NORTHERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Meet Lucy Seitz, a cosmetology major from Newberry, Mich. We asked Lucy a few questions about her NMU experience so far:

Why did you decide to go to NMU?

Lucy: I decided to attend NMU because of the Cosmetology program that is offered here.  I also liked the fact that I could live on campus in a dorm and be able to attend different college events.

What is a cool interesting thing that you have done part is your major?

Lucy: Recently I have been making TikTok videos about what my Cosmetology class is like, sharing with the viewers what I do during the day. It’s been so much fun connecting with other people from all over the U.S. They ask questions in the comments about NMU and the program. People are excited to learn about this program in general but they are extremely excited to learn that it is offered at the university level where they too could enjoy college life - living in dorms, meeting great friends, and attending sporting events.

What are you involved in at the University and Outside of the University?

Lucy: Since being at Northern I have joined the NMU Cheer Team and I also workout at the PEIF.

Off campus, my friends and I will go to local stores, restaurants, or for a hike. We’re also trying out different seasonal sports that the community has to offer like skiing and ice skating.  

What does “be northern” mean to you?

Lucy: To me “be Northern” means be involved with the entire U.P college life experience! Choose Northern classes that help push you as a individual. Choose Northern activities that you can explore - be adventurous. Choose to be open to new people and friendships, they are here for the reason and you can learn so much from each other.

What are your plans after graduation?

Lucy: My hope is to have my own business, a salon that offers all types of hair, skin and nail services.  

I would like to live in a large ocean-side city where there is warm weather all the time, but I know “life” can throw some curveballs, so time will tell where my salon will be.  

Further advice about NMU, advice to current students?

Lucy: For students that are coming to the university for the first time, I would encourage them to get involved and meet other people. Find what personally interests them in studies and activities, and then give it 100%. I hope they would be their own person, follow their own path and find what brings them health and happiness.

3 years ago 2 notes#cheerleading #cosmetology #salon

Meet Megan Naglich, a ceramics senior from St. Clair Shores, Michigan. We asked Megan a few questions about her NMU experience so far:

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Megan: I decided to come to Northern because I love the surrounding area and that it allows me to spend as much time in the outdoors as possible. Also, when I came to Northern to tour the campus, it just felt like it was where I belonged.

What’s an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?

Megan: Through the Ceramics Collective, I helped out with Marquette Ending Hunger’s Empty Bowls fundraiser by going to Marquette’s alternative high school and helping the art classes make bowls that could later be used at the Empty Bowls fundraiser event. The event allows community members to purchase a bowl of soup to help raise money for organizations aimed at ending hunger and food insecurity. They also get to keep a handmade ceramic bowl afterward!     

What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?

Megan: I am the student supervisor for the Quad 2 desks on campus. It’s nice to be able to create a welcoming environment for students living on campus and to interact with people that I wouldn’t otherwise see too often!

Outside of school, what do you enjoy? 

Megan: I love doing anything outside pretty much! Hiking, hammocking, and swimming are some of my favorites. I also love creating art. I’ve painted for most of my life, so that is something I am usually doing in my free time.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Megan: To me, “be Northern” means being someone who looks to find value in everyone and everything around them. Every place and every person around here has a story, and part of being here is learning those stories and appreciating them.

What are your plans after graduation? 

Megan: I hope to eventually have my own ceramics studio to share my art with others, and to teach others how to create art, as well. Right after graduation, though, I’m not exactly sure what my next move will be. I figure whatever opportunities come my way will lead me to where I’m supposed to be.

Advice for current students?

Megan: Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. It can seem so scary to change your major, walk up to someone new and introduce yourself, or do anything that you think you could fail at, but the only way you can experience so many amazing things is if you take those risks. On top of that, pick a major that makes you happy. You’re the one who is going to be taking classes in your major for a few years, so make it something that excites you and that you look forward to learning more about.

Tell us your story.

Megan: When I decided to come to Northern, I didn’t know a single person here and I had only ever been in the UP for a few campus visits. I was obviously hoping that I would have a good few years up here, but I never would have thought how much this place would change my life. Every single person I’ve met and every experience I’ve had up here has had such an impact on who I am as a person today. I’ve learned so much about myself and what I want out of life by being here and appreciating the good times and growing from the bad ones. I don’t think if I had chosen any other school that I would be as happy as I am today. Even when I leave Marquette, it will always be somewhere that feels like home to me.

3 years ago 1 note#ceramics #senior #art and design
Meet Marin Hoffman, a political science major with a pre-law concentration from Harbor Springs, Michigan. We asked Marin a few questions about her NMU experience so far:
Why did you choose NMU?
Marin: I chose NMU for few reasons. For one, I met with...

Meet Marin Hoffman, a political science major with a pre-law concentration from Harbor Springs, Michigan. We asked Marin a few questions about her NMU experience so far: 

Why did you choose NMU?

Marin: I chose NMU for few reasons. For one, I met with Dr. Wilson during the Presidential Scholars Competition during my senior year of high school and he mentioned the program to my mom and me. From that moment, the 3+3 Legal Education Accelerated Program (LEAP) program with Michigan State University (MSU) was definitely a drawing factor to NMU for me. My top two schools were MSU and NMU so this was the perfect opportunity for me to experience both. 

Another main reason I chose NMU was the size and location of the school. I graduated from a small high school, in a small town, so I was nervous to move away to a big campus/city, such as East Lansing. Marquette was the perfect place because it allowed me to move into a bigger city with more of a small-town feel. I also love Marquette in general and being outdoors, skiing and adventuring. Lastly, I was also drawn to NMU because of the Honors Program opportunity. The Honors Program here allows students to have some flexibility in their studies making it possible for me to complete this in three years as well.

What’s an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?

Marin: The most influential and helpful thing I have done as part of my major would be my internship I completed this past summer in a small law firm in my hometown. I was able to do this internship for 6 credits so I not only was able to experience the daily life of a lawyer but it also helped me work towards my degree. Doing this at a small firm allowed me to experience many things I wouldn’t have been able to at a larger firm. I also learned to do many things first hand which has given me much more confidence going into law school and pursuing my goal of becoming a family and adoption lawyer.

How has NMU and LEAP prepared you for your future career?

Marin: NMU has prepared me for my future career in law by allowing me to work in close contact with many different professors with many different backgrounds in the law and political science field. I have taken two classes here at NMU with practicing lawyers in the area which has allowed me to talk with them and get a better understanding of the field I am entering. They have also given my classmates and me different tips for law school and starting your career.

It is hard to given an exact answer to how LEAP has helped me because I am only about halfway done with the program but so far, I would say it has taught me to plan ahead and work hard. Because it is an accelerated program, I have had to work through my requirements at NMU more quickly than most. To do this, I have been very diligent with my planning to make sure I complete everything I need to. I also have had to be on my toes, ready for anything life or school throws at me while still staying focused and working hard to complete my schooling in three years instead of four.

When do you start at MSU and what excites you the most?

Marin: I am beginning my journey at MSU Law School this coming fall of 2021. I am very excited about continuing my school and moving forward with my goals. After being accepted into the law school everything finally started to feel like it was falling into place and my hard work was paying off. Overall, I am very grateful for the opportunities that the NMU/MSU LEAP partnership has provided me.  

3 years ago 4 notes#political science #pre-law #sociology #MSU

Meet Jacquie Medina, an outdoor education professor and NMU alumni from Plainfield, Ill. We asked Jacquie a few questions about her NMU experience: 

Why did you decide to work at NMU? Why did you decide to live in Marquette?

Jacquie: I lived in Marquette as a student at NMU in the 1980’s and as an adjunct instructor in the 1990’s. I fell in love with Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape during my recruiting visit and throughout my undergraduate years. As an athlete, I gained a strong sense of pride for NMU, the community, and my teammates. As a student, I was mentored by excellent instructors, challenged to uphold high standards, and introduced to the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. These connections and foundations remained with me over the years. 

For much of my adult life, I taught outdoor education in the western United States, however, teaching outdoor education at NMU and in Marquette is the optimal location. We are surrounded by an outdoor classroom in which we can hike, bike, camp, climb, paddle, and ski within minutes of campus. The Marquette community and university culture support an active outdoor lifestyle. It was always one of my goals to return to NMU to teach and mentor students and to give back to the school, program, and community that supported my own personal and professional growth.

What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?

Jacquie: On campus now: Honors Board Committee Co-Chair, CNAS Faculty Affairs Committee, Sustainability Advisory Council, Presidential Scholar Interviews, Wildcat Weekend, NMU Rec Sports and NMU Sports fan.

Local involvement: Board Member for the Marquette Regional History Center; volunteer with local events including Hiawatha Music Festival, Fresh Coast Film Festival, Michigan Ice Fest, and Noquemanon Ski Race; attend Marquette arts and culture events; collect oral histories of people in the community; and advocate for experiential learning opportunities for ORLM students with local non-profit agencies and schools.

As an NMU student: I was a member of the women’s volleyball team for four years and co-captain my senior year. I worked for NMU Rec Sports in most positions available (lifeguard, building supervisor, outdoor rec center, camp counselor) and played many intramural sports. I was active in my residence hall (Spalding Hall/Misty Mountain floor!) and participated in homecoming games and Winterfest. I had a blast working one summer as an NMU Summer Orientation counselor, and one semester, I served as a student instructor in an outdoor recreation canoeing class.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy?

Jacquie: I enjoy spending time in nature exploring, paddling, hiking, and cross-country skiing. I enjoy working out, building furniture, creating and playing with various art mediums, spending time with family, pets, and friends; watching my son participate in sports and theater, cooking and eating ethnic foods, trying new microbrews, attending theater/music/dance performances, reading/journaling, and exploring sustainable living practices.

Advice for current students?

Jacquie: Meet people. Have a conversation. Talk to your professors. Open your mind to new ideas and ways of thinking and doing. Go outside. Get involved. Become a part of the local community. Believe in yourself. Be true to who you are and embrace your uniqueness. Others will learn and grow by knowing you.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Jacquie: To be kind, courageous, and playful. To go outside. To try new things. To be open to learning. To be part of something bigger than myself.

Why do you wear a mask? 

Jacquie: I wear a mask to protect my family, friends, community, and self. I wear it because it matters.

How have you been practicing social distancing?

Jacquie: Maintaining 6 feet or more between myself and others. Spending time outdoors. Allowing only people in our family and “bubble” into our home.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Jacquie: I have learned that I can adapt at a moment’s notice. This lesson has allowed me to face challenges with more confidence. COVID-19 has forced me to develop my online knowledge, skills, and abilities. Old ways of thinking and doing may not work in our current society. We must open our minds and hearts to change and new possibilities. It is more important than ever for us to be united as a society and people. I like to think the pandemic has fostered compassion and empathy among people. We must move beyond thinking, hoping and wanting, and start doing and speaking. As a family, we have learned to work, live, go to school, and play in our home. This has taken patience and compromise. We have become more aware of our individual and group needs and the importance and breadth of our overall health and wellbeing.

Tell me your story.

Jacquie: I always knew I wanted to go to college. As a first-generation college student, my parents didn’t quite understand my ambition, incessant inquiry, and desire to live in such a cold, remote area as Marquette, MI. My love for the outdoors drew me to NMU. The minute I saw Lake Superior in all her frozen glory, I knew I had to be here. Choosing NMU was a great decision! I was able to play hard, work hard, create lasting relationships, and gain a quality education. My classmates, teammates, mentors, and experiences at NMU laid the foundation for me to pursue my ambitions as a coach and outdoor educator. My NMU professors were significant in helping me to network professionally and were my biggest advocates for pursuing graduate and doctoral school. It is my hope that I am continuing the NMU legacy by inspiring my students, helping them find their passions, advocating for their ambitions, and fostering their stewardship for people and the natural environment. Go Wildcats!!

3 years ago 1 note

Meet Kim Rotundo, the newly retired Registrar, originally from Kingsford, Mich. Kim is also an alumni, graduating with her Bachelor’s in ‘92 and her Master’s in ‘95. We asked Kim a few questions about her NMU experience: 

Why did you decide to work at NMU? / Why did you decide to live in Marquette?  

Kim: I came to Marquette and NMU as a freshman. My intention was to stay here for two years, then transfer. I fell in love with both Marquette and NMU. The people here are what made the biggest difference to me. I felt like they cared about my success as a student and as a person and they helped me get connected, involved, and feel a part of the community.

What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?  

Kim: Within the university I’m involved in most things related to academic programs and policies and student success, such as the Committee for Undergraduate Programs and the Retention Committee. I’ve also been very involved in those type of efforts at the state level, working with leaders from other colleges and universities to share information, identify areas of concern, and improve communication and processes, especially related to transfer students.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy?  

Kim: Outside of work I enjoy hiking, kayaking, playing tennis and pickle ball, spending time with my family and friends, and reading.

Further comments on your NMU experience:  

Kim: NMU has been so good to me - from the time that I was a freshman through today.  I have continuously been provided with opportunities that were interesting, challenging, and helped me grow as a person and as a professional.

Advice for current students?  

Kim: Be intentional about your experience.  Don’t wait for things to happen or rely on others always reaching out to you.  Allow yourself to create a vision of who you want to be and what you want your experience to look like, then do the things you need to do for that to happen, even if it’s uncomfortable at first.  Allow room for that vision to evolve over time.  Ask questions.  Try new things.  Explore.  Experience.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?  

Kim: I have always felt like I was part of a community here.  In turn, it’s important to me to contribute to this community and to do my part to preserve what is special about it. That means everything from saying hello to people as I pass them on the sidewalk, whether I know them or not, to doing whatever I can to help others grow and be successful.

Why do you wear a mask?  

Kim: To do my part to protect all of us and to show my respect to others.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?  

Kim: I’m at home a lot more.  I only socialize outside and with very few people. I have reconnected with some people I’ve lost touch with over the years, which has been a positive outcome of this situation.

Tell us your story.  

Kim: When I came to Marquette and NMU as a freshman in college, I never expected I would retire from here. I was a shy 18-year-old who was presented with opportunity after opportunity. The campus and the area are beautiful, but it is the people that make NMU truly special. I feel fortunate for the experiences I’ve had here, the friendships I’ve made, and the community I’ve been embraced by. NMU will always be an important part of who I am.

3 years ago 1 note#higher ed #registrar #resident adviser #housing

Meet Liz Patrykus, an elementary education major, reading and science minor and recent graduate from Waupun, Wisc. Liz is a Superior Edge graduate as well. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience:

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Liz: During my first tour of campus, it immediately felt like home. Everyone was so welcoming and willing to help out. 

What are you involved with on campus?

Liz: I worked for the Rec Sports at the Wildcat Fit Zone and the PEIF. I also was involved in SLFP, Superior Edge, Chi Alpha, and Young Life. 

Of your activities on- or off-campus (residence life, student orgs, internships, etc.), what has been the most rewarding and why?

Liz: I loved spending time with friends at the lake or local coffee shops. 

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Liz: To me be Northern means you should embrace every opportunity that comes your way and take chances. Within the student body at NMU you’ll find a wide variety of hobbies represent, who knows what new things you may end up liking. 

What are your hopes or plans after graduation? 

Liz: I plan to start a career as a teacher in Wisconsin. 

Further comments about your NMU experience?

Liz: It’s been a fantastic 4.5 years that have helped me grow as a person in many ways.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Liz: I had to complete my student teaching 100% online. It was something I never imagined doing but I’m so thankful for the unique opportunity. I learned so many new skills that I may have otherwise missed out on.

3 years ago#SLFP #Superior Edge #education #future teacher #mask quote
Meet Anne Huston, a nursing major and recent graduate from Gobles, Mich. Anne also completed the Superior Edge. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience so far:
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
Anne: I’ve always loved the UP, and when...

Meet Anne Huston, a nursing major and recent graduate from Gobles, Mich. Anne also completed the Superior Edge. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience so far: 

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Anne: I’ve always loved the UP, and when I visited campus for the first time, I felt like the community was very involved with and supportive of the university. Marquette felt like a place where I could grow into myself.

What’s an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?  

Anne: Nursing is obviously a pretty hands-on major in terms of learning, and our program has plenty of unique ways to get that experience. We have pretty awesome simulation technology and really talented people that make those sims possible. The department also has relationships with the local hospital, UPHS, and a ton of different community agencies that offer one-of-a-kind opportunities for students. I was able to work with a specialty genetics team from the University of Michigan during my pediatrics clinic, and that experience has influenced my future plans pretty considerably.

What are you involved with on campus?

Anne: During my time at NMU, I got involved with Superior Edge, the Student Leader Fellowship Program, the Student Nurses Association, and the Health Promotion Society.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy?   

Anne: I went from really not being outdoorsy to being a fairly stereotypical Yooper over the three years I’ve been here. I love hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, swimming, you name it. I also like reading, and like any other college student, I would be lost without a Netflix subscription. Since quarantine, I’ve also been baking… a lot.    

Of your activities on- or off-campus (residence life, student orgs, internships, etc.), what has been the most rewarding and why?

Anne: Through the Student Leader Fellowship Program, I had the chance to complete a community service internship with a local nonprofit, Trace Holistic. The organization has created opportunities for registered nurses in the UP to undergo special training to be certified to work with survivors of sexual assault. I’ve been involved with sexual assault advocacy for the past few years, and a lot of the work of it is played out socio-politically, through conversations and education. Our ability to create changes in our local community on top of that education by partnering with other local agencies, creating a physical location to treat survivors, and hiring nurses made it feel even more significant and special. 

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Anne: To “be Northern” is to be adventurous. Explore the outdoors! Explore your interests! Explore your identity! The culture here pushes that curiosity and is supportive of wherever it takes you.

What are your hopes or plans after graduation? 

Anne: I’ll be working as a cardiac RN here at UPHS-Marquette and studying for my boards. Grad school is somewhere on the horizon, but I’m trying not to think about that right now!

Why do you wear a mask?

Anne: I wear a mask to protect myself, my loved ones, and my community, and out of respect for the sacrifices, front-line workers have been making through the course of this pandemic.

How have you been practicing social distancing?

Anne: I have a pretty tight quarantine bubble. While it’s certainly no replacement for the real thing, I like Face Timing friends and family that I haven’t been able to see in person.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Anne: Going into a new career as a nurse during a pandemic has been, uh, stressful, to put it lightly.  I’ve had to really make a point to learn how to care best for my own emotional, spiritual, and mental health. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness has really helped. This time has made me extra appreciative of little things, like hugs and smiles, and of big things, like justice and community.

3 years ago#nursing #superior edge #SLFP #alumni #maskquote
Meet Abbigail Atkins, a computer art major, computer science minor and recent graduate from Bay City, Mich. Abbigail has also completed the Real World and Leadership Edges in the Superior Edge program. We asked Abbigail a few questions about her NMU...

Meet Abbigail Atkins, a computer art major, computer science minor and recent graduate from Bay City, Mich. Abbigail has also completed the Real World and Leadership Edges in the Superior Edge program. We asked Abbigail a few questions about her NMU experience: 

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Abbigail: I decided to tour NMU and I have been in love with the campus and town ever since.

What’s an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?

Abbigail: I was able to create code to form shapes and lines in real time and create art by changing the coding parameters.

What are you involved with on campus?

Abbigail: Student Leader Fellowship Program, Mortar Board Telion Chapter, Worked at NMU Helpdesk as a Helpdesk Assistant.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy?

Abbigail: I like to read books, play video games with friends, and discover new music.

Of your activities on- or off-campus (residence life, student organizations, internships, etc.), what has been the most rewarding and why?

Abbigail: Creating my internship with the Marquette Artist Collective. I was able to create a 100-hour internship connecting art and community service within the Marquette community. I was able to run events with members of the community and create my own event for the Gallery of the Marquette Artist Collective.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Abbigail: It means to be adventurous and to be bold in everything you do.

What are your hopes or plans after graduation? 

Abbigail: I am starting a job at Amazon as an Area Manager.

Further comments about your NMU experience?

Abbigail: I loved my three and a half years spent at Northern. I was able to grow into a wonderful adult and was able to participate in so many cool opportunities.

Why do you wear a mask?

Abbigail: I wear a mask because I care about others.

How have you been practicing social distancing?

Abbigail: I try to only hang out with the same group of people and avoid crowded areas.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Abbigail: It really put a halt to my life and at first, it felt like everything was spiraling out of control in my life. I was able to ground myself by learning German on Duolingo every day, which is something I’ve wanted to do, but have never gotten the chance.

3 years ago#computer art #computer science #superior edge #SLFP

Meet Sabrina Kaminski, a psychology major, human behavior minor from Rochester, Mich. Sabrina is a Superior Edge graduate as well. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience:

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Sabrina: I wanted to be far from home so I wasn’t tempted to go home all the time and to go somewhere I didn’t know many people. Once I toured Northern, I knew right away that this was the perfect fit for me especially because of MQT and all it has to offer.

What are you involved with on campus?

Sabrina: Ripple Effect, the housing and residence life staff development team, and I am an RA.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy?

Sabrina: As cliché as it may sound but being outside. Just last winter, I learned how to ski and made the winters much more enjoyable being able to find a niche I really enjoy. I also really love going for walks and hikes all around MQT. I especially love summer and spending my days at the beach.

Of your activities on- or off-campus, what has been the most rewarding and why?

Sabrina: Being an RA has been by far the most rewarding. I have grown in ways I could have never imagined but most importantly I hope I made an impact on others lives. I always put a fourth effort in maintaining an empathetic energy by being socially aware of diversities such as gender, sexual orientation, disabilities, race, and socioeconomic status, etc.

What are your hopes or plans after graduation? 

Sabrina: I plan on taking the winter semester off and apply for jobs as a resident director. I hope by next fall I will be working as a resident director at some university and work towards my master’s degree in student affairs.

Why do you wear a mask?

Sabrina: I wear a mask not only for myself but most importantly I wear it for others. I, of course, don’t want to get COVID but in all honesty, I’m healthy and I would probably be fine. I wear a mask to protect those that aren’t as fortunate that are at higher risks.

How have you been practicing social distancing?

Sabrina: Throughout the semester, when I would hang out with friends I would encourage the idea of going outside and doing something where we don’t feel like we have to be close to one another. Now that I’m home I don’t really go and do much. At school, I was living by myself so I wasn’t too worried because the only time I had my mask off was when I was by myself in my room. But now that I’m home my family and I are trying to make conscientious efforts to keep each other safe and healthy.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Sabrina: It has made me realize how much we took for granted in prior day-to-day life. Simple things like going to my grandparent’s house, no mask, going to the movies, holidays with extended family. A year ago I didn’t think much about any of those things and now I think back to how good we had it without even knowing.

3 years ago#mask quote #psychology #alumni #resident advisor #housing and residence life

Meet Kia Richmond, the December 2020 commencement student-selected faculty speaker. Kia is a professor of English at NMU, directs the English Education program and supervises student teachers in Michigan and Wisconsin. Her research focuses on teacher-student relationships, psychology and young adult literature, and English Education pedagogy. Her publications have appeared in English Education, Journal of Literacy and Language Education, The ALAN Review, Language Arts Journal of Michigan, and Composition Studies. Her latest book, Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature: Exploring Real Struggles through Fictional Characters, was published by ABC-CLIO/Libraries Unlimited in 2019.  

Kia: I am currently in my 20th year as a faculty member at Northern Michigan University, and I could not imagine a better way to celebrate than to serve as the student-selected faculty speaker for the December 2020 commencement ceremony. What an honor!

My approach to teaching is grounded in Carl Rogers’ principles of communication in helping relationships – congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding. According to Rogers, we are always in the process of becoming, and with the assistance of a helping relationship, we can successfully become who we can be. My goal in teaching every class is to develop positive relationships with students to help them in their processes of becoming.

I try to emphasize care before content, which I hope has been evident to students in my classes in English Education, young adult literature, and the humanities. In addition, I believe that we need the joy to balance out the serious subjects of study we take up in the English classroom. Therefore, I make sure each class session includes an opportunity for us to laugh together while learning about literature, writing, or how to teach English Language Arts.

(I am also known to have a love of pandas). :)

3 years ago#professor #commencement #speaker #faculty
12/10
Meet Murong Miao, a College of Business faculty member. We asked Murong a few questions about her NMU experience:
What are your academic areas of interest?
Murong: I am passionate about teaching. I have been an instructor in China, and...

12/10

Meet Murong Miao, a College of Business faculty member. We asked Murong a few questions about her NMU experience: 

What are your academic areas of interest?

Murong: I am passionate about teaching. I have been an instructor in China, and currently, I really enjoy teaching in the US. I have taught Consumer Behavior and Introduction to Marketing.  From the courses I have taught, I have learned how to communicate with students. I believe students learn best when they feel that I value their opinion. I encourage students to express their opinions. And I ty to respond to students’ emails as soon as possible.

Currently, I am pursuing research in consumer behavior. Specifically, my research is primarily motivated by the intersection between consumer psychology and marketing. My dissertation focuses on consumer envy. I study consumer envy in different contexts and from diverse angles.

What is something special you do as part of your curriculum?

Murong: I usually customize the powerpoint to help me covey the concepts as clear as possible. I would like to incorporate some examples when I teach theories.

What do you like about working at Northern?

Murong: I really enjoy working at Northern. It is really a great community. All the faculties are friendly and welcoming. Students here are polite and study hard. Especially, Marquette is a beautiful town and I really enjoy the summer and fall here.

What advice do you have for students?

Murong: I hope my students can study hard. Think about their future plan as early as they can. Therefore, they can manage their courses and plan for internship opportunities.

What are you passionate about? (professionally and/or personally)

Murong: Professionally, I enjoy doing research. I hope to collaborate with other faculties to explore more interesting research topics. Personally, I like reading books, watching tv dramas, and traveling.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Murong: It means that I need to change my lifestyle a little bit. Get used to the weather and enjoy exercising outside.

3 years ago#faculty #professor #business #college of business
Meet Stacy Boyer-Davis, Ph.D.; Assistant Department Head for Accounting, CIS, Cyber Defense, Finance, and Risk Management; Assistant Professor of Accounting, College of Business; Extended Learning and Community Engagement (ELCE) Scholar, Global...

Meet Stacy Boyer-Davis, Ph.D.; Assistant Department Head for Accounting, CIS, Cyber Defense, Finance, and Risk Management; Assistant Professor of Accounting, College of Business; Extended Learning and Community Engagement (ELCE) Scholar, Global Campus; and MBA Director (2020-2021). 

Stacy: My father, John, always reminded me of the following (modified) version of the Theodore Roosevelt quote, “nothing in life worth doing should be easy.”  I share this same sentiment with my students today and add to it that, while achieving your educational goals and earning a degree requires a significant investment of time and effort and many sacrifices along the way, the achievement and lifelong rewards that stem from it, are absolutely worth it.  Be brave and follow your intellectual curiosities and dreams down the ‘yellow brick road’ to the rainbow of opportunities that a college degree can impart. Empower yourself and your future at Northern Michigan University.

3 years ago#mba #professor #department head #finance #cyber defense #risk management #faculty
Meet Amalea K. Vega, an alumni, Healthcare Consultant, and Alumni Association Board Member from Troy, Mich. We asked Amalea a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?
Amalea: My time at...

Meet Amalea K. Vega, an alumni, Healthcare Consultant, and Alumni Association Board Member from Troy, Mich. We asked Amalea a few questions about her NMU experience: 

Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?

Amalea: My time at NMU shaped the life I have today. I value all I learned, both in the classroom and the life lessons. The city of Marquette also has a special place in my heart. While my life had led me further away from Northern and from the state of Michigan, I am looking forward to reconnecting. I am most excited to give back to the institution who gave me so much and anticipate all the connections being a part of the board will offer.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy?

Amalea: I have two small children who keep me busy with swim lessons, soccer and family events. Personally, I enjoy working out, reading books, traveling and cooking.

Further comments on your NMU experience:

Amalea: As a part of the Swim and Dive Team, I have so many great moments, events, practices, etc., with my team that come to mind. The friends I talk to every day are ones I made while at Northern, which is a daily reminder of all NMU gave me. I chose to live in Colorado because I wanted an environment, lifestyle activity options and to meet others who like the same, all because I looked to replicate Marquette as much as possible! Memories that come to mind are spending time at Black Rocks, hiking Sugarloaf, riding bikes around Presque Isle and, of course, all the great food in Marquette!

Advice for current students?

Amalea: Enjoy it! It really does go by fast and your responsibilities change so quickly. Soak in all the experiences, the knowledge, the friendships and the community.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Amalea: This is a phrase I am hearing more now then I did when I was in Marquette. Hearing it now, I look at this as embodying all that Northern Michigan University stands for and carrying that to my current community and environment. It gives me the sense that I am and can always be connected to NMU and to Marquette; two places that hold a special place in my heart.

Why do you wear a mask?

Amalea: I wear a mask because science tells us it is the best way to keep myself and those around me safe from the spread of COVID-19.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Amalea: This pandemic has slowed my life down. It halted all my business travel (I would travel every other week) as well as forced my family to cancel vacations. We have been disconnected from extended family and friends yet are also so much more connected, in many ways. We look at all creative methods to reach out to those who are not close or in our ‘COVID-19 Bubble.’ We have written more letters, sent more text messages and used videos calls more often. While we are craving a hug from our family and excited for a family vacation, my family is grateful for our health and the time we often take advantage of to just be together.

3 years ago#mask quote #alumni #alumni board #alumni association #healthcare
Meet Morgan Dania Waller, an alumni, Financial Analyst, and Alumni Association Board Member from Chicago, Ill. We asked Morgan a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?
Morgan: I joined...

Meet Morgan Dania Waller, an alumni, Financial Analyst, and Alumni Association Board Member from Chicago, Ill. We asked Morgan a few questions about her NMU experience: 

Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?

Morgan: I joined NMU Alumni Association to serve, give back and stay connected with the university.

What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?

Morgan: Besides working as a Financial Analyst for S&P Global, I currently serve on numerous boards alongside NMU Alumni Association. I am the Corresponding Secretary for the Chicago Chapter of the National Black MBA Association and Chairman of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee for Thornton Fractional District #215 in Calumet City.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy?

Morgan: Outside of working, I enjoy hanging out with my sorority sisters who are members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. It’s always a great time when I am with my sisters.

Advice for current students?

Morgan: My advice to current students is to stay well and strong especially during these hard times that we are all facing with the pandemic. Don’t forget you are the future so what you do today only reflects the path you’re destined to have. A quote I heard Oprah say that resonated with me was the words from the late Dr. Marther Luther King Jr. “ Not everyone can be famous but, everyone can be great because greatness is determined by service.” -MLK

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Morgan: Being Northern to me means to be free and open and fearless. If you know Marquette, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit. With it’s beautiful mountain views, fresh water from Lake Superior and cold harsh winters, you have no choice other than to be free to explore, keep an open mind and be fearless in the face of the weather!

Why do you wear a mask

Morgan: I wear a mask to protect my mother and brother who are both diagnosed with Sickle Cell.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Morgan: Covid-19 has definitely taught me how to take better care of my health, and more importantly tap into mastering my other skills sets. This is the time to learn more about technology, governance, business and economics. In the midst of filling your brain with knowledge, be sure to balance your mental health. Nowadays, it’s just as important. Be sure to take breaks in between school and work and try to pick up an interesting hobby.

3 years ago#alumni #alumni association #financial analyst #mask quote

Meet Cassidy Downing, a biology-ecology major from Almont, Mich. We asked Cassidy a few questions about her NMU experience so far: 

Why did you decide to come to NMU?   

Cassidy: I chose NMU because I remembered all the times visiting my brother at Michigan Tech when I was in high school and knew I wanted to live in the U.P. at some point in my life, but I liked the lifestyle of Marquette a bit more and had heard of the success of the Biology Department here.

What’s an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?     

Cassidy: What to name first? I have branched out further socially and with my concentration than I ever thought I would here. I travelled the Monongahela National Forest last summer with the Evolutionary Biology Lab doing small mammal trapping that led to my trapping of a rare rat in the area that we are currently publishing a paper on. To have my name on a scientific publication would be a huge achievement for me, and it would be my first one. I also formed and am carrying out a study on Alaskan marten endoparasites (worms in the guts), and plan on publishing a paper on my findings as well.

What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus? 

Cassidy: I am a volunteer coder with the Conservation Data Lab through The Nature Conservancy, and am working on learning better coding skills to give usable data to projects that can help us look out for invasive plant species and wildfires in some areas out west. I also work in the Biology Department main office as a secretary, so come say hi! (with a mask on, please)

I also take advantage of my free time to take part in social changes on campus, and hope to make the most positive impacts possible- I believe it is up to everyone to leave their mark in a positive way and to be outspoken for those who can’t be, if possible.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy? 

Cassidy: I am a pretty avid runner and climber, with high hopes for both sports. I love the short drives to some pretty decent climbing areas around Marquette, as well as the access to beautiful spots to go trail running. Both sports give me lots of time to think and some quiet between work and classes. On the side I also do some illustrations (look out for my coloring book!) and enjoy yoga to stretch out sore muscles from climbing. I’m a huge fan of the local breweries and the food trucks that hang out near them, too.

What does “be Northern” mean to you?

Cassidy: I would say that the spirit of the student body at NMU is original, organic, and chill. There are big events that highlight green flags, sports stars and Wildcat Willy, but I don’t think that’s where the student body finds its pride. I think that the nights spent camping on national forest land, the social change that is currently challenging the foundations of old institutions, the grit of NMU students for making it through one of the school’s most difficult semesters, and the originality and quirkiness of students and staff make this place what it is. It is why Marquette is a tourist destination- there is originality, space, inventiveness, and natural beauty that makes Marquette, and NMU, truly wonderful. None of these things you can find in the bookstore with a logo on it.

What are your plans after graduation? 

Cassidy: My plans after graduating are to move to Wyoming to work with any environmental institution that will have me. I would love to (and have applied) to work as a horse packer, field technician for endangered species, or as a bum climber until options A or B become available.

Advice for current students?

Cassidy: It sounds dumb because you’ve heard it a million times, but follow your heart. It’s harder for some than others because of your financial or social dilemmas, but at any cost you should always do what makes you the happiest, even if you have to give up a lot or work really hard for it. It would be ignorant to claim that anything I’ve accomplished was in spite of my privilege, but those with privilege should always be seeking to lift those who do not up, and only together will we all be our best selves. I want to give words of wisdom to every NMU student, but for many I cannot because I do not have their life experiences. To anyone who would gain from hearing this though: your own happiness and self-worth should always come first, and the only expectations that dictate your life should be your own.

Why do you wear a mask?

Cassidy: I wear a mask because I understand that I am not the only one effected by the transmission of this virus and if I am not careful I could kill someone’s grandma. Or son. Or sibling. My own personal frustrations with wearing masks or the social issues caused by this crisis will not be solved by taking it out on others or their safety.

How have you been practicing social distancing?

Cassidy: I live with three other roommates, and we have had a “plus one” policy since March that we hold each other accountable for. That means at most, we would have eight people at our home, but to my knowledge we have not yet been good enough at planning to even make that happen. We each picked a close friend to be able to have over, and have not changed our “people” since the beginning of the pandemic. We also have tried mostly getting take-out rather than dining in, and are not going out to the bars or to parties.

How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?

Cassidy: The lifestyle the pandemic forced on all of us was not easy to adjust to, but a little while into it I realized that I could live much healthier without indulging in what I used to. I do not think, even after things return to “normal” that I would spend much time at bars or drinking, and I learned to cook a lot more healthy meals at home where I would normally just be microwaving macaroni and cheese. I started running a lot more and doing yoga to work through anxiety, and now these things are just habits that I am using as a tool to better myself. I learned to appreciate a small group more, and not to feel bad if I’m not constantly hanging out with people. I think overall my worldview grew, while my personal life got simpler, which I think is a very good thing.

Tell me your story.

Cassidy: Is the “grew up in a small Michigan town” thing overused? I grew up in a small town outside Detroit, and I think it was meant to be that as a little kid I thoroughly enjoyed being coated in mud and playing with creepy crawlies because there just happened to be an abundance of such right outside my home, 24/7. I grew up obsessed with horses, and was working in horse barns cleaning stalls in trade for lessons by the time I was in high school. 

After getting a two year degree from a local community college near Detroit, I followed a path down becoming a professional horseback rider and groom. I travelled the world doing this for several years and at times was homeless, and other times was very comfortable. I worked on teams that did nothing but muck stalls in Arizona heat all day to riding with Olympic hopefuls in Germany. I worked unbelievably hard days in harsh conditions with people of all walks of life, and learned to appreciate those whose struggles are different from my own. 

I carried my pride of growing up low-income from Detroit all the way with me and used it as a tool of strength, especially on days that I was too tired to go home and slept on a hay bale in my riding clothes. After working in this career for several years I recognized that I would never feel fulfilled if I did not use my life to leave the world better than how I found it, and decided I would want to go back to school to get a degree that would help me help the environment. 

Now, about to graduate I am setting my sights on getting a field position to work for a while before looking into graduate schools. I’m a runner, climber, and social justice advocate but most importantly I am a very proud Michigan native and am extremely excited to use what I have learned at NMU to leave the world better than how I found it, in any way that I can. I hope to use any platform I am given in my life to spread awareness for peace, tolerance, and every individual’s ability to use their privilege to help others- I see this as the number one way to help save our planet, which I believe is the responsibility of all.

3 years ago
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