Akiya Maston ’99
Tell us a little about yourself!
I’m Akiya Maston, a K–8 school principal, award-winning author, and Adolescent Development Specialist with more than 22 years of hands-on experience guiding young people through their most transformative years. My journey began at the University of Central Florida (Class of ’99), where I earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology, my Master’s in Human Resources at Barry University, and later building on that foundation with an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership at Liberty University. Over the past two decades, having worked closely with thousands of middle schoolers and their families, I recognized a vital need: a stronger bridge between the home and the classroom. That vision led me to found Girls Pursuing Success (GPS). Through my award-winning books—such as The Wonder Years of Middle School and The Sleepover That Went Oh, So Terribly Wrong! I turn the chaotic, complex adolescent experience into relatable lessons and practical roadmaps. My latest release, The GPS Code, is an intense, 8-module journey designed to help middle school girls unlock deep self-worth, navigate drama, and step into unshakeable confidence. It is my highest honor to champion young women as they discover who they are and learn to truly thrive.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
My passion for writing was sparked in middle school. I still remember drafting short stories at home and the quiet thrill when my teacher was generous enough to read them aloud to my classmates whenever we had a free moment.
What’s your writing process? What inspires your writing?
My creative process begins on the front lines of education, where daily interactions with students reveal the real-world challenges adolescents face. I reflect deeply on these moments, turning those shared struggles into opportunities to guide, empower, and support them through my writing.
What was the biggest thing you learned during your time as a Knight that you apply to your life today?
My time at UCF taught me a fundamental leadership principle: step forward even when the path isn’t fully paved. In 1998, with zero stepping experience, I took a leap of faith and founded the UCF Step Team. What started with campus flyers and a first practice of just two students eventually grew into a powerhouse crew of 30, competing across the state of Florida. Embracing that risk at a young age instilled in me an enduring belief in decisive action. It proved that meaningful progress requires pushing past the fear of failure, and that active involvement creates the richest, most transformative experiences – not just in college, but in life itself.
What was a class or club at UCF that helped you grow as a writer?
Serving as 2nd Vice President of the African-American Student Union, I developed targeted promotional materials and outreach content to drive engagement for on-campus events.
Who are some of your favorite authors or books?
My bookshelf is defined by authors who inspire growth and transformation, including Mel Robbins, Eckhart Tolle, and Tomi Adeyemi. Among my favorite reads are Ask and It Is Given, The Let Them Theory, A New Earth, The Alchemist, and Jonathan Livingston Seagull.
If UCF had a time machine, what moment on campus would you go back to?
I’d travel straight back to game nights at my college apartment – just good, wholesome fun with incredible friends.
If your UCF experience were a meme, what would it be?
It would just be a picture of me tucked into bed by 9pm!
What are you currently working on right now?
I am currently developing a digital educational empowerment series through my business, Girls Pursuing Success. Designed as a 12-month membership program, it equips adolescent girls with monthly online modules focused on critical growth topics like building confidence, the importance of healthy friendships, resilience & courage, and leadership. Each month features interactive videos, reflective journal guides, and practical activities centered on that month’s theme.
Anything else you want to share?
I am always eager to partner with youth organizations and schools. My collaboration opportunities include keynotes, adolescent empowerment workshops, digital mentorship, and novel studies focused on girl empowerment.
