Nia Gibson ’20 has always wanted to uplift communities and make the world a safer place. And, through her education at John Jay and work with the Office of Community Outreach and Service Learning (COSL) and CUNY Service Corps she’s put that desire into action. “John Jay’s reputation as a school that promotes public service and teaches students to put the community first spoke volumes to me. It made John Jay my dream school,” says Gibson, a senior graduating with a bachelor's degree in Fraud Examination and Financial Forensics. “In my four years at the College, I’ve been given the tools to make a difference in my community and help people in need. That’s priceless to me.” After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, Gibson plans to pursue a master’s degree in Public Administration at John Jay, focusing on Inspection and Oversight. “I would love to further my education, gain a deeper understanding of public policy, and increase my community outreach work,” she says. We spoke with Gibson to learn more about her time working with COSL and CUNY Services Corps and get insight into her future plans.

What made you want to come to John Jay and what was life like before John Jay?
I’ve had a passion for criminal justice ever since I was a child, and I wanted to join the law enforcement field. John Jay piqued my interest. The school represented a strong foundation for the field of criminal justice and I wanted to be a part of something that teaches students how to put the community first and keep people safe.

When you first came to John Jay, what were some of your biggest challenges? How did you overcome them?
One of my biggest challenges was switching majors my freshman year. I wanted to switch to something that represented me more as an individual—that change was a huge decision. I had to meet with my advisor and change my entire academic plan in a short amount of time. I also had to deal with my own self-doubt, which started to affect me tremendously. I had to sit down and dig deep to see what would truly make me happy. Making the switch and majoring in Fraud Examination and Financial Forensics was the best decision I ever made because it opened up so many opportunities for me. 

Can you tell us about your experience with COSL? What made you want to join COSL and how has it shaped you as a person?
I always wanted to be a part of something that makes people feel seen, heard, and understood, and that’s what COSL does for everyone that crosses its path. COSL is a welcoming organization that is community focused— it’s filled with people that want to positively impact others. Members of COSL take the time to listen to everyone’s concerns, and they’re always there to lend a hand. My whole COSL experience was amazing. It helped me evolve as a person and made me realize how much I value helping others.

Can you tell us about your most memorable COSL event? Why did that event impact you so deeply?
The most memorable COSL event I took part in was the meal pack-a-thon this past fall. That day, I put on my CUNY Service Corps T-shirt and stood in front of the packing station where I was able to help pack over 10,000 meals with fellow students. I was grateful to take part in such a beneficial event. It reminded me of how fortunate I am. And, knowing I played a part in helping to feed others warms my heart to this day. It has shown me that a simple act can go a long way.

As a part of CUNY Service Corps, can you describe what it’s like working on Service Corps projects? What specific CUNY Service Corps experience do you think will stay with you for a lifetime?
Being part of the program and working on the projects was engaging and educational. CUNY Service Corps was where I was able to connect with people who were as passionate as me about community outreach. I felt like I was in the coolest, most exclusive club. Through the program you get an internship and I was placed as an accounting clerk intern working for a non-profit organization called Digital Girl Inc., which is a program dedicated to getting inner city girls interested in pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). This was a positive turning point in my life because I gained valuable experience in the accounting field and acquired skills I can use once I graduate.

If all goes well, where do you see yourself in five years? Why is this your current goal? 
In five years, I see myself working for a government organization as a Certified Fraud Examiner. Also, I hope to open my own non-profit focused on helping disadvantaged youths and children living with disabilities. As someone who has a disability, I know how it feels to be overwhelmed and want to give up. Children should know that they are not alone. They have someone in their corner motivating and supporting them.

Is there a particular classroom, fellowship, or internship experience that helped shape you as a person? What did that experience teach you?
In order to obtain a certificate in Dispute Resolution, I interned at Upward Bound, an outreach program that helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds transition from high school to college. I had the opportunity to teach students about conflict resolution and how they could use it in their everyday lives. Connecting with students taught me patience, determination, and how important mentors are.

Since this isn’t a traditional semester—and for safety reasons, we need to continue to practice social distancing—how do you hope to celebrate graduating from John Jay?
My parents have planned a family dinner filled with all my favorite foods and desserts. They’re so proud of me and I’m so grateful for their love and support. The fact that I can celebrate my achievement of graduating college with the people I love most is such a blessing to me. I’ll also be doing a graduation photoshoot where I will wear my cap and gown, have fun and just enjoy the moment. I have a lot to be grateful for.