Ella Agolli

Ella Agolli is a transfer elementary education major from Palatine, IL

Hometown: Palatine, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2023

Major: Elementary Education

Transfer from: Harper College

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I work at a nursing home in Arlington Heights, Illinois. The New Hope Scholarship is a resident-funded and resident-driven program that awards academic and vocational scholarships to employees of Presbyterian Homes at The Moorings. Scholarships are available to employees through the generosity of donors to the Geneva Foundation of Presbyterian Homes. Getting this scholarship has really helped me financially.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
I come from a family of teachers. I have wanted to be one ever since I was a little girl. NIU has a great education program and I'm glad I’m continuing my education here. 

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is elementary education/ESL. When I first moved to this country, I had a lot of support from my ESL teachers. I want to help and support other kids who have just moved here and do not know the language. 

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
This is my second semester at NIU and so far, I haven't had a bad teacher. Everyone has been so supporting and understanding. 

How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
It has been hard, and it’s even harder when you don’t live on campus.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor is Jeremy Groves. He is my microeconomics teacher. He makes class fairly easy. He’s fun and easy to understand. In addition, he is very funny and always makes me laugh with the emails he sends. 

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Apply for as many scholarships as you can!

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
The whole “going to school” experience has been different because of the pandemic. 

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like going on long rides with my friend. We drive around and look for new places to eat or take pictures. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I love being a Huskie! I'm glad I chose NIU to finish my education.