The transformative role of mentorship
SPCS Student Focus
Shaniya Bond is an undergraduate student at the School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCS) where she is earning a Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies (BSPS) in IT Management. Bond’s initial foray into higher education began with nursing at Radford University, but after a year and amid the pressures of the pandemic and personal loss, she made the difficult decision to step away. Bond recalibrated her focus and enrolled at Reynolds Community College. While there, she thrived academically, earning an associate of applied science in information systems technology and a career certificate in cloud computing.
Throughout her academic journey, mentorship played a transformative role. Bond credits Prof. Daryl Jackson, C’16, with providing the impetus to consider UR. Jackson, an experienced IT professional and her mentor at Reynolds, not only recognized Bond’s potential but also actively encouraged her to aim higher. Jackson also attended community college before completing his degree at UR SPCS. Recognizing her potential, he shared his own experiences, convinced that UR SPCS could be the key to advancing her career.
Focus on today. It’s easy to get lost in fear or self-doubt, but if you take even the smallest step forward each day, you’ll find yourself closer to your goal. And if you’re lucky, you’ll meet mentors who will remind you of your potential, just like I did.
Inspired by his confidence in her abilities, Bond took the leap to enroll at SPCS. Jackson’s mentorship extends beyond academics. He has helped Bond see the larger picture, guiding her through challenges and instilling in her the belief that obstacles could be stepping stones rather than roadblocks. “He’s shown me that with resilience and a strong support system, the possibilities are endless,” Shaniya says of her mentor.
In the fall of 2024, Bond embarked on the next phase of her academic journey, beginning her studies at UR SPCS toward a bachelor’s degree in IT management. This new chapter is full of promise but also brings its own set of challenges—juggling the demands of coursework, employment, and personal responsibilities requires expert time management skills. Bond is rising to the challenge, adopting a mindset that values small, daily progress. Balancing self-care with her academic and professional commitments, she is learning to prioritize and focus on what truly matters.
As Bond begins this new chapter at SPCS, she is already envisioning her future. Her goals for the years ahead are both ambitious and grounded. She dreams of a fulfilling IT career within the government sector, where she can apply her cloud computing expertise and management skills to make a meaningful impact. Ever the student, she is committed to continuous learning, aiming for roles that will challenge her and allow her to give back to the tech community.
When asked what advice she would offer someone hesitant about returning to school, Bond’s message is simple but powerful. “Focus on today. It’s easy to get lost in fear or self-doubt, but if you take even the smallest step forward each day, you’ll find yourself closer to your goal,” she shared. “Growth often comes from discomfort, so don’t shy away from challenges. And if you’re lucky, you’ll meet mentors who will remind you of your potential, just like I did.”
Bond is lucky enough to continue to have her mentor Jackson continue to pour in to her life as one of her professors at the School of Professional and Continuing Studies. Shaniya’s story is a testament to the strength found in perseverance and the profound impact of mentorship.