Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Major: Psychology
Future Plans: Continue education in psychology with a master's program

Jai Smith chose the University of Illinois Springfield because of the affordability. Smith is a InQUEERy Peer Educator, member of the Men of Color Initiative, the Women of Color Initiative, the Black Student Union and the African Student Association. Smith also works as a childcare aid for the Cox Children Center. When asked what Smith likes most about UIS, Smith said the community. “It's a small population that has small close-knit communities that stand together,” Smith said. Following graduation from UIS, Smith plans on pursuing a master’s degree with psychology. 

Leadership is lived at UIS. Every Day.