Nina Alejandro

Nina Alejandro is a nursing major from Philippines

Hometown: Philippines

High School: Philippine International School Qatar

Year: Expected graduation: Fall 2026

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received an Honors Program tuition waiver, nursing scholarships and a merit scholarship. I received these scholarships by applying in MyScholarships and reaching out to financial advisors. I am truly grateful for receiving these scholarships. They have made a huge difference by allowing me to focus on my studies, take advantage of opportunities at NIU and move closer to achieving my dreams.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Growing up, I wanted to be a nurse because I admired how they could step into stressful situations and make people feel cared for. I’m in my fourth year of nursing school already, and I am enjoying every clinical we’ve had.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am a nursing major, and I chose nursing because of the opportunities it has and how it offers a wide variety of careers in health care. I see nursing as more than just helping patients; it is about learning, problem-solving and making a real impact in health care. Nursing has become a way for me to challenge myself while doing something meaningful for people.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One thing I have found pleasantly surprising about my experience at NIU is how accessible and helpful campus resources are. The libraries and study spaces make it easy to focus and stay on top of my work, and tutoring services have been a huge support when I need extra help.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
​​I met new people and built friendships through organizations, in class and at events, which has helped me expand my circle and feel more connected to the NIU community. Being involved academically and socially has made my experience more meaningful and enjoyable.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am a part of Alpha Phi Gamma, which is a sorority organization at NIU. I’ve also been an Honors Fellow in the Honors Program for about two years now. These experiences have made my time at NIU meaningful by helping me develop leadership skills and communicate effectively with others. Overall, being involved has enriched my college experience and helped me grow as both a student and a person.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The University Honors Program has been one of the departments that supports me at NIU. Beyond the tuition waiver, the staff and students have been receptive. They check in, offer guidance and create opportunities that challenge me while making me feel supported.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The Honors Program has brought me closer to my academic and career goals because I get to take additional honors classes and seminars that are engaging. Attending events each semester has allowed me to connect with other motivated students. The guidance and mentorship from the honors staff have also been invaluable, helping me stay on track and gain the skills I need to succeed in college and my future career.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
What I enjoy most about the Honors Program is how it combines community and opportunity. I love meeting other students at events; it's an easy way to socialize while learning from each other. I also value the honors staff, who go above and beyond to guide and support us.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
In nursing school, Dr. Cristan Sabio (NURS 318) is one of my favorite instructors. I really appreciate how passionate and engaging he was in teaching. He made complex topics easier to understand and always encouraged questions, which made learning enjoyable. Dr. Sabio really genuinely cared for his students, which is what I appreciate about him, too.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Going to class regularly has helped me keep up with my classes and get additional information. I also get the chance to connect with my professors and classmates if I need something, which makes learning more interactive and enjoyable. Showing up helps me to be better prepared for exams and assignments.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the Holmes Student Center. I like going there to grab food and Starbucks. My friends and I hang out in the Huskie Den to play pool, too. It is a relaxing, chill space where I can relax and have fun with friends.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Look for a place where you can see yourself grow and meet inspiring people. Also, consider if the campus feels like home and see what major courses they offer.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it opens doors to opportunities and gives me the knowledge and skills I need to succeed in my future career as a nurse. It also helps me grow as a person by teaching me how to handle challenges and make decisions. For me, it’s a chance to prepare for the life I want while learning how to make connections and have a positive impact on others.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use Notion planner to help me stay organized and manage all my responsibilities. I create a schedule for school assignments, work shifts and personal time so nothing gets overlooked. When there’s an assignment given, I usually finish it before the deadline so it’s out of the way and I have more time to study.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I check my student email, NIU social media accounts and flyers on campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I enjoy hanging out with friends because it helps me unwind and take a break from stress. I also relax by watching movies and painting.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
At NIU, I work as a survey telephone interviewer and call U.S. residents in Illinois to ask them health-related questions on behalf of the IDPH. I also work as an Honors Fellow in the Honors Program. I mentor freshman students in the honors program and do advising sessions. As a certified nursing assistant, I assist patients with everyday activities like eating, bathing and moving around while helping the health care team provide quality care. In my free time, some of my hobbies include painting, listening to music and watching movies.