Hello, my name is Janae Jackson. Here’s my story!
I’ve not always known what I wanted to do in life, but acting always drew an intrigue. I loved the idea of a creative platform solely meant for expression. However, my high school was not keen on the performing arts. Participating in acting camps and leaping at any opportunity to perform on stage eluded me to pursue acting in college. However, God had other plans.
Freshmen year at Shenandoah University is where I found my true passion. I decided to major in Communication (COMM) with an emphasis in Public Relations. Choosing this field meant working with people, being creative and expressing a means to a beginning. I began work study – a student worker position – as an Assistant Events Coordinator through the Mosaic Center For Diversity – formerly known as Intercultural Programs. Here, I was given the opportunity to plan, conduct and promote events.
This program creates an inclusive space for students to embrace all cultures by inviting individuals from diverse socioeconomic classes, religions and sexual orientations to celebrate education, advocacy and leadership development etc. It was a joy being involved in the beginning stages of a process to see the final results come into fruition. In addition, being a part of a community of people who promote an overall care for others encouraged me to further my desire to help people. My experience in collaborating with diverse groups of people broadened my mind to view individuals, situations and circumstances from various perspectives.
Fasting forward, transferring to Old Dominion University provided more course options for me to continue my bachelor’s degree and has given me opportunities to further my goal to become an Events Coordinator. I plan to gain a Master’s Degree in Volunteer and Outreach or Business. In the future, I aspire to run my own business. Once I become established as a business owner, I plan to give a percentage of my proceeds to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.