Student Highlight: Jada O'Connor
Meet Jada O’Connor, a fourth-year accountancy major. Jada is a talented and hardworking student who aspires to use her degree as a foundation for a future career as a corporate or tax lawyer. She dedicates her time to various organizations at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), participating in clubs and outreach programs. Her influence at CSULB even reached beyond campus when she competed for the title of Miss Southern California.
Jada chose CSULB because she admired its strong academic programs. She was captivated by The Beach’s welcoming environment and caring community. Today, Jada is involved in campus life through organizations such as the Black Business Student Association, corporate Mentoring Program, and Junior Mentoring Program, which is under the Student Center for Professional Development. These clubs have helped her build both social and professional networks.
Within BBSA, Jada first served as Fundraising Director, where she reached out to businesses to collaborate on fundraisers for those in need. Currently, she holds the position of Treasurer, where she manages finances. This position aids her in advancing her skills for her major. The Black Business Student Association has been an important outlet for Jada to foster relationships within CSULB’s Black community.
Jada draws motivation from her mother, who inspires her academically and personally. Her mother’s unwavering love and support has guided Jada through every milestone. Something that Jada’s mother says that resonates with her is “don't let anyone convince you that you are not beautiful, smart, and accomplished." Jada also values her mentors, Monique Historica and Larry Yee, whom she met through CMP and JMP. They encourage her to recognize her accomplishments and continue developing professional skills, while her mother plays a key role in shaping her character.
One of Jada’s proudest achievements is the resilience she has built as an accountancy major. She acknowledges how easy it is to feel discouraged while studying, but she has learned the importance of perseverance, even when results aren’t immediate. Her tenacity extends beyond academics; she works to ensure Black students are engaged on campus. As a transfer coordinator for Outreach, Jada connects directly with students of color, informing them about resources and guiding them through the transfer process to CSULB.
Jada’s decision to compete for Miss Southern California was inspired by Nancy 23’, whom she met in her ethical leadership course. With a passion for modeling, Jada was intrigued by the challenge of pageantry. After meeting several pageant participants, she felt it was a sign to join. She researched categories, interviewed with judges, and prepared outfits for different segments, aiming to impress at every stage. Throughout the process, her mother provided unwavering support, helping with the finishing touches on Jada’s looks.
Winning Miss Southern California empowered Jada to give back to her community. She plans to volunteer with nonprofits, believing that “what a person puts out comes back to them.” Her goal is to contribute to the Long Beach community while connecting with other titleholders. Through all her accomplishments, Jada has embraced what it means to be a Black Scholar: striving for excellence, uplifting others, and paving the way for future generations to find inspiration.
