Her Story
About Tatianna
Tatianna Duperier is a doctoral student in the Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies program at Howard University. Prior to pursuing her doctorate, she worked as an academic advisor at Florida State University for approximately three years while completing her master's degree there. She also earned her bachelor's degree from Florida State University. Her passion for higher education was shaped by her undergraduate experiences in student development and outreach, as well as her time as an advisor, leading her to apply to doctoral programs. She has been in the field professionally since 2022. Duperier is a member of the Association for the Study of Higher Education and NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. She was awarded the 2025 Rising Star inaugural award from the Florida State Black Alumni Chapter, nominated by peers, mentors, and students. She attributes her success to her family and mentors who have guided and supported her throughout her journey.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tatianna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family and mentors. They have definitely pushed me and guided me and just helped me on this path I'm on, for sure. I don't think I could have done it without them.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If she wants to get into higher ed, put herself out there and try a little bit of everything and figure out what you like and what you don't like. And don't be afraid to say no to certain opportunities if they don't align with your goals. And at the end of the day, nobody has been here before. Don't allow yourself to be intimidated, so if you are a little bit scared about jumping headfirst into the field, I would just say do it scared. Because it all works out in the end.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge has been learning how to navigate the space as a first gen college graduate. Once you're first gen even outside of college you're first gen in a lot of different spaces so just learning how to navigate professional life or pursuing a terminal degree without anybody in my immediate family that has also obtained any type of schooling, having to constantly outsource and figure stuff out on my own has been a little bit challenging at times.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Transparency, having a hard working work ethic, kindness overall, and a sense of optimism.
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