Hi Huskies!

Welcome to the second issue of our Office of Online Learning Student Newsletter. We’re thrilled to continue growing the ways we support you — our amazing online learners — so you can thrive at NIU and beyond. Whether you're just getting started or getting ready to walk across the graduation stage, we’re here to equip you with helpful tools, inspiring stories and tips to keep you moving forward.

As someone who has taken online courses myself, I know it can sometimes feel like you’re figuring it out alone. But at NIU, you're never on your own — we’re building a vibrant, supportive online community where Huskies lift each other up, and I’m constantly inspired by the way students show up for one another.

One of the best lessons I’ve learned? Just ask. Ask questions to dig deeper, ask for help when you need it and ask for what you deserve. As a first-generation college student, I’ve seen how
life-changing education can be — and I’ve also faced the doubts and roadblocks that come with it. Learning the art of the ask is a powerful skill, and one that can truly open doors.

As we move through this semester together, make time to embrace the support around you, connect with your fellow Huskies and keep believing in what you’re capable of. Your resilience, curiosity and courage are what make our online Huskie community so strong.

Keep showing up, keep asking and keep going — you’ve got this!  

With pride and support,

Tedra S. Mewhirter, M.A. (she/her/hers)
Assistant Director of Online Student Success
First-gen college grad | Advocate for equity | Cheerleader for online learners everywhere.

Introducing our brand-new Digital Literacy Series — a collection of bite-sized
micro-videos made specifically for online Huskies.

Online learning can feel overwhelming, but we’ve got your back. These quick videos will help you build essential tech skills on your own schedule, enhancing both academic and career success.

Why You’ll Love It:

Big news: NIU students now have free access to Kaplan’s All Access platform.

This includes test prep for graduate school, career credentials and professional licensure exams — as well as skill-building courses — all funded by the state of Illinois and administered by ISAC.

👉 Create your free account.

Level Up Your Skills with Courses Like:

Need help choosing the right course? Check out these Tips on Choosing a Course or connect with Career Services.

Susie Frausto, M.S. in Digital Marketing

As a full-time graduate student in Northern Illinois University’s Master of Science in digital marketing (MSDM) degree program, Frausto is focused on enhancing her career as a marketing executive. Her background includes leading marketing departments for midsized and large companies across industries such as advertising, consumer-packaged goods/food and automotive. She enrolled in the MSDM program to sharpen her skills and stay ahead in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

Frausto joined the Online Student Advisory Committee (OSAC) to share the perspective of an experienced executive returning to school to refresh and expand her expertise. She values the program’s strong foundation, exceptional faculty and commitment to student success — and is honored to support its continued development.

Jennifer Wells, B.S. in Nursing

Wells is a dedicated critical care nurse currently completing her first semester in NIU’s RN to B.S. in nursing degree program. Nursing is her second career — and her true calling. After spending 20 years in accounting and finance and earning both her B.S. in accountancy and her MBA from NIU, she pursued her long-held dream of becoming a registered nurse.

As a wife and mother of four sons, Wells values the flexibility of NIU’s online programs which have seamlessly fit into her busy life. She joined OSAC to support fellow students and help them thrive on their own online learning journeys.

Mitchell Gajda, M.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering

Gajda works in commercial trucking product development and is specializing in engineering management. He finds the program ideal for blending technical expertise with strategic thinking. Initially considering an MBA, he was guided by NIU’s business department toward a
better-fitting path — and he's glad they did.

Through OSAC, Gajda enjoys sharing insights and supporting the growth of accessible, high-quality online programs for fellow Huskies.

Lencia Marshall, M.S. in Digital Marketing

Marshall is a business owner and federal HR specialist who joined OSAC to help improve online programs from the inside. After facing challenges with marketing results for her business, she decided to take control by enrolling in NIU’s MSDM program. Her goal is to confidently manage her own marketing — or effectively evaluate those she hires.

Through OSAC, Marshall is passionate about giving back and supporting fellow students as they pursue their academic and professional goals.

Need to present data in class or at work? Datawrapper is your new best friend.

This free, user-friendly platform helps you create stunning, interactive data visualizations to tell compelling stories with your data.

Top Features:

Don’t Just Take Space — Make It

Focusing in 2025 is tough; distractions are everywhere. That’s why it’s essential to create a dedicated spacefor your studies.

Whether it’s a spare room, a quiet library corner or even a sectioned-off space at home, make sure it’s separate from where you relax. Leave your phone in another room and try productivity apps like LeechBlock or Stay Focused to stay on track.

“Frequent interruptions reduce your ability to retain information and decrease your study time. Make your space work for you — because your success matters!” - Tip from Alex Hinton, online student success specialist.

Career and Academic Workshops:

Graduate Student Sessions:

That’s all for now! Keep an eye out for more updates, success stories and helpful tools in future newsletters. And remember — you’ve got a whole team behind you cheering you on every step of the way.

With Huskie pride,

The Online Student Success Team

Contact Info: Office of Online Learning | online@niu.edu I 815-753-6660