watch some TV or read my books.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work at Blumen Gardens in Sycamore. I am part time, so I get a lot of flexibility when it comes to school. The job itself is actually really entertaining, and it’s a good way to spend my weekends while making some money.