Joe Woolford

Online Student Success Specialist

Responsibilities

Joe supports the success and online student experience of NIU's online prospective and new student population, counseling prospective online students through the application and admissions process, and providing encouragement and support. For continuing online students, he coordinates closely with college/academic unit advisors, financial aid professionals, and technical support specialists to provide students with a seamless student support experience.

Programs Supported

• Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
• Master of Arts in General English Studies
• Master of Public Health
• Master of Science in Health Sciences
• Certificate of Graduate Study: Eating Disorders and Obesity
• Certificate of Graduate Study: Public Health
• Certificate of Graduate Study: Health Professions Education

Background

Joe grew up in Southwest Michigan, but now lives about 10 minutes from the Wisconsin border with his wife, Nina, and their dogs, Roxy and Zeus. Prior to his time at NIU, he spent the last 5 years working in admissions assisting secondary and post-secondary students. Whether it be through academic advising or just answering questions, he has actively worked to be the resource he wishes he had during his college journey.

For leisure, Joe enjoys traveling and binge-watching shows with his wife. He also enjoys playing Warhammer 40k, video games, and adding more action figures and models to his collection. Joe is also passionate about Star Wars, anime, and movies.

Education

• B.F.A., Digital Filmmaking and Video Production, Illinois Institute of Art, 2014
• Certificate of Microcomputer Applications, Kellogg Community College, 2010

Success Tip

Joe’s #1 tip for online students is to take proper time for yourself. Life demands so much of us, so make sure you have at least one thing that lets you decompress from those stressors! It can be something you do with others, or just for yourself. While doing so, also be able to recognize when, “self care” turns into “procrastination,” because we’re all guilty of it sometimes!