Hamid Bateni

What year did you start working at NIU?
2007

Where is your hometown? and where do you live now?
DeKalb

Where did you attend college and what degree(s) have you earned?
I attended McGill University in Montreal, Canada, for my Ph.D. in rehabilitation sciences.

In which department(s) do you teach?
School of Allied Health and Communicative Disorders

Were you a first-generation college student? If so, what advice would you offer to current first generation students?
I was not a first-generation college student but understand and appreciate the efforts of those who are first generation.

What do you like about working at NIU?
Having dedicated close to 18 years of my career to NIU, I can assert without hesitation that there are numerous aspects about NIU that I appreciate. However, if I were to pick one, it would be the commitment of the faculty to the students' education. This dedication creates an atmosphere that fosters top-notch education, as demonstrated by the remarkable success rate of our graduates in national exams to future careers.

What advice would you give to students currently attending NIU?
The journey that has brought you here has been significant; thus, proceed on your chosen path with confidence. The effort you invest today will yield rewards in the future. Remember, you are the architects of tomorrow's world.

Tell us about a research or engaged learning project you have led.
In a recent study, we found that delivering an electrical stimulus to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex via transcranial magnetic stimulation can significantly improve static postural control in an individual with major depressive disorder. This innovative approach could offer a new avenue to reduce fall risk in older adults and other populations who are at high risk of accidental falls and injuries.

What do you enjoy most about mentoring students?
Witnessing their growth and development. Also, having an opportunity to share my knowledge and hopefully make a positive impact on their lives is deeply gratifying.

What do you hope students take away from their college experience?
I am hoping that our students take away a well-rounded set of skills, including but not limited to academic expertise, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, effective communication and adaptability.

What is your favorite memory of NIU?
Several years ago, my students and I submitted several posters for a national conference presentation, and to our delight, they were accepted. During the conference, as it marked their initial experience at such an event, each of them enthusiastically gathered by their posters, taking photos.

What’s one thing about NIU that’s surprised you?
The level of shared governance has surprised me.

What fulfills you personally and professionally?
Research

Which of NIU’s core values align with your own?
Selecting one of the core values is difficult, given my alignment with each of them. However, if I have to choose one, I will opt for equity and inclusion.

Have you contributed to any NIU Foundation fundraising campaigns such as the Day of Giving or Huskies United? If yes, why did you decided to support NIU?
Yes. My contribution stems from my desire to witness the success of our students, recognizing that financial constraints can often pose challenges to their journey.

Do you keep in touch with any NIU alums? If so, are there any doing something interesting and exciting that we should know about? Please share some information with us and we’ll consider them for a future feature. 
Yes, I always keep in contact with our alums to the extent that is possible. As has happened in the past, I am currently submitting a manuscript for publication with two of our alums who graduated last year.

Who has influenced your professional path?
My fifth-grade math teacher influenced my professional path.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you currently doing it? If not, what changed your path?
I wanted to be a professor when I was child.

Are you participating in or have you participated in any NIU shared governance or professional development groups? If so, how has your participation enhanced your experience as an employee?
Within the past few years, I have served in almost every university committee, including Faculty Senate, University Council, program assessment, space, resources and budget. Each committee has given me a chance to learn something new, while contributing to the university.

Are you a member of or hold a position within a professional or community organization? If so, what organization? What is the purpose of that organization and how does being part of this organization benefit you in your role at NIU?
I am a member of American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Through APTA I learn about the most recent scientific advances in the field.

What community organizations are you involved in?
I’m involved with the DeKalb YMCA and St. Mary Catholic School.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to exercise and travel.