Devon Smith

Devon Smith is an operations management and information systems major from Glendale Heights, IL

Hometown: Glendale Heights, IL

High School: Lake Park High School

Year: Expected graduation: Fall 2026

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received NIU's merit scholarship and a scholarship from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), thanks to excelling in high school with a 4.3 GPA on a 5.0 scale. At first, I didn't really understand how much college would cost, and I probably wouldn't have pursued it if I hadn't known about or received the DCFS scholarship or any funding toward college. Earning that scholarship made me realize I couldn't pass up such an amazing opportunity to further my education.

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 younger I always wanted to work with technology, from electrical engineering to web development. I originally thought I would attend the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology or study computer science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, but after my freshman year, my plans changed. I ended up switching to the College of Business, and after changing my major twice, I finally found a path I truly enjoy.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is operations and information management (OMIS), with minors in business analytics and marketing. After exploring several different majors, I found that OMIS was the best fit because it aligns closely with what I’ve always wanted to do.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Something that surprised me about my experience at NIU is how welcoming, supportive and diverse the campus community is. It's been amazing to connect with people from different backgrounds and build friendships that have made my time here truly meaningful.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I've connected with other students through group projects in classes, attending campus events and getting involved in different organizations like Campus Activities Board (CAB) and Omega Delta Fraternity. These opportunities have helped me meet new people, make friends and work together to succeed in school.

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?
Yes, I am involved in several organizations on campus and in the community. I'm currently a member of the Campus Activities Board and hold executive board positions in Omega Delta Fraternity, Barsema's Closet and the Women and Gender Advocacy Alliance. I also serve as a mentor for the Youth Care Advocacy Program at Foster Progress. Throughout my college experience, I've joined many different organizations because I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, connect with others and be part of something meaningful. These leadership and involvement opportunities have truly shaped my experience as a Huskie. Each one has helped me grow in different ways, from building leadership and teamwork skills to learning how to advocate for others. These experiences have taught me the importance of community, service and collaboration.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Financial Aid and Scholarship Office, Center for Student Assistance and Gender and Sexuality Resource Center have always been there for me whenever I needed support. These offices, and the dedicated staff within them, have played an important role in my success at NIU. I want to give a special shout-out to Andrea Allen, Sade Barge and Debra Rempfer from the financial aid office, as well as Jeffery Salmon from the CSA and Sam Glaab-Lanigan from the GSRC. Each one of them has been there to guide me, support me and celebrate my growth throughout my college journey. Their encouragement helped me stay motivated through challenges and reminded me that I'm never alone in this experience. They've taught me the importance of perseverance, self-advocacy and community — lessons I hope to carry as I continue to support others the way they supported me.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors has been Charles Peterson, who taught OMIS 327: Decision Analysis. During his lectures, he always made sure to teach interactively, keeping us engaged and involved in the material.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has helped me stay on top of the material, understand complex topics better and ask questions in real time. It also makes it easier to keep up with assignments and perform well on exams.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus right now is the Holmes Student Center (HSC) Oasis. I'm drawn to it because I know I can always find friends there to study or just hang out with. It's a comfortable space that feels like a second home. Off campus, I enjoy spending time at Cast Iron Coffee in DeKalb and the Greenhouse in Sycamore. Both are great places to relax, catch up with friends or get some work done in a cozy atmosphere.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
I'd suggest choosing a college where you feel supported and challenged at the same time. It is important to consider many things, like the campus community, available support services and the location, because those can make a big difference in your success and happiness. If you're having a hard time choosing a college, I would say to wait because it is never too late to receive your education.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it opens doors to opportunities. It allows me to learn from experts, gain real-world experience and prepare myself to have a positive impact on my profession and community.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I manage my time by keeping a schedule and prioritizing my tasks. I use Notion and a calendar to stay organized and balance school, work and personal commitments. This helps me stay on top of assignments, prepare for exams and make sure I have time for my friends, family and involvement in student organizations. Being intentional with my time allows me to stay productive while making space to recharge and enjoy my college experience.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about campus events and services by checking emails from NIU and following student organizations on social media.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
For relaxation, I like to sing my heart away and listen to different types of music. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. It's a fun way for me to de-stress, express myself and recharge after a busy day.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I currently work at the financial aid office as a student worker and serve as a mentor for the Youth Care Advocacy Program at Foster Progress, under the Center for Student Assistance. In both roles, I enjoy helping other students navigate challenges, providing guidance and support so they succeed, just like others who have helped me along the way. In my free time, I enjoy playing games and binge-watching shows like “One Piece.”

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
My NIU Huskie story has been full of growth, exploration and connection. From changing majors to finding a path I truly enjoy to getting involved in different organizations, I’ve learned the importance of community, leadership and perseverance. I’m grateful for the professors, mentors and friends who have supported me along the way, and I’m excited to continue making the most of my time at NIU.