He’s a first-generation college student who believes that everyone has a story to tell, he wants to create positive change, and he hopes to become part of Illinois politics someday.
An Illinois Promise student, the factors that drew Jarron to the University of Illinois include the U of I’s top-notch reputation, the extensive alumni and business networking opportunities available, and the proximity to his home on the West Side of Chicago. Initially persuaded by friends and family to obtain a business degree, he says “I realized that I'm not going to school for those around me, but for myself—I needed to do what was best for me.”
He made a decision to change his major after taking an economics course during his first semester, and realizing that his passion wasn’t in business. He considered his natural proficiency in writing, his intense interest in the world around him, and the power in words and their ability to connect people. He switched his major to news/editorial journalism in the Department of Journalism, which is part of the College of Media. Jarron also discovered a research interest in political writing, and media bias and perceptions. “It was one of the best decisions of my life, and I've used the skills learned in the journalism curriculum in most aspects of my academic and social life.”
Jarron has immersed himself in the wide-ranging learning, professional development, and leadership opportunities offered by Illinois. He explains: “I can't begin to count the experiences I've gained at the U of I. I've done everything from reporting for the Daily Illini, to serving as a roundtable editor for the Griot Literary Magazine, to rallying in Champaign-Urbana protests and festivals, to studying abroad in the Dominican Republic. I've met and become lifelong friends with a variety of students from a countless number of different backgrounds.” Jarron has also become an accomplished public speaker, and has presented at several student events as well as events featuring the chancellor and professors.
As the president of the University of Illinois Chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists, he’s worked hard to promote diversity in the field, both domestically and abroad. One of the things that he most appreciates is the internships that he’s had: “I've interned for McGraw-Hill during every break since I began, including summers, Thanksgiving, winter, spring break, and occasionally any three day weekend where classes were cancelled! My manager, Editorial Director Mitch Rosin, and Executive Vice President of Applied Career and College Readiness, Jeff Livingston, have been a blessing in making sure that I’m able to provide for myself financially, as well giving me a chance to gain valuable work experience.”
Jarron is a first-generation college student and his family has assisted him in every way possible. Still, he says “The scholarships that I received helped me in a variety of ways, including being able to succeed academically while staying afloat financially. I’ve received the Jesse Jackson Fellows Scholarship, the Charles G. Sotir Journalism Scholarship Award, an Illinois Promise Scholarship, the TCF Bank I-Promise Scholarship, and a few private awards. For all those who had faith in me—including my family and all the donors, many of whom have never met me—they’ve given me a chance to focus on academics over finances, and I humbly appreciate them all.”
What’s next for Jarron? After earning a degree in his current program, he plans to continue research as a graduate student, working with Professor Christopher Benson. “I've been mentored by so many great professors such as Christopher Benson, Alexis Tate, Leon Dash, Jennifer Follis, William Berry, Louis Liebovich, Lynn Holly, Rich Martin, and a nearly endless list of others. I wouldn't take the experiences I've gained here back for ANYTHING!”
