Name: Kiarra Coleman
Education Institution: University at Albany
Expected Graduation Year: 2024
Degree Program: Psychology
Current Officer Role(s): Chapter President
When did you join NSCS?
I joined NSCS in the Spring of 2021.
What made you become a chapter officer?
When I first joined NSCS, my chapter was inactive on campus, and I was unable to experience all the benefits of being a part of the NSCS community. I decided to be an officer because I wanted to bring back the organization that provides a space on campus where high-achieving scholars can come together and feel supported and heard by one another. I felt it was important to help revive my chapter, so every member had the opportunity to fully partake in all NSCS has to offer.
What was the most unexpected reward you received as an officer so far?
The most unexpected reward so far is knowing that I am inspiring others. After the induction ceremony, many parents and members came up to me and told me they found my words to be inspiring. Knowing that I am having a positive impact on others is what makes this opportunity so worthwhile.
How has your time with NSCS helped prepare you for life after college so far?
NSCS has helped me improve my organizational, leadership, and communication skills. I believe that these skills are essential for my career path, and NSCS has helped me develop them through my officer position.
What is the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important thing I’ve gotten from my time as an undergraduate member is the feeling of being understood. Unless you are a high-achieving individual, it is truly hard to understand how stressful it can be. This organization has given me the opportunity to meet people who truly understand what I am going through and the pressure I feel to do well and be a well-rounded individual.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
After I graduate, I see myself pursuing my master’s in psychology. I would also like to work with troubled children. Service is extremely important to me as I believe in giving back to my community and helping those who are in need. I plan on maintaining my commitment to education and the communities that I am a part of.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
My advice is to try new things. One of the greatest parts about being in college is the vast amount of opportunities available to you. I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity because every experience can be a learning experience if you make it one. You can gain something valuable that allows you to grow not only as a student but as an individual. You get to learn things about yourself and about who you want to be when you step out of your comfort zone and explore new opportunities. It’s amazing that our organization offers opportunities to study abroad or gain work experience through internships. I definitely encourage you to partake in these opportunities because you never know what you might discover.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining their NSCS chapter’s leadership team, what would it be?
Definitely give yourself the time to decide if taking on a leadership role is for you. However, if you are doubting yourself and your capabilities, I encourage you to just apply because you honestly never know what you can do until you try. When I got the position of chapter president at my college, I was so excited and nervous. It was scary to take on such a role, especially when there was no previous president to guide me. I took the role because I knew I wanted to contribute my talents to the NSCS community, and I am so glad that I did. I have come to feel like I am a part of something bigger than myself. I encourage you to take this opportunity and step out of your comfort zone because beautiful things are done and created When we push our boundaries and reach for new horizons. You don’t have to take on more than you can handle, and you work with a group of people that support each other in their roles. Although it can seem overwhelming, it is definitely rewarding.
