LearnServe ResearchEngage

Welcome to Northern Illinois University! Our goal at NIU, as outlined by the Vision 2020 Initiative, is to become the most student-centered public research university in the Midwest. That means your success is our top priority. Toward that end, we provide students with academic enrichment programs and engaged-learning activities that connect the classroom to real-world experiences. This booklet showcases academic opportunities for

new students designed to foster deep learning and critical-thinking skills to ensure your success.

A few examples:

New students are able to participate in Themed Learning Communities, which allow students and their peers to take classes together. The classes are focused on specific themes, such as ethics in business, sustainability, and teachers for social change (pg. 4).

• Through the Research Rookies Program, students can participate in faculty-mentored research projects in and out of the classroom alongside some of the top researchers and scientists in the country and the world (pg. 7-8).

• Our NIU students also can live in residence halls with other students who share similar interests and academic pursuits through the Living Learning Communities (pg. 4).

• Students interested in learning about other cultures are strongly encouraged to explore our study abroad options (pg. 12).

• Students in the University Honors Program take their education a step further by designing individualized programs of study, learning from NIU’s top teaching faculty and exploring their interests in-depth (pg.10).

Countless opportunities abound to stimulate your academic life at NIU. We hope this information helps you discover ways to pursue your interests and strengthen your talents.

John G. PetersPresident, Northern Illinois University

Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning Welcome to NIU! We want to encourage you to use this book to learn about some of the exciting opportunities to get involved in our academic community. From research projects that are searching for a cure for cancer to service projects that are providing care for home bound senior citizens, NIU students have the ability to engage in hands-on meaningful activities that bring to life the world around them.

We believe our student engagement programs will challenge you to define your passions, your academic and professional goals, and ultimately your contribution to society.

Moreover, understanding the breadth of your academic opportunities here at NIU can have a profound impact on your academic journey. It is our hope you will explore these exciting programs and begin to realize your potential while you move toward your degree at Northern Illinois University.

So, as you begin your journey, seek answers…discover your passions. Satisfy your curiousity. Get excited. You have an opportunity to integrate the questions you want answered here at NIU. We provide research and service learning opportunities. We offer integrated classes that explore topics as diverse as physics and math, conflict and creativity, and teachers for social change.

The Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning (OSEEL)and the many programs and offices listed in the book are dedicated to supporting you as you begin your journey at Northern.

Julia SpearsDirector, Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning

Discover your passion!

Satisfy your curiosity!

Get excited!

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Themed Learning Communitieswww.tlc.niu.edu

815-753-8154

We value our students at NIU, so we work hard to make sure each student’s NIU experience is meaningful and unique. NIU’s Theme learning Communities (TLCs) make transitioning to college life easier.

Students who enroll in a TLC build social and intellectual relationships with classmates and faculty that can last a lifetime. Class sizes in TLCs are usually 20 – 25 students encouraging enhanced interaction between classmates and faculty.

Each TLC is focused on a common theme. The TLC is made of 2 to 3 classes teaching this theme from different perspectives. NIU faculty work together to create common assignments among the linked TLC courses. This collaboration provides the student an enriched learning environment and a great introduction to NIU.

Research at NIU demonstrates that students who are involved in Themed Learning Communities persist in school and have higher GPAs. Get a solid foundation your first semester on campus and enroll in a TLC!

Living Learning Communitieswww.niu.edu/housing/LLC

815-753-1525

A Living Learning Community (LLC) consists of several floors dedicated to students from the same academic interest or lifestyle area. Living Learning Communities bring together floors or halls of motivated students who learn as they live together. LLC residents take part in the same social and educational activities enjoyed on other floors, while also enjoying special programs, speakers, field trips, and activi-ties. To support activities in the houses, LLC residents will be charged an additional programming fee. For a complete description of NIU’s LLCs, visit www.housing.niu.edu.

Living Learning Communities are co-sponsored by Housing & Dining and NIU academic colleges and departments or student support offices. Dedicated faculty members serve as guides to students as they pursue their academic goals and hone their professional skills.

EligibilityIn most programs, priority is given to students who have a major, or who have a major, in the academic field related to the program. In some cases, students with a strong inter-est in the academic discipline are accepted. Acceptance into the LLC is not automatic. Some programs require a minimum GPA or ACT score.

BenefitsThe focus on a particular field of study enables an LLC to offer additional benefits: out-of-class interaction with professors in your academic field; additional opportunities for career information, internships, and networking with faculty members and professionals; programs and special facilities that will enhance your classroom learning and leadership skill development; social and cultural activities with students, faculty, and staff; improved academic perfor-mance—on average, students in LLCs earn a higher GPA.

Themed Learning Communities-Learn TogetherBusiness EthicsMajor ExplorationCreativity & ConflictExploring Health MajorsGlobal Perspectives The American Experience at Home and Abroad How GREEN is your paw print? Calculus and Physics for EngineersPromise ScholarsTeachers as Ambassadors for Social ChangeCivic Engagement

Living Learning Communities-Live TogetherBusiness Careers HouseExploring Majors HouseFine Arts HouseHealth Professions HouseHonors HouseInternational HouseScience/Engineering/Technology (SET) House

Teacher Education and Certification House (TEACH)Transfer HouseJourneys of Spirituality & Meaning FloorReserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Floor

Explore Your Focus!4

Many of the university’s themed and living learning communities connect students to individuals with similar academics goals, interests and lifestyles. Themed Learning Communities consist of 2-3 courses students take together around a common theme while Living Learning Communities consist of several residence hall floors centered around a common interest or area of study. See a full listing at www.tlc.niu.edu

I highly recommend getting

involved in Themed Learning

Communities. We work together

in three shared courses and really

help each other out. It’s a great

experience. Tevin Rodgers, Student TLC Program

Students who have taken TLCs say:“It’s a great way to feel very connected to the University. TLC classes helped me feel like I was truly a part of NIU.”

“TLC is a good foundation to prepare us for college.”5

First-Year Connectionsorientation.niu.edu/orientation/fyc

815-753-1535

Starting college at Northern Illinois University will be a major turning point for you. Life at Northern will be different from your previous experiences and will challenge you in new ways both in and out of the classroom. The First-Year Connections program is intended to help you make a successful transition to university life. Its components include the first-year course, UNIV 101/201, and the First-year Success Series, a speaker series that guides new students in their transition to NIU.

UNIV 101/201UNIV 101 is a 12-week, one credit-hour course designed exclusively for freshmen. UNIV 201 is a 12 week, one-credit hour course specifically for transfer students. Course content for 101 and 201 includes adjusting to college life, getting involved on campus, and joining a diverse community. The course also covers strategies for academic success, finding and using university resources, choosing a major, and preparing for a career. Sections are taught by trained instructors from departments and offices across NIU’s

campus. Sections are limited to 20 students, so you’ll have the opportunity to get to know your classmates. Research at NIU and across the country proves that students who complete a UNIV course have higher GPAs and are more likely to return to the university than students who don’t.

You can register for UNIV through Northern’s online registration system, MyNIU. Most sections are open to any student, but some are reserved for students in certain majors or programs and require a permit number for registration. Several UNIV courses are connected with the Themed Learning Communities. To obtain information regarding a permit number, contact Orientation & First-Year Experience at 815-753-1535 or at firstconn@niu.edu.

First Year Success Series are workshops that are offered every fall for students new to NIU. Speakers and workshops over a wide range of topics such as: time management, civic engagement, and getting involved.

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OSEEL Research Opportunitieswww.niu.edu/ugresearch

815-753-8154

Many learn by doing. At NIU, there are many opportunities to engage students in hands-on research experiences in their disciplines. Students conducting research as undergraduates are able to gain relevant skills while expanding their oppor-tunities, both academically and professionally. The programs below highlight several venues to get started in undergradu-ate research. Students can begin hands-on, faculty-mentored research as early as freshman year with the Huskie Research Rookies program and continue through graduation. We have a place for your to explore your field of interest!

Research Rookie ProgramThe Research Rookies program works to link students with faculty mentors in their major or area of interest to conduct a small-scale research project. As a Research Rookie, students will learn what research looks like in their field of study. Stu-dents will also learn how to write a formal research proposal, gain experience working alongside talented faculty, attend professional and academic enrichment activities, present their work at the annual Undergraduate Research and Artistry Day, and receive a $500 stipend at the end of the program in the spring. It is the perfect way for highly motivated students to connect with one another as well as with supportive faculty and graduate students.

Undergraduate Research & Artistry DayUndergraduates who have conducted an original research, scholarly, or creative project under the guidance of a faculty mentor will be invited to display an informational poster at the annual Undergraduate Research & Artistry Day at the end of the spring semester. Faculty, students, staff, collaborating partners, and others are invited to attend the event to learn more about the work of NIU undergraduates. Prizes will be awarded for top posters. In addition, one research advisor will be honored with the Faculty Mentor of the Year award.

Undergraduate Research AssistantshipsThe Undergraduate Research Assistantship (URA) program is a new initiative of the Great Journeys Strategic plan to expand the opportunities for students to work on faculty mentored research. URAs are will support approximately 15-20 students during the fall, spring or summer semesters. The program offers on-campus employment opportunities for NIU undergraduate. Students selected for an Undergraduate Re-search Assistantship are able to work under the guidance of a faculty member in a position that is directly related to their career path and/or academic discipline. Students will work 10 hours per week and are paid $10 per hour. Work-study positions are available and encouraged.

Research

Undergraduate Travel FundStudents who are interested in presenting their research and artistry at regional or national conference can apply to the Undergraduate Research/Artistry Travel Fund for up to $300 in support. To be eligible, undergraduates must be present-ing their research or artistry at national/regional/local peer-reviewed conferences. Student must also receive matching support from their faculty mentor, department, and/or col-lege equal to the amount requested from the Provost’s office. All applications materials are online.

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Undergraduate Special Opportunities in Artistry and Research (USOAR)www.niu.edu/usoar

Undergraduate Special Opportunities in Artistry and Research (USOAR) provides university funds for student-generated research projects, whether the study is conducted on campus, somewhere in the United States, or overseas. Students can apply for up to $2,500 to support their project. Projects should come under the direct supervision and evalu-ation of members of the regular faculty. USOAR applications are accepted twice a year in October and February.

PROMISE Scholars Programwww.niu.edu/promise/

815-753-9222

Northern Illinois University offers The PROMISE (Providing Resources and Opportunity to Maximize Interest in STEM Education) Scholars Program designed to attract and support students interested in the critical fields of science, technolo-gy, engineering or math (STEM). The NIU PROMISE Scholars Program is a campus-wide initiative for new freshmen and sophomore students enrolled in a STEM major or undecided about their major choice. PROMISE Scholars will partici-pate in a summer pre-college program, STEM Learning Communities, research and peer opportunities with faculty and students, and career readiness activities with national corporations.

Operation ETank: Moving toward a Sustainable World www.niu.edu/reu

The research focus of the NIU Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, Operation ETank, is in areas of energy and the environment, with aspects of ethics and economy (the 4 Es) incorporated into broader problems and related to the broader issue of sustainability. Students involved in the program will be mentored by faculty members having wide-ranging backgrounds in relevant research areas. Students will participate in individually mentored research endeavors (i.e., environment or energy), but their overall learning experience will include a number of opportunities to relate sustainability issues to their research projects. The NIU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology have a long history of working together on collaborative STEM projects and funded research. This is an National Science Foundation funded initiative and most REU participants are non-NIU students.

College – Specific Apprenticeship ProgramsThese programs allow faculty to engage undergraduates in their research and artistry agendas. It allows students to closely work with faculty on expanding their domain of knowledge and skills and are designed to support mentor-ships that involve faculty members with qualified, highly motivated students.

Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program (URAP)College of Liberal Arts and Scienceswww.niu.edu/clas/research/uraps

Engineering Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship (EURA)College of Engineering and Engineering Technologywww.niu.edu/ceet/research/EURA.shtml

Undergraduate Artistry & Research Apprenticeship Program (UARAP)College of Visual and Performing ArtsContact: The Office of the Dean, 815-753-1636

College of Business Experiential Learning Center (ELC)College of Business www.cob.niu.edu/elc/

Photo courtesy of DeKalb Daily Chronicle.

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Discovery9

University Honors Programwww.niu.edu/honors

815-753-0694

The University Honors Program at Northern Illinois Univer-sity offers enriched academic experiences and co-curricular opportunities for highly motivated and academically-talented students. The program, which facilitates a small college at-mosphere at the heart of a major research university, enjoys a rich tradition, promotes academic excellence, and fosters a strong sense of community.

Program BenefitsUniversity Honors students enjoy early course registration, access to small classes, personalized interactions with Honors faculty and staff, special advising, and Honors-sponsored academic, social, and service programming beyond the class-room. Honors students can use the resources of the University Honors Center, apply for special funding opportunities to sup-port their educational pursuits, and choose to live with other Honors students in NIU’s newest residential facility. Further-more, graduates of the program receive an Honors notation on their NIU transcript and special recognition at an “Honors Day” ceremony and university commencement.

Honors RetreatFor decades, University Honors freshmen have begun their NIU college experience at the Honors Retreat. The retreat takes place at NIU’s scenic Lorado Taft campus the week before fall semester classes begin. The two-day program introduces new students to their peers, upper-division Honors student leaders, faculty, staff, as well as community and campus resources.

University Honors CenterLocated on the first floor of the Campus Life Building, the Honors Center offers students a place to gather, study, meet, and relax. The space includes a computer lab, a technology enhanced classroom, meeting space, a quiet study area, and staff offices. Popular traditions in the University Honors Center include weekly soup and chili lunches—dubbed “SOUPer” Wednesdays—and workshops with faculty and alumni.

Honors HouseThe Honors House is a co-ed, living-learning community of 200 students. It is an on-campus residential option for all stu-dents admitted to the University Honors Program. Located in the East Hall of NIU’s New Residential Complex, the Honors House features new, state-of-the-art single-room living, semi-private bathrooms, and outstanding amenities from central air conditioning and wireless internet to an exclusive recre-ational center to all-you-can eat dining hall with a variety of food options. The Honors House is staffed by community advisors and Honors House leaders who share duties in building a strong community. Regular special events include

excursions to Chicagoland, leadership and career develop-ment workshops, unique cultural experiences, community service opportunities, floor competitions, and community-building activities. “Quiet lifestyle” and “transfer” clusters are available.

Special Funding OpportunitiesUniversity Honors students may apply for Enhance Your Edu-cation (EYE) Grants, which provide up to $1,000 in funding for research projects or other educational enhancements. Honors students also have opportunities to compete for tuition waivers, scholarships, and funding to support study abroad experiences.

What is the difference between University Honors and Department or College Honors programs?

The University Honors Program spans all majors at NIU, while department and college honors programs each come with their own set of requirements, set forth by the respective academic department or college. Students are encouraged to complete department and university upper division honors in tandem, and special allowances are made for students selecting this option. Department and college honors are generally only available to juniors and seniors. In some cases, the requirements for a student to achieve department or college honors are designed to complement the require-ments of the University Honors Program, thus making the successful completion of department or college honors and university honors seamless.

“Being part of the Honors Program community is a true

advantage when coming to a large campus, as you never feel lost in

the crowd.”

~ Nora Lindvall

Tradition, Excellence, Community10

www.niu.edu/engage

ENGAGE! is a list of NIU’s engagement and outreach activities that helps students get real, get connected, and get noticed. Sign up for artistry, research projects, internships, or service activities that help you apply the skills you learn the classroom to solve real-world problems.

Why ENGAGE!?Students who include engaged learning activities in their university experience are more likely to be successful in college and beyond.

• Building relationships with fellow students, faculty, and staff helps you feel like a vital member of the greater NIU community

• Working with professors, peers, and other influential people in your field helps you expand your professional network

• Participating in engaged learning is a great way for you to stand out from the crowd of future job applicants

Special Opportunities through ENGAGE!• Be a part of faculty research projects

• Make an impact both on and off campus

• Search NIU calendars to stay involved in campus activities

• See what your college is doing to engage in outreach and community-building

• Study abroad

Go to ENGAGE! and get searching today!

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Study Abroadwww.studyabroad.niu.edu

815-753-0700

A Value-Added Component of an NIU Education!Participation in a study abroad program adds value to any degree, undergraduate or graduate. The value of study abroad can be found in the development, experience, and future employability of students who have studied abroad, among other benefits. Study abroad programs and/or in-ternships are available in every major offered at NIU.

Some study abroad programs can cost more than studying at the NIU campus in DeKalb, but the skills, qualities, and experiences you’ll gain make study abroad a very sound in-vestment. Also, scholarships and financial aid are available to make study abroad more affordable for every student.

DevelopmentMost students who’ve studied abroad genuinely feel that the experience changed their life. While this statement may seem dramatic, there is research to support it. Research on the learning outcomes of study abroad is an expanding field, and there are several recent and ongoing studies that suggest that study abroad helps students to develop in many ways, allowing them to become more independent, flex-ible, and aware of their place in the world. Many of these developments are part of any college education, but through study abroad they are enhanced and deepened.

ExperiencesIn NIU’s twice-weekly Study Abroad 101 information sessions, we tell students to “do it now, while you still can!” Financial aid is available to help you travel the world and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Also, many students make friendships and contacts throughout the world that last much longer than their experience.

Future EmployabilityA recent study by the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) found that employers seek skills and char-acteristics students who have studied abroad possess. Quali-ties such as risk taking, flexibility, and creativity are valuable to employers, and study abroad enhances these qualities. For this reason, study abroad experience may even help you obtain a better job after graduation, because – as the world gets “smaller” – the value of study abroad to employers increases.

Study Abroad Options at NIUNIU students can choose from several options, including win-ter break, semester, summer, or year-long programs. Staff in the Study Abroad Office are available to advise and guide students throughout the process, so please feel free to call, e-mail: niuabroad@niu.edu or visit us.Study Abroad Office, Williston Hall 417

“I owe this place so much. Who I am now is a direct result of the experiences I’ve had, the people I’ve met, and the love I’ve found for Salamanca. It’s a rare joy to have the opportunity to study abroad. It was a decision that, to this day, I’m shocked I had the guts to make. But here I am...and here a part of me will always be. Ten fe en ti”

-Kristen Roenfanz, Salamanca, Spain

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Service and Civic Engagement Programswww.service.niu.edu

NIU offers several programs for students to get involved in the community through service and civic engagement. Check out the options below to find out how you can get involved with NIU and the surrounding community:

The Office of Student Engagement & Experiential Learning provides students with several opportunities to get involved in the community.

Huskie Service Scholars The Huskie Service Scholars program pairs upper-classmen with first-generation or low-income students entering NIU for the first time. These students will work to complete 300 hours of community service and will receive $1,132 in tuition.

Project on Civic Reflection The Project on Civic Reflection (PCR) helps NIU students, faculty, and staff come together to discuss and relate literature and media to their civic engagement experiences.

Service-Learning Students can learn and provide service for their communities in a variety of service-learning courses. This type of progressive education gives students a sense of empowerment and a better understanding of issues in diversity and civic responsibility. A listing of service-learning course are available at www.oseel.niu.edu.

The Office of Student Involvement & Leadership Development (SILD) niu.edu/studentinvolvement/volunteer, provides students with several opportunities to become more actively engaged both on and off campus.

I Serve niu.edu/iserve/

NIU is proud to participate in the Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge launched by President Obama. We are partnering with Feed ‘Em Soup and the Voluntary Action Center to help relieve hunger in our community.

NIU also provides opportunities for undergraduate students to pick majors with a focus on service and civic engagement through departments like the:

Center for NGO and Leadership Development (NGOLD) www.niu.edu/ngold

Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability and Energy www.niu.edu/ese

At NIU, the opportunities to get involved in

service and civic engagement are

endless!

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Office of Student Academic Successwww.niu.edu/osas

815-753-5721

The Office of Student Academic Success (OSAS) collaborates with faculty, staff, and students to provide innovative service that help students reach their academic and personal goals. Through individualized academic coaching and group workshops and programs, students are challenged to explore their academic options, define personal and academic goals, expand their support network, enhance their critical thinking skills, and graduate in a timely manner.

Why MAP-Works? Because IT WORKS!Starting a college career on the right track is important for establishing success, and NIU’s MAP-Works program is here to help from day one.

Incoming students have shown the ability to earn a higher GPA, successfully complete additional courses, and reduce the risk of academic probation while benefiting from additional NIU support and assistance.

All new Huskies are automatically enrolled in the MAP-Works program. MAP-Works participants complete a series of brief personal surveys regarding academic skills and behaviors, social interactions, campus involvement and overall expectations. Three surveys will be administered during the 2012-2013 academic year.

The answers to these questions are combined with the student’s academic credentials and provide a summary report that highlights personal strengths and possible challenges as well as related campus resources. Students can view their reports online or print a PDF copy.

Likewise, dedicated NIU faculty and staff who work with the students on a regular basis also have access to the information. Some of these professionals include instructors, academic advisors, student success specialists, and residence hall directors. Together, they provide an individualized network of support for each student by helping them achieve academic success and personal victories.

Make sure you succeed by participating in the MAP-Works program. Students who participate will receive a thank you gift for each survey and could be eligible for scholarships.

If you have any questions at all, please contact the Office of Student Academic Success.

Student Success SpecialistsStudent Success Specialists are located in each of the academic colleges as well as in the Academic Advising Center and the Division of Outreach.

Specialists collaborate with students, their families, advisors, faculty members, and other administrators to develop appropriate action plans regarding personal and academic support issues. They connect students to relevant campus resources through direct referrals and personal connections.

To find out who your student success specialist is, visit www.niu.edu/osas/aboutus/staff.shtml

Financial CentsEarn It. Keep It. Save It. Financial Cents is a campus-wide, comprehensive financial literacy program aimed at increasing student financial awareness and knowledge.

Financial Cents covers a wide variety of financial issues and education through programming, workshops, informational booths, campus referrals, community involvement, and an educational and interactive website.

Make sure to take advantage of this program and all of its resources, visit www.financialcents.niu.edu

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Scholarship Officewww.scholarships.niu.edu

815753-4829

The Scholarship Office works in coordination with the Office of Student Financial Aid to connect NIU students with various scholarship resources. Visit the NIU ScholarshipFinder System www.scholarships.niu.edu to begin your search for academic scholarship opportunities at the university. Many of these scholarships are for upperclassmen who make academic progress in their major. Be sure to search early! We recommend that students begin their search during the fall semester prior to the next academic year.

One of NIU’s most prestigious scholarships is the Forward, Together Forward Scholarship. Students who have earned credit at NIU can apply for this $4000 memorial scholarship that is based on strength of character such as a strong work ethic, motivation, inspiration, a high regard for others, integrity, and intellectual curiosity.

NIU also offers assistance based on financial need. Be sure to file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by March 1 of the preceding academic year in order to

be considered for the maximum amount of financial aid. In addition, we sometimes have scholarship funding to assist with the cost of education. Check our web site frequently for updated scholarship opportunities, www.scholarships.niu.edu.

You may also want to consider looking for scholarships outside of NIU. Check with your high school guidance counselor, local organizations or affiliations (Kiwanis, 4-H, Lions Club), employers (both yours and your parents), your church, the Chamber of Commerce, or places of personal volunteerism (local hospitals, clubs, etc).

Northern Illinois University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, status based on the Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA) or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran. Further, the Constitution and Bylaws of Northern Illinois University provides for equal treatment regardless of political views or affiliation, and sexual orientation.

Printed by authority of the State of Illinois. www.niu.edu

Designed and produced by the NIU Office of Publications and printed by NIU Document Services.

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