Tiauna King

Tiauna King is a literacy education graduate student and online educational leadership and policy studies doctoral student from Chicago, IL

Hometown: Chicago, IL

High School: Naperville Central High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2026

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 in preschool at a daycare called Small World Learning Center in Chicago, I had two amazing teachers, Ms. Brenda and Ms. Pam. These teachers were such beautiful individuals and truly believed in each student who came through their daycare. They gave me a light, and I was able to shine with all the gifts I was born with in this program. I knew I wanted to help kids when I got older. Originally, I wanted to be a pediatrician or work in the medical field with children, but one day I lost my job as a secretary at the University of Kentucky medical center because they lost their grant. Someone in the office told me I should apply at the daycare down the street because they were always looking for young teachers. I applied and got the job. I loved working there so much that I changed my major to early childhood education, and the rest is history. I am now pursuing my doctoral degree in education.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am currently working on two degrees: a master’s degree in literacy education and a doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy studies. I am a special education teacher, and I aspire to be a director of special education one day. So, I want to further my education to help my current students and to one day help and advocate for the teachers who come after me.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I have found that NIU makes an effort to embrace and showcase diversity across the school in every program. I enjoy equity work and love to see my school make such an effort to empower and share the importance of diversity.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have had the opportunity to meet new people and connect with students through online courses. My professors also do a great job of connecting me to other students and alumni who could help me on my educational journey.

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 not involved in school organizations, but I am involved in statewide equity work. I am one of the first Illinois Affinity Group Network facilitators, mentors and advisory board members.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the College of Education.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Teresa Wasonga. She has been a great resource in my research for my dissertation. She is very knowledgeable, kind and willing to help in any way she can.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
It has created structure to my life and helped me gain connections I wouldn't have made if it wasn't for my program. I have also met some amazing professors who have shared so much knowledge in the field of education.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love the library. I just think it's fascinating how much you get accomplished while still socializing. You can learn so much about the campus and people while being at the campus library.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When researching colleges, look for campuses that celebrate diversity and offer opportunities to learn from people with different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Choose a school that values your unique learning style and provides support systems to help you grow both academically and personally.

Why is a college education important to you?
When I was about 5 years old, my siblings and I were placed with my grandparents. My grandfather was big on education and was the first in our family to receive a doctorate. He passed away in January of this year. I always wanted to work toward getting a doctorate so he could see how much he influenced me to continue my education and make a better life for me and my kids. I am a single mother of three and an adoptive parent. I want to continue to be the example my grandfather was to me. It was really hard being a teen mother, but education ultimately saved my life and my kids’ lives.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I have a very structured schedule. I am grateful for my Outlook calendar because it helps me manage and schedule everything I need to do while managing self-care. I also have amazing people in my village who hold me accountable for all my responsibilities as well as self-care.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I read the department newsletters and stay on top of my email.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I work out at my gym as a Zumba and yoga instructor. I help myself take self-care time, and I help others relax and recharge.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am a social-emotional learning self-contained special education teacher. I am also a mentor and advisory board member for the Illinois Affinity Group Network for educators of color. In my spare time, I teach Zumba and yoga classes at Crunch Fitness.