Celeste Mays

Celeste Mays is an operations management and information systems major from Gurnee, IL

Hometown: Gurnee, IL

High School: Warren Township High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

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 CNA/AZEL Carter Scholarship and the Deutsch Family Scholarship for my academic achievements and leadership potential. These scholarships have greatly alleviated my financial stress, allowing me to focus more on my studies and excel in my classes. By easing the burden of student debt, they enable me to manage academic pressures more effectively and concentrate on achieving my educational goals.

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 wanted to be a doctor and pursued a pre-med track during my first year-and-a-half at NIU, even working as an EMT-B for two years. However, I realized my passion for travel and new experiences was stronger. As the pressure of taking the MCAT approached, I decided a lifelong commitment to medicine was not the right path for me. I shifted my focus to a major that aligns with my desire for flexibility. I am now on track to become an IT project manager and aspire to advance to roles such as director or VP of operations, or a similar position in that realm.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is operations and information management. I chose it because I wanted a career that would allow me to travel and use my skills in organizing and making things work better. I found project management to be a great fit for me. This major helps me earn more and gives me many career options.

Have you conducted an internship?
Yes

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
I found my internship on Google Jobs and applied directly on the website. It was with Centene Corporation as an IT project manager, which was exactly what I wanted, and it was remote.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
My internship was invaluable as it allowed me full autonomy and to manage projects independently. This hands-on experience provided me with true insights into a career in project management.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy the community at NIU. Finding the right people, joining clubs and meeting others with similar interests really made my time here better.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
To succeed in tough classes like math or science, I stepped out of my comfort zone and connected with classmates. Working together helped us learn from each other, and studying with one of my classmates helped us develop a strong friendship.

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 the secretary of the Black Business Student Association (BBSA). Our goal is to support Black students in achieving academic and professional success by providing them with valuable tools and resources. This role is a passion project for me and gives me a deep sense of purpose, as it allows me to help my community.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The campus health center and NIU’s mental health services have been really helpful in managing the stress of school. I also appreciate the many free resources for career development, like internship and job fairs, resume advice and interview tips. NIU has so much to offer — you just have to make use of it!

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
I’ve had many great professors, but I especially appreciate those who engage with students outside of class. I love when they discuss topics related to the course in a fun and enthusiastic way, showing their passion for the subject.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has been really beneficial. There's a study showing that your attendance often matches your grade — so if you’re there 75% of the time, you might get a 75% in the class. Even on tough days, just being present helps a lot. It’s a great habit that keeps me engaged and helps me get more out of the course.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot is the East Lagoon because I enjoy walking and taking in nature. It’s peaceful and full of wildlife, which makes it a serene escape.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Follow your heart, but also be financially smart. Choose a college that feels right for you without compromising your future. Enjoy the experience, but don’t let a few years of fun jeopardize your long-term goals.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is very important to me, especially as a Black woman, because it represents progress for those who couldn’t attend college in the past. It makes me proud and honors those who didn’t have the chance. I also love learning and believe there's always more to discover. Despite the high cost, education is essential and valuable.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I’m passionate about time management and have learned a lot from books and videos. My top strategies are using calendar reminders, making to-do lists and prioritizing tasks. Calendars help me remember everything without stress, to-do lists keep me organized and prioritization ensures that I focus on what’s most important. Planning ahead truly does alleviate most of the time-management stress.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about campus events and services through my community, classmates and friends. I also keep an eye on the flyers posted around campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax, I enjoy bed rotting while watching TV shows, movies or YouTube videos. I also love taking walks. Being alone and in my own space helps me recharge.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I enjoy reading, painting, drawing, watching YouTube and organizing. As a project management intern, I get to combine my hobby with work by organizing project plans and ensuring everything stays on track, on budget and within scope.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I haven’t had an easy life, but it doesn’t define who I am, and it shouldn’t define you either.