Yanique Spencer

Delaware State University has talented students from all across the globe pursuing their degrees and life experiences. A common goal amongst students is to walk across the stage with their degree and get their dream job. The transition from being a student and preparing to go into the workforce is different for all. Senior student-athlete, Jade King, is preparing to transition into a new stage of her life. She hopes that she can help people transition from being students to becoming work professionals and figure out their paths. 

Below is the text of my interview with Jade King: 

Q: Where were you born and what was your upbringing like?

A: I was born in West Covina, California. My upbringing was good for the most part. My parents were divorced at a young age, so it was hard but overall I give it an 8/10. 

Q: Who has been the greatest influence in your life that has impacted the woman you are today? 

A: I would have to say my grandma. She has always been there for me and is my rock. She always taught me to love who I am and to achieve my dreams. 

Q: Can you tell us of your major and what your goals or life ambitions is when you graduate college?

A: I major in Forensic Biology. When I graduate I plan on pursuing my masters in Biological Science. After I get my master degree, I will go to medical school to become a pathologist.

Q: What was the most memorable point at school?

A: Being a student athlete here at Delaware State. I have made friends for a lifetime and had the chance to travel the country playing softball. There are so many funny stories from over the years that I can cherish forever. 

Q: Is this where you thought you’d be 5 or so years ago?

A: Absolutely not! I am from California, and you don’t hear about Delaware. My school also did not push HBCUs so Delaware State was not even on my radar. I knew I wanted to go far from home, but did not think Delaware will be my new one. 

Q: What are your plans for the future? 

A: I want to obviously be successful as a pathologist. I want to work in a place with a high crime rate. I also want to find new hobbies to enjoy once I hang my cleats up. Staying on the east coast is ideal and I want to build a wonderful family of my own. 

Q: What kind of advice would you offer a student, who is undecided on his or her career path? 

A: It is okay not to know your career path! There are many pivots in peoples careers and they do not always stay with their initial major. Talk to professionals in your area of interests to see if that is something you deeply care for. Life does not have one path so why not take different ones. 

Q: What about virtual learning or telecommuting? 

A: Virtual learning has its positives and negatives of course. Going into my third year of it, I have gotten used to learning online. It is hard to have consistent classes when there are internet issues and I miss content. Now going back in person is actually weird and I prefer online learning. 

Q: What keeps you going during these trying times? 

A: My dog Remi, friends, family, and my boyfriend keep me sane during these times. They make sure I am ok and keep my spirits up whenever I feel down. Having them has honestly made the pandemic easy to navigate through. 

Q: What are your hobbies or extracurricular activities? 

A: I always love to do art whether it is painting or drawing.  I have many that I recently picked up during the pandemic. I enjoy making clothes with my sewing machine and cooking new recipes! But most importantly being a dog mom is always fun! 

Q:     How would you describe your philosophy of life? That is, how do you see this life and what principles get you grounded and moving forward? 

A: You only live once, so you have to do what you want to do and do not take others’ opinions seriously.

Q: Let us end this interview with a memorable quote from you. How would you describe yourself to the world? 

A: I am not living for the moment, I live for eternity. 

College has been a place for growth, building connections, and creating memories for Jade. While making her time at Delaware State University memorable, Jade offers new outlooks on how to prepare for life after college and post college opportunities. Through the pandemic Jade has found her passions outside of her career to help better herself and community.