Akili Jones

Akili Jones is a psychology major from Rockford, IL

Hometown: Rockford, IL

High School: Auburn High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2026

Minors: nonprofit and NGO studies, counseling, women’s and gender studies and LGBTQ+ studies

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I have received the Dunn Memorial Scholarship, the Kovacevich Scholarship and an NIU merit scholarship. I am also a recipient of the Rockford Promise Scholarship. These scholarships were awarded based on my academic record, involvement and financial need. The support has lowered the economic burden of pursuing higher education, allowing me to focus more on my classes, leadership roles and internships without the constant stress of financial concerns.

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 aspired to be a veterinarian. However, in high school, I discovered a passion for psychology, which is why I chose it as my major.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is psychology with minors in nonprofit and NGO studies, counseling, women’s and gender studies and LGBTQ+ studies. I mentioned finding my interest in psychology in high school, but I chose my major and minors to understand more about intersectionality and to help make the world a better place. I know the many introversions that every single individual has, and at the end of the day, we are human and deserve to be heard; that is what made me decide on my course of study.

Have you conducted an internship?
Yes

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
I think I am very proactive in my endeavors, so I look for internships myself or apply when I see a flyer through email or on Instagram. I search for internships that fit me and my major and challenge me to improve my crisis-intervention and listening skills. Sites like Google, as well as a few personality tests taken in lectures, helped me understand which field I might be interested in, and having that insight about myself actually aided my search for internships, as well.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
My internships help prepare me for my career by putting me in the environment and holding me accountable in the helping professions. They challenge me and continue to motivate my career aspirations.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One thing I have found pleasantly surprising about NIU is the amount of support available for students once you start seeking it out. Counseling and Consultation Services, the Center for Student Assistance and other resources located in the Peters Campus Life Building have been especially impactful. Whether it’s mental health support, academic guidance or help navigating personal challenges, I’ve always felt like there was someone willing to guide me or connect me with what I needed. These offices have helped me feel more supported and confident in my journey at NIU.

How did the CHANCE Program help with your transition into NIU?
The CHANCE Program has been instrumental in my transition to NIU. As a first-generation college student, CHANCE provided me with mentorship, workshops and a community of peers who understood the challenges I was facing. It gave me the confidence and tools to navigate college life successfully. Opportunities have also been presented to me through this program: I am a mentor in the CHANCE Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program and president of the Alpha Eta Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon, the honors society within CHANCE. These roles have allowed me to grow as a leader and give back to the community that supported me.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I’ve connected with students through both classes and student organizations. Group study sessions, campus events and leadership programs have given me the opportunity to form friendships and expand my network while staying engaged academically.

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 involved in several organizations, including the Rockford Promise Club (vice president), Chi Alpha Epsilon Honors Society (president) and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (social chair). I am also a member of the Association for Black Psychologists, Psi Chi, the National Society of Leadership and Success and the John Henrik Clarke Honors Society. In addition, I mentor through the CHANCE Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program. These involvements have enriched my NIU experience by providing me with leadership opportunities, a strong support network and the chance to serve my community, both on and off campus.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
Counseling and Consultation Services has been a huge resource for me, both professionally and personally. As a student worker, I’ve seen firsthand the support they provide to students, and I’ve also been able to lean on their resources. The CHANCE Program, the Honors Program, and the nonprofit and NGO studies faculty have also made me feel safe, supported and motivated to succeed.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The Honors Program has supported me academically by giving me access to smaller, discussion-based courses that challenge me to think critically. It has also opened the door to scholarships, leadership opportunities and faculty connections that align with my career aspirations in psychology and nonprofit work.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I enjoy the community within the Honors Program the most. Being surrounded by peers who are equally motivated and faculty who care deeply about our growth has been inspiring.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite course is one that I am currently taking: HON 410 - Kendrick Lamar: Counter Storytelling, taught by Dr. Joseph Flynn and Dr. Michael Manderino. Now, I’ll admit there might be a little recency bias here (it’s hard not to pick the class you’re excited about right now!), but this course genuinely stands out. It blends music, culture and social commentary, allowing us to examine how Kendrick Lamar’s work serves as a form of counter storytelling that challenges dominant narratives. The class has even changed how I listen to music. I find myself unpacking lyrics differently, looking for deeper themes and connections, and recognizing how artists use their platforms to tell stories that often go unheard. It has also shifted the way I look at media as a whole, pushing me to view films, shows and even news stories through the lens of counter stories and to wonder whose perspective is being centered and whose is missing.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has kept me accountable and engaged. It ensures I don’t miss key discussions and allows me to build relationships with classmates and professors that wouldn’t be possible if I only relied on the textbook or recordings. Although it may be hard on some days, showing up is a way I practice resilience and remind myself of the importance of consistency in reaching my goals.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the Holmes Student Center, as it truly feels like the heart that keeps the NIU campus beating. From student organizations hosting events and the Campus Activities Board planning activities, to grabbing food at Qdoba or finding a corner to “study,” the student center brings everything together in one place. It’s where you can feel the energy of campus life, connect with others and carve out your own space when you need it. For me, it’s the best place to be on campus.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
My advice is to take chances and risk some embarrassment to get out of your comfort zone. College is supposed to be the time when you learn more about yourself and experience as much as you can. This is your chance to freely be yourself, start fresh and explore opportunities you may not have considered before. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, get involved and lean on the resources your university offers, from scholarships to student organizations, because those experiences can truly define your college journey.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it provides both knowledge and opportunity. As a first-generation student, I know I’m paving the way for future generations in my family. My education gives me the tools to create change and uplift communities, which has always been my goal.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use a detailed physical planner and Outlook calendar to organize my time between classes, work and leadership roles. I dedicate specific blocks of time to studying, self-care and extracurriculars. Setting boundaries and being intentional with my time has helped me strike a balance between school, work, friends and family. Use your planners!

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about events and services by checking my NIU email daily, following NIU departments and organizations on Instagram, and staying active in group chats with peers who share opportunities.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I enjoy journaling, listening to music, working out and spending time with my sorority sisters and friends. Sometimes I need quiet time in my room or at the movie theater solo to reset before a busy week.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I currently work at NIU Counseling and Consultation Services as a front desk receptionist. I manage scheduling, intake calls and coordination for students seeking support. Outside of work, I enjoy creative projects, journaling, watching anime and exploring music.