Although Kayli Allen had decided to attend the University of North Georgia (UNG) during her dual-enrollment at UNG and an accelerated home education program, she took her time to choose a major.
"I did a lot of research when I was trying to figure out what career to learn about. My mom was a business major and accountant. I realized business was a broad field that could open a lot of opportunities and I have a very logical mindset. I felt it would be a very practical application. I felt like it clicked with my brain," the Buford, Georgia, native said.
Allen took a class in person the summer before her freshman year. The class took place in what she refers to as her home away from home, the Martha T. Nesbitt building, and allowed her to grow close to some of her classmates. One of those classmates would go on to serve as her mentor. This experience ultimately shaped her decision to help her peers as a Nighthawk Navigator.
Nighthawk Navigators mentor freshmen on campus, serving as peer coaches and sharing their own experiences and strategies for academic success at UNG.
"I feel it's so important to be empathetic. I know how hard it is to transition to college. Showing that I understand where freshmen are coming from is how I am successful in showing students that I've been where they are and help them feel more comfortable," Allen said.
Allen describes leadership as a big responsibility requiring humility. Something she does not share very often is just how humbling maintaining her leadership and scholastic efforts may be.
Allen manages with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a joint disorder, which often leaves her feeling tired and in a lot of pain. Despite her challenges, Allen keeps her mind on being successful despite what she may be going through and believes others can do it too.
"I encourage my peers to do their best, but don't obsess over the outcome," Allen said. "At the end of the day, as long as they feel OK with what they have done, that is enough."
