Jefferson Kiteme

Jefferson Kiteme is an instructional technology graduate student from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

High School: Machakos 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?
Growing up, I dreamed of becoming a pilot. But as I got older, especially during high school, my interests shifted. Getting involved in entrepreneurship, coding and national-level science projects opened my eyes to the world of business innovation and technology. That journey led me to pursue a degree in strategic management, then a global MBA and now a master’s in instructional technology. Even though I took a different path from my childhood dream, I’m excited about the work I’m doing now; it feels like the right fit.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I'm currently pursuing a Master of Science in Education in instructional technology after recently finishing my Master of Business Administration (global MBA) here at NIU in the fall of 2024. I chose these areas because I’m passionate about how strategy, innovation and technology can create positive change, whether in education, business or beyond. My goal is to help build solutions that have a real impact.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
I am currently participating in a faculty-mentored research project at NIU that examines human behavior and technology, with a focus on how individuals interact with digital platforms. This area interests me deeply because it bridges my passion for technology, strategic thinking and understanding human motivations. Exploring these dynamics allows me to see how technology can be better designed to enhance user experiences and support meaningful engagement.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Conducting research has significantly enriched my education by allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. It has sharpened my skills in data collection, critical analysis and academic writing. More importantly, it has taught me how to approach complex problems methodically, work collaboratively with faculty and contribute original insights to ongoing conversations in my field.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
This research experience has prepared me to tackle real-world challenges with an evidence-based mindset. Whether in future academic pursuits or in industry roles, I will be able to analyze trends, interpret behavioral data and contribute to the development of innovative strategies. Additionally, having research experience strengthens my qualifications for future doctoral studies and positions me competitively in both the educational and business sectors.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
Several faculty members have been instrumental in my research success. Dr. Andy Jeon has provided exceptional mentorship, guiding me through the research process with insight, patience and encouragement. Additionally, Dr. Christopher Mitchell, Dr. T. Ajewole Duckett and Dr. Valeria Penttinen have played crucial roles by offering academic support, professional development opportunities and a consistent belief in my potential. Their collective mentorship has not only strengthened my research skills, but also inspired my broader academic and career aspirations.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
I would advise incoming students to actively seek research opportunities early in their academic journey. Research at NIU is an incredible platform to develop critical-thinking, problem-solving and collaboration skills. Students should not hesitate to approach faculty members, ask questions and express their interests. Building strong mentor relationships and remaining open to new areas of exploration can significantly enhance both personal and professional growth.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One of the most pleasant surprises at NIU has been the university's commitment to student leadership and empowerment. I was entrusted with leading significant initiatives such as the Black Graduation Program and Culture Fest 2024. This level of trust and responsibility not only enhanced my leadership skills, but also made me feel deeply valued within the NIU community.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have actively connected with fellow students through involvement in organizations like the Black Business Students Association and the UMI. Additionally, my roles as a graduate assistant have provided opportunities to collaborate with peers on academic projects and campus events, fostering both professional relationships and lasting friendships.

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?
While I’m not directly involved in any student organizations, I work and collaborate with various student organizations through the Center for Black Studies to support NIU’s retention goals and mission. This collaboration has allowed me to engage in meaningful initiatives, enhance student engagement and contribute to fostering a sense of community on campus. It has also helped me connect with other students, faculty and staff, which has enriched my experience at NIU and allowed me to contribute to the university's broader goals.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Center for Black Studies (CBS) has been an invaluable resource in ensuring my academic and personal success at Northern Illinois University. Their focus on diversity, inclusion and academic excellence has provided a supportive environment where I can thrive. Through my role as a graduate research and teaching assistant at CBS, I’ve been able to collaborate on meaningful initiatives like the Black Graduation Program and Culture Fest 2024, which has enhanced my leadership and event-management skills. Additionally, the marketing department has been instrumental to my growth, providing opportunities to engage in academic projects that refine my skills in digital marketing, consumer behavior and global marketing strategies. The combination of these resources has helped me feel both supported and empowered in my academic journey.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors has been Dr. Mahesh Subramony, who taught me management at Northern Illinois University. I appreciated his practical approach to teaching, his emphasis on real-world application and his engaging pedagogy. His classes challenged me to think critically and connected theory to practice in a way that was inspiring and memorable.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I have benefited tremendously from attending class regularly by staying consistently engaged with the course material, actively participating in discussions and building strong relationships with my professors and classmates. Regular attendance has helped me deeply understand concepts, complete assignments with confidence and apply what I learned, both academically and professionally. It also instilled discipline, strong time-management skills and a genuine appreciation for the learning process.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spots on campus are the Recreation Center and the East Lagoon. I’m drawn to the Rec Center because it’s where I can work out, de-stress and maintain my physical and mental health. The lagoon, on the other hand, is a peaceful place where I can relax, reflect and recharge amidst a busy schedule.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
My advice is to choose a college that feels like a true community, a place where you’ll not only get a strong education, but also find support, opportunities for involvement and personal growth. Visit the campus if you can, talk to current students and ask yourself if you can see yourself thriving there.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it opens doors to new opportunities, builds critical-thinking and leadership skills, and equips me to make meaningful contributions in my field and my community. It’s also a personal journey of growth, discovery and building a strong foundation for my future.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use strict time-management techniques like maintaining a detailed planner, setting clear priorities and creating structured blocks of time for school, work and personal life. Staying organized and being disciplined about my schedule allows me to balance everything effectively without feeling overwhelmed.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed by regularly checking my NIU email, following NIU’s social media pages, attending campus events and staying in touch with student organizations and departments that send out updates and announcements.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax or recharge, I work out at the Rec Center, spend quiet time by the lagoon, listen to music, go for walks, ride my bike, brew some Kenyan coffee or simply disconnect from screens for a while to focus on mindfulness and reflection.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work as a graduate research and teaching assistant at Northern Illinois University, supporting faculty with coursework management, student engagement and event planning. My hobbies include working out, traveling, photography, reading, writing and exploring different creative projects like graphic design and cooking.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
NIU has been a place of growth for me, not just academically, but personally and professionally. I've had the chance to learn from incredible professors, work with amazing mentors and be part of a supportive community that pushes me to keep striving for more. Every experience here, from class projects to campus events, has helped shape who I am today. I’m proud to be a Huskie and excited for the future NIU has helped me build.