Jess Vandiver

Jess Vandiver is a first-generation marketing major from Bartlett, IL

Hometown: Bartlett, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
All my life, I’ve loved helping people. I joined Best Buddies in high school and sought to become a special education teacher at a young age. As I got older, my hobbies became a great interest to me, and I began to pursue marketing/social media. In effort to combine my interests and passion, I'm hoping to land a job on a nonprofit fundraising/marketing team. So currently, I am majoring in marketing.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am majoring in marketing. I chose this course of study because I love working with people and it’s a career I genuinely enjoy. I was never good at sports or had a special talent, but I have a deep passion for my work and valuable/successful results. That’s why I landed on marketing.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Although it’s a smaller school, I've found comfort in many aspects of NIU. Being able to call this place home has been a great blessing. I love all the small DeKalb perks that no one would understand unless they went to NIU.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Right when I came to school, I joined a sorority. I fully immersed myself in this organization and have made friendships that truly will last a lifetime.

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! I am an executive member of Tri Sigma and an active member of Women In Business Professions (WIBP). Being in Tri SIgma has given me so many leadership opportunities and friendships that will last beyond NIU. I just joined WIBP, and so far, I have nothing but good things to say. The women in this club are amazing! There are so many events where I'm able to meet people in my major.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The NIU sales program and many people in the College of Business have always assisted me with any major struggles or questions.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Elizabeth Grant. Although I am not an accountancy major and don’t have a deep connection with her, she's been nothing but a pleasure. You can tell she has a passion for teaching and makes coming to class fun.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I've benefited by meeting so many new classmates and actually getting a good understanding of what I am learning. I love my daily routine and have learned to make class fun again!

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love the quad area in front of Davis Hall. Funny to say, but I feel like I'm really "in college" when I’m studying outside on a nice day.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Don't always go where your friends are going. Don't go for the flashy locations. Go where you think you will gain the most opportunities and best financial outcome.

Why is a college education important to you?
I am the first person in my family to graduate from a four-year university. My mom was born in Mexico, and her family came to the US for better opportunities. I see all my mom’s hard work and want to make her proud. She was a teen mom and didn't get to experience the "teenage dream.” I want to thank her for what she gave up for my brother and I, and make her proud!

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Balance. And it’s okay to say no. I get FOMO like no other, but learning it’s okay to say no to things has made my schedule a lot less hectic.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Reading the Northern Star.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Clean, organize or work out.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I currently am a server at Texas Roadhouse, and I love it!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
Overall, I am thankful for the college experience I have been able to have and am continuing to have. I graduated early from high school because I wanted to do something more, to find myself and figure out who I am. NIU has given me the opportunity to become the best version of myself.