Honor Society® member
Natasha James
ELA Educator-High School at SAFE Achieve Academy-FullBloom/CPS
- Master of Arts Counseling
- Class of 2027
- CHICAGO, IL
Member since May 2025
About
Reflecting on my journey, it's clear I'm all about growing and learning, both personally and professionally. I'm currently deep into my Master of Arts in Counseling program at Governor State University, and keeping a 4.0 GPA while juggling everything is something I'm really proud of. It’s been an honor to be part of the Gamma Sigma Upsilon Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, too. My background as an educator, especially working with inner-city students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, has heavily influenced my path. I’ve been leading the charge on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), seeing firsthand how crucial it is to equip young people with the tools to understand and manage their emotions, identify triggers, and just navigate the world in a healthy way. Integrating SEL into the curriculum and creating calm, safe spaces for kids feels like vital work.
Education
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Governor State University
Master of Arts Counseling Specialization: Marriage Family & Couples
2025 – Present
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Ashford University
Masters of Arts in Teaching
2012 – 2013
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Central State University
Master of Science in Early Childhood Education
2008 – 2011
Honors and awards
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Gamma Sigma Upsilon Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society (CSI)
A professional counseling honor society that promotes academic and professional excellence within the counseling profession.
Goals and interests
- Career goal
License Marriage Family & Couples Therapist
- Graduate school interests
Counseling Program
- Outside the classroom
Listening to Jazz: Especially the classics like Miles Davis and John Coltrane.
SEL Journaling: Taking time for self-reflection and emotional processing.
Binge-Watching Shows: Getting lost in a great series.
Reading: Diving into books for learning and leisure.
Wellness: Focusing on overall well-being, mind and body.
Traveling: Exploring new places and cultures.
Podcasting: Creating or listening to engaging audio content.
Shopping: Enjoying retail therapy.
Cooking Fusion Foods: Experimenting with diverse culinary styles.
Spending Time with Family and Friends: Especially enjoying a good brunch together.
Experience
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ELA Educator-High School
SAFE Achieve Academy-FullBloom/CPS
Mar 2025 – Present
Languages
- English (US) Advanced
Additional information
Organizations
