Brianna Baker

Brianna Baker is a rehabilitation counseling graduate student from Rochelle, IL

Hometown: Rochelle, IL

High School: Rochelle Township High school

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2028

Transfer from: Kishwaukee College

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was growing up, I always envisioned myself being a teacher. I always wanted to make a difference in the lives of children, and I thought there was no better way to do so than by teaching. However, I decided to take a different path and become a mental health counselor through the rehabilitation counseling program at NIU.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major was in psychology with a minor in counseling. I chose this course of study because I want to help be a voice for those in their teens and young adulthood by teaching self-advocacy and self-love. These concepts were foreign to me in my adolescence, and I want to try to make a difference in the lives of others by being a support system. The age range of adolescence into young adulthood can be tricky, so I want to be sure that I think back to what I would have needed in those times and apply that to future clients.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Something that I found pleasantly surprising about attending NIU is the sense of community. I received my associate's degree at a community college where I would go to class and then go home. The first day I had class at NIU it instantly felt like I was actually in college. The other students at NIU provide a sense of community by being on campus and being involved with extracurriculars. The professors at NIU have also had a huge impact on how my education feels by being involved and checking in.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
When it comes to connecting with other students, you meet a lot of people through your classes. As you get more involved in your major, you find a common ground where you and your peers can connect.

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 involved in the Huskes BELONG program through my graduate assistant (GA) position. This opportunity has provided me with so many new insights. I have been able to connect with other people who volunteer for the summer camps and make new friends. I have been able to get hands-on experience working with teens who are going into college. I have been able to receive more education through the services we provide, and I have been able to become more involved around campus. These are just a few of the ways it has added to my experience as a Huskie.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
A big emphasis of the rehabilitation counseling program is working with individuals who have disabilities or impairments. Our job as future counselors is to advocate, especially for minority groups. The Disability Resource Center on campus is so helpful with promoting self-advocacy and helping build relationships between faculty and students. It is important for students to be aware of this department so they can be successful in the future.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of the instructors who has had a huge impact on me and my learning is Dr. Nahal Salimi. When I first started the grad program, the idea of actually being in grad school was so intimidating. I was taking two online courses and one in-person class with Dr Salimi. In undergrad, the classes were a lot bigger, but there were just five of us in this graduate course. Although I was new to the program, Dr. Salimi made me feel like my voice made a difference. She engages with her classes using discussion, which allows us to bounce ideas off of each other. The course was focused on case management, and it gave us insight into how we would navigate various cases in the future.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
It is very important to attend class every week. In class, there will be discussions about future exams, and if you aren't attending class, you will miss out on the material. I also take notes in class, both on the PowerPoint presentation and on what the professor discusses.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is by the benches outside of Wirtz Hall. I find the trees that rise overhead to be calming, and it gives a sense of peace when I am doing schoolwork before class.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When researching colleges to apply to, I would recommend visiting campus. NIU has campus tours to help you learn about academic options and available resources.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because learning is an ongoing process. I have a 9-year-old daughter, and I want to lead by example. It is my job to make her proud, to make my parents proud, and most importantly, to feel proud of myself and how far I have come in life. Through my college education, I am supporting my values.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Every semester is different. However, I make sure I take time to do self-care and self-reflection each week. I recognize that life goes on, and I still have to show up every day. Of course, if I get too overwhelmed, I make sure I take time to process and reassess how I can be my best and do my best.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Through the grad program, the Rehabilitation Counseling Student Association (RCSA) involves program members with emails about what is happening. Peers are also a great way to stay informed about events and services available on campus. Another way to stay informed about events and services is through the NIU website.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
When I need to relax or recharge, I like to nap or listen to music. I have found a self-care routine through physical activity, so I find attending the gym regularly helps me get out of my head when I am feeling overwhelmed.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I would say I have a lot of jobs. I am a mother, I am a student, I am a server at a diner, and I am a graduate assistant. All of these have helped shape who I am and what I hold as important. As for hobbies, I love working out and spinning fire.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I just want to say that I truly appreciate the recognition for my hard work and dedication to the Huskies BELONG program and my overall student achievements.