Meet Nacyllia 

Name: Nacyllia Chambers

Class of: 2024

Program: Master of Science in Psychology w/ a conc. in Forensic Psychology

"Thank you very much for the donations given to support the academic needs of individuals like myself."

On March 21, 2024, Nacyllia was recognized at the annual Penmen Pursuits Awards Ceremony. The Penmen Pursuits Awards recognize SNHU students who have made their unique SNHU story a success. This could be a student who has overcome significant obstacles to be at SNHU, a student who has found a way to connect in-class and out-of-class experiences to create integrated learning opportunities, or a student leader who might not otherwise be recognized. It might be a student conducting inspiring research or a student engaged in community service efforts. The award was developed by the Office of Student Involvement, part of Student Affairs, and nominations are reviewed by a selection committee with representatives from across the university. Hear more about Nacyllia's SNHU experience, in her own words:

What do you like most about SNHU?

I really like that there are a vast number of resources available to me as a full-time online student. I also like the lifelong connections I make getting involved in clubs outside of my classes.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

My drive motivates and allows me to register for three courses per term after completing my first term. My financial aid does not cover the third course, which causes me to incur out-of-pocket expenses. Scholarships are beneficial to me as they help cover the tuition and material costs for the third course, which overall aids in the successful completion of my program.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

Thank you very much for the donations given to support the academic needs of individuals like myself. Every little bit helps. I truly appreciate the help and I hope to make the very best use of it. Please continue doing your part to help shape great minds for the future. You're appreciated more than you may ever know.

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

I believe SNHU chose me while I was experiencing the most difficult time of my life. I'm a proud student of this institution. I've since completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology, and I'm currently pursuing my Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. As a full-time online student, SNHU allows me to maintain flexibility as I tackle my courses, be a mother and remain a full-time employee.  

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

My hope in receiving a college education is to become a member of the most experienced and elite forensic psychologists. This way I'll be able to do my part in ensuring social justice is maintained throughout society.

At first I doubted becoming a full-time online student. However, with all the resources available to me as an online student and the lifelong connections I've made, my experience has been remarkably amazing. I pride myself on being a well-rounded individual. As the current President of the Psychology club and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, I'm able to continue meeting this goal.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

I practice emotional intelligence in all aspects of my life, and I've always been fascinated by the way the mind works. Being able to analyze and understand the minds of those who defy the law and authority piques my interest. As such, I chose to study psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology. My dream job is to become forensic psychologist.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

I would like to highlight three individuals who helped to make my journey at SNHU one I'll continuously remember. Jennifer Cohenour, my undergraduate academic advisor, played a vital role in my success as an undergraduate student. She is nothing short of amazing. Dr. Barbara Lesniak (Executive Director of Social Sciences) encouraged me to pursue my master's degree. She also employed the mentorship skills and expertise of Dr. Derrick Jones (criminal justice professor) to guide me to this next chapter of my academic journey. These three individuals are my biggest influences. I appreciate them more than they know and I'm truly grateful to have crossed path with them. I'm a disciplined young lady. With their guidance and words of encouragement, I've attained success by practicing better time management, remaining patient and continuing to stay true to myself.

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I'm honored to be the current President of the SNHU Psychology club. I was also an active member of the Psychology club as an undergraduate student. I've also been an active member of the National Society of Leadership and Success since 2016 and this lifelong membership was transferred to the SNHU online chapter.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

As a student, my challenge comes from being a mother and full-time employee. Although I try to make time for my wonderful and respectful sons, it's sometimes difficult when I have to choose completing assignments over bonding with them. Nonetheless, I'm still very much engaged in their lives and remind myself that college won't last forever. In dealing with this challenge, I remain optimistic and keep focused on the end goal.  

What are you proudest of?

My proudest moments come from seeing my children succeed in the different aspects of their lives, such as academics and extra-curricular activities. My sons are both honor roll recipients. This informs me that I'm doing a great job as their mother and I should continue doing what I've been doing. I'm proud to be their role model and that they admire me. I couldn't be more proud of my children and all their accomplishments as well as myself for the work I do in shaping them to be decent men of society.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I one day hope to become a scholarship donor, so I can give back to students with similar experiences and like minds. I also want to connect with other SNHU alumni as a way to stay involved as a graduate. 

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