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Portrait of Saniyah Williams

Honor Society® member

Saniyah Williams

  • University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Psychology
  • Class of 2029
  • USA

Member since May 2026

About

I am a Black African American woman who grew up on the west side of Chicago, where opportunities often felt limited and life could be stressful and difficult. Despite that, I worked hard to create opportunities for myself with the constant support of my parents, who have been by my side every step of the way. Growing up in a family-oriented home shaped my values, my ambition, and the way I view success. My family taught me the importance of resilience, hard work, and staying grounded in who I am.
I have always believed in creating my own path and not expecting anything to be handed to me. I have worked extremely hard for everything I have accomplished and continue to push myself because I am determined to build the best future possible. My goal is not only to create a successful life for myself, but also to one day give my future children opportunities, stability, and the best life I can provide for them.
Growing up surrounded by violence also gave me perspective and taught me to look for the good in people and in my community, even in difficult circumstances. Those experiences shaped me into someone resilient, hopeful, and determined to rise above challenges while staying connected to where I come from.

Education

  • University of Illinois Chicago

    Psychology

    2025 – Present

Honors and awards

  • honor roll

    I have reserved honor roll all 12 years I was in school.

  • 104th general Assembly Illinois House of Representatives Certificate of Recognition

    To celebrate my academic success that reflects my dedication and hard work

  • national society of high school scholars

    I was in the NSHSS since my 2nd year of high school to represent my scholastic achievement.

  • 103rd general Assembly Illinois House of Representatives Certificate of Recognition

    To celebrate my academic success that reflects my dedication and hard work

  • National Honor Society of Secondary Schools

    This award was based on scholarship, leadership, character, and service.

  • Certificate of excellence (Black student Association for your academic achievement)

    I was presented this award alongside some of my classmates that represented the black students in our school that had good academic achievement

  • Certificate of achievement

    I got this my senior year by the principal to show appreciation and the good things that I did

  • P.R.O.W.L Award (panther recognition of outstanding willingness to lead)

    This award recognizes a student (freshman) that demonstrates outstanding character, leadership, and the inclusion of others. Portrays both strong leadership characteristics, as well as the willingness to engage in support others.

  • AP Statistics Student of the Month

    I received this award because I presented the most academic growth within that month

Goals and interests

Career goal

I intend to become a pediatric or clinical Psychiatrist.

Graduate school interests

I’m not sure but I will either stay in Chicago or go to New York.

Outside the classroom

I like to go shopping, watching TV, hang out with my friends, working, and cooking or baking things like pasta or making cookies.

Experience

  • Cashier/ Food prep

    McDonalds

    May 2022 – Dec 2025

Volunteering

  • Help people that come in and need assistance shopping or carrying anything

    Kendall County food pantry

    Aug 2021 – May 2025

Languages

  • English (US) Advanced
  • Spanish Beginner