Dear Huskies:
We hope you had a wonderful summer and are ready to dive into an exciting new chapter this fall. Whether you’re continuing your online learning journey with us or starting your very first semester with NIU Online, our Office of Online Learning is proud to be a partner in your success.
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The start of a new semester is the perfect time to set goals, explore new opportunities and re-energize your learning experience. Online courses offer flexibility and independence but remember — you’re never alone in this journey. You’re an important part of the NIU family, and we’re here to provide support, resources and community every step of the way.
This newsletter is designed to keep you connected and informed throughout the semester. In each edition, you’ll find helpful resources, important updates, technology tips and strategies to help you thrive in your online courses.
We are continually inspired by the resilience and accomplishments of our online students, and we look forward to celebrating your successes this semester. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to help.
Here’s to a successful and rewarding fall 2025 semester.
Go Huskies! 🐾
Sincerely,
Mackenzie Gattman and Krista Schaade
Online Student Success Specialists
Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning
Office of Online Learning
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New and Improved NIU Online Website
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We’re excited to share our refreshed NIU Online website. Whether you’re new to NIU or you’re a continuing student, there’s something here to support your journey. Take a few minutes to check out the sections below and see all the resources, support and helpful information available to make your online experience even better.
🖥️ Quick Guide for Our Online Students
💰 Costs and Financial Aid
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- Why it matters: Keep your financial plan up to date — tuition, fees and aid options may change each semester.
- What to do:
- Review current tuition rates and fees.
- Explore scholarships, grants and payment plans for online students.
- Note upcoming deadlines to avoid last-minute stress.
- Tip: Bookmark the Financial Aid/Scholarship and Bursar pages for quick reference.
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- Why it matters: Support resources aren’t just for new students — they help you thrive all the way to graduation.
- What to do:
- Connect with your online student success specialist or academic advisor for guidance or check-ins.
- Make the most out of support services available to you and explore career services to plan your next steps beyond NIU.
- Check out the many ways to stay connected and build community with your fellow Huskies.
- Tip: Schedule a recurring check-in with your success specialist, advisor or instructor — it can make a big difference.
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The goal of the NIU Online website redesign is to serve as a comprehensive, student-centered resource for both prospective and continuing online learners. Our updated site will streamline processes, highlight essential student services, share tips for academic success, showcase our dedicated online learning team, feature student Huskie Spotlights and tell the unique story of NIU Online, emphasizing the unique experience of our online learners.
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Online Student Spotlight - Kimberly Fiedler
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Fiedler is a registered nurse continuing her B.S. in nursing online at Northern Illinois University. Her path has not been without challenges, but she believes every setback is an opportunity to rise again. Returning to her studies reflects not only her commitment to professional growth, but also her belief that perseverance can carry you through the hardest seasons.
As a mother and grandmother, Fiedler treasures the chance to show her family and her students that it is never too late to keep learning, keep striving and keep moving forward.
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She values the flexibility of NIU’s online program, which allows her to balance education with her roles at work and home, and she looks forward to using her degree to continue mentoring and supporting others in their own journeys.
“I want my children and grandchildren to see that no matter what life brings, you can always get back up and finish what you started.”
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Mastering Blackboard for Fall Success
As fall classes approach, it's time to get comfortable with Blackboard, NIU's online learning platform. Whether you're new to online courses or returning for another semester, Blackboard is your central hub for course materials, assignments, grades and communication.
💡 Tips and Tricks:
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- Enable push notifications — Stay updated without constantly checking Blackboard.
- Bookmark important courses — Quickly access your most active courses from the app dashboard.
- Use the calendar feature — Track assignment due dates and sync with your mobile calendar.
- Review offline — Download course materials to access them even when the internet is unavailable.
- More information and tutorials are available in the Students Get Started Guide.
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- Access course materials anywhere — View documents, lectures and assignments on the go. Perfect for reviewing while commuting or between classes.
- Check grades in real time — Track your progress immediately and stay informed about feedback from instructors.
- Stay organized with notifications — Get alerts for new announcements, assignment deadlines and course updates so you never fall behind.
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Success Tip From the Office of Online Learning
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As you dive into your courses, one of the most powerful habits you can have as an online student is proactive communication.
Online learning offers incredible flexibility, but it also means you're the primary driver of your interactions. Don't wait until a small question becomes a big roadblock!
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- Plan and Prioritize Early: Designate time every week to review your course syllabi, mark key assignment deadlines and set up a weekly study schedule. Staying organized from the beginning helps you manage your time effectively, reduces stress and keeps you on track for a successful semester.
- Pro Tip: Combine this with Blackboard notifications and the mobile app to get reminders and updates right on your phone — so you never miss an important deadline.
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Clear and timely communication is key to navigating your online courses successfully and feeling connected to the NIU community. Make it a priority this semester! - Tip from Corbin Tyson, Online Student Success Specialist.
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- Thursday, Sept. 11, 4 to 4:45 p.m. — Thesis and Dissertation Formatting — Graduate School
- Tuesday, Sept. 16, 1 to 2 p.m. — Graduate Colloquium, Asheli Mann-Lofthouse, “Empowering All Voices: A Journey Toward Inclusive Excellence” — Graduate School
- Wednesday, Sept. 17, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. — Writing a Literature Review — Huskie Academic Success Center/Graduate School
- Wednesday, Oct. 1, 1 to 1:30 p.m. - How to Stand Out in an AI-Driven Job Market — Graduate School
- Wednesday, Oct. 1, 4 to 4:45 p.m. — Thesis and Dissertation Formatting — Graduate School
- Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2 to 3 p.m. — Zotero For Citation Management Basics — University Libraries
- Wednesday, Oct. 15, 1 to 1:30 p.m. — Why Recruiters Are Ignoring You — Graduate School
- Monday, Oct. 20, 3 to 4 p.m. — AI Tools for Research and Productivity — University Libraries
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Thank you for staying connected with our Office of Online Learning. We hope these tips and resources help you start your fall semester with confidence and success. Remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way — so don’t hesitate to reach out, explore our online tools and take advantage of all the resources available to you.
Here’s to a productive and rewarding semester. 🎓
With Huskie pride,
The Online Student Success Team
Contact Info: Office of Online Learning | online@niu.edu I 815-753-6660
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Northern Illinois University's vision is to be an engine for innovation to advance social mobility; promote personal, professional and intellectual growth; and transform the world through research, artistry, teaching and outreach. Learn more about NIU’s vision, mission and values.
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