<p><span class="p-body">Raised between Harlem and the Bronx, Davon Harris' tenacity and resilience is a reflection of the city he calls home. With interests that span from developing companies to furthering mental health initiatives, Harris has always been driven by a desire to make a difference in the world. His initial passion for psychology eventually led him to a new path—one that would allow him to combine his love for law and policy with his dedication to creating sustainable, affordable housing.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Since graduating from the NYU SPS Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies (DAUS) in 2019, Harris has been busy continuing his education and beginning his career. We were thrilled to catch up with him and learn more about what he has accomplished since then.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Attending NYU had always been a childhood dream for Harris, but life had initially taken him down a different path. After overcoming significant personal challenges and earning a GED, Harris decided to pursue his education further, starting at LaGuardia Community College. At 28, he took a chance and applied to NYU, &quot;fully aware that it might be a long shot,&quot; he says.&nbsp; Being accepted was a deeply meaningful moment for Harris.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Although his initial goal was to become a psychologist, Harris eventually realized that the work was becoming too personal and decided to pivot to a career in law. His time at NYU laid the foundation for his future success, despite the challenges of being an older student and balancing work with his studies.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Today, Harris is a recent graduate of Brooklyn Law School, preparing to start his career as an associate at Smith, Buss &amp; Jacobs in real estate law. Though he has overcome challenges along the way, he has also found great success, including the founding of his startup, <a href="https://happiroom.com/" title="Happiroom">Happiroom</a>. This mental health tech platform, inspired by his own struggles as a student, aims to create supportive communities for challenged students. &nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">While Harris's career path has taken some unexpected turns, he is proud of his accomplishments and remains committed to his new goal of developing sustainable affordable housing initiatives that empower New Yorkers to remain in their homes amidst gentrification.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Looking back, Harris emphasizes the importance of networking—something he feels he missed out on due to his busy schedule as a working student. He encourages current and future NYU SPS students to take full advantage of the networking opportunities and resources available to them. &quot;Building relationships now can open doors and create invaluable opportunities for your future,&quot; he advises.<span class="p-body"></span></span></p> <p><span class="p-body">As Harris prepares for his career in real estate law to take flight, he remains focused on his long-term goal of creating housing solutions that balance economic viability with social responsibility. He is committed to helping housing developments achieve profitability while preserving the cultural identities of communities and ensuring that low-income individuals are not displaced. With his unique background and unwavering determination, Harris is poised to make a significant impact in his field.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For aspiring lawyers, educators, social workers, and beyond, pursuing a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ba-in-social-sciences.html" title="Bachelor's in Social Sciences">BA in Social Sciences</a> at the NYU SPS Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies is a powerful first step to a fulfilling career.</span></p>