- Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
- Avid Reader
- Exploring various forms of art, such as Hand-embroidery, Makeup-artistry, and Linoprinting, to nurture creativity and personal growth
Victoria Smith
DeKalb,IL
Summary
As a third-year undergraduate studying environmental policy at Northern Illinois University, I am deeply passionate about sustainability, social justice, and the power of policy to create real change. My academic journey has been enriched by hands-on research and leadership roles that have honed my analytical and communication skills. My experience includes two semesters of private research, a social media marketing and journalism role at the nonprofit Egyptian Theatre, academic coaching, and instructing a communications lab designed for students from underrepresented backgrounds. I'm driven by the belief that informed, thoughtful action can lead to a more just and sustainable future.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
Northern Illinois University
01.2025 - Current
- Analyzing how local governments use social media to promote sustainable behaviors, in collaboration with the Political Science and Environmental Studies faculty at NIU and SIU
- Organized weekly datasets in Excel, coding and categorizing 300-500 sustainability-focused tweets from local government agencies throughout Illinois and the Midwest.
- Analyzed results using analytical software and created reports.
Academic Coach
Northern Illinois University
01.2024 - Current
- Assessed student learning needs and provided relevant instruction to close knowledge gaps.
- I work closely with approximately 2–8 students weekly on class struggles, closely reviewing study materials and developing personalized action plans to offer targeted help.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback and support.
- Supported students in developing critical thinking skills and perseverance to persist with challenging tasks.
Research Assistant
Northern Illinois University
08.2024 - 12.2024
- My research focused on the Oslo Accords and its long-term impact on water access in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict
- I examined how resources like water access are weaponized in conflict zones, reinforcing existing power imbalances
Marketing Intern
Egyptian Theatre
08.2024 - 12.2024
- I conducted engaging interviews with community partners and event organizers to promote upcoming events at the Egyptian Theatre
- Collaborating with the marketing team, I contributed to the 95th Birthday Club campaign, designing Instagram posts and crafting celebratory content to highlight this milestone anniversary
- I learned how to frame interview questions and create targeted content tailored to specific audiences
- Prepared project presentations and reports to assist senior staff.
- Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.
CHANCE Lab Instructor
Northern Illinois University
08.2023 - 12.2023
- I worked with students in the CHANCE program (Counseling, Help, and Assistance Necessary for a College Education), specifically with the course COMs 100
- Instructing a lab period, I helped students in small groups work on their speeches and overall public speaking skills
- Maintained accurate program documentation with attendance, participation and incident reporting.
- Worked with program director to develop and implement successful lesson plans.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Policy and Law and Nonprofit and NGO studies
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, Illinois05.2026
Skills
- Research and analysis
- Sustainability advocacy
- Environmental sustainability
- Self-Directed Learning
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Social media content creation
- Self-directed learning
- Punctuality and work ethic
Awards
- Terry Butz Scholarship Recipient
- Woodstock Center Endowment Fund Recipient
- Fall 2022 First-Year Composition Essay Awards
Interests
Timeline
Research Assistant
Northern Illinois University
01.2025 - Current
Research Assistant
Northern Illinois University
08.2024 - 12.2024
Marketing Intern
Egyptian Theatre
08.2024 - 12.2024
Academic Coach
Northern Illinois University
01.2024 - Current
CHANCE Lab Instructor
Northern Illinois University
08.2023 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Policy and Law and Nonprofit and NGO studies
Northern Illinois University
Similar Profiles
Nicolas Gambino-GieselNicolas Gambino-Giesel
Biochemical Research Intern at Northern Illinois UniversityBiochemical Research Intern at Northern Illinois University
Chanel BandeleChanel Bandele
Transcript Evaluator at Northern Illinois UniversityTranscript Evaluator at Northern Illinois University
Elexa (Lex) StewartElexa (Lex) Stewart
Student Employee at Northern Illinois UniversityStudent Employee at Northern Illinois University