Nikkiema Harris
Nikkiema Harris
Class Year
’24
Hometown
Zion, Ilinois
Major(s)
English, Creative Writing Emphasis
Minor(s)
Religion
At Carthage, Nikkiema Harris ’24 was able to form relationships with new people, build a sense of community, and gain work experience as a marketing writer. These opportunities gave her confidence to self-publish two books: “Holy Footprints: Her Chemotherapy Journey: Visions 1 & 2” and “What She Portrays: Vol. 1: A Journey through Emotional Abuse, Losing Sight of Your Faith, Relationship Issues, Self-Love, and Much More.”
“I know my eight-year-old self would be very proud of me, considering she has always had difficulty putting herself out there,” says Nikkiema. “At a young age, I always knew I wanted to be a writer. But I didn’t know how open I would be to discoveries and new opportunities.”
Career goal
“After I graduate from Carthage in May 2024, I plan to pursue a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA.”
How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?
“My relationships with faculty have helped me develop interpersonal and professional skills, perform well in my classes, build relationships with others (including those who differ), and foster a sense of community.”
Favorite class
“So far, my favorite class at Carthage has been Introduction to Sociology with Professor Katherine Hilson. While taking that course, I cultivated multiple perspectives through a cultural and social lens, changing my perspectives on how I view the world and its people. Also, I learned about the numerous ways sociology helps us understand how culture influences and structures language and our social relationships with others.”
Campus involvement
“Due to my busy school and work schedules, I am only a part of one on-campus organization, which is Queer Students of Color.”
Toughest class
“So far, the most challenging class I’ve taken at Carthage has been Psychological Science. I took that course during my first year of college and had difficulty understanding the class material.”
Internships or on-campus employment
“I am a box office assistant, event staff member, and marketing writer for the Office of Visual and Performing Arts. As a box office assistant, I assist Carthage alumni, faculty, staff, and students via phone, email, or in person. I also sell tickets for upcoming events, as well as monitor transactions. As an event staff member, I set up and strike equipment from musical practices, recitals, and concerts. I also usher at on-campus events. Lastly, as a marketing writer, I write press releases for upcoming events, significantly contributing to one of two of my aspiring professions as an author.”
Opportunities at Carthage
“In Feb. 2022, I was given the opportunity to be a Wiggan-Kenniebrew mentor and a part of the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success.”
Scholarships
“I have been awarded numerous scholarships throughout my years at Carthage. Receiving the Wiggan-Kenniewbrew Scholarship and the Wilson Family Scholarship has helped me further my education.”
Favorite moments and memories at Carthage
“Some of my favorite Carthage moments and memories include the time I attended Summerfest in fall 2021, was offered to be a student worker for the Office the Visual and Performing Arts, and formed relationships with other English majors.”
Favorite spot on campus
“My favorite spot on campus is Starbucks.”
Biggest surprise so far
“My biggest surprise so far has been being featured on The Bridge, considering I have always had difficulty putting myself out there due to how introverted I am.”
Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?
“Other students should consider the English major with a creative writing emphasis because of the outstanding faculty and staff in the English Department. Literature also helps us to understand the societal and cultural aspects of life through plays, poetry, and short novels.”
Why Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because it has a creative writing program, which I heavily researched when applying to colleges and universities.”