Zakiya Covington is a recent graduate of the Master of Education College Counseling and Student Development Program and a Student Affairs professional at NC State with a focus in career and personal development. As a first-generation college student, she is aware of the grit, motivation, and willpower it takes to succeed academically at any institution given the various challenges we face. Her work with TRIO, and other programs and initiatives that serve underrepresented and non-traditional students, has provided her with the experience necessary to successfully and holistically support students from diverse backgrounds and ensure academic success.