Shelly Bogdanovic

Shelly Bogdanovic is an engineering technology major from LaGrange, IL

Hometown: LaGrange, IL

High School: Lyons Township High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2027

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received a Merit Scholarship based on my high school GPA. This scholarship helps relieve some of the financial burden college can place on students and their families. Not only does it reward me for the hard work I put in during high school, but it also motivates me to continue holding myself to a high academic standard. I’m truly grateful for this support, as it allows me to make the most of my college experience.

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’ve always known that I love problem-solving. Growing up with my mom as an accountant, I assumed I’d follow in her footsteps, but I never really had something I knew I wanted to pursue. In high school, when discussing my future career, I didn't really have a plan. My counselor suggested I look into engineering, a field that combines my passion for math and problem-solving.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is engineering technology with an emphasis in industrial and production engineering technology (IPET). Once I was recommended to look into engineering, I started taking engineering courses offered at my high school. This is where I discovered my love for computer-aided design. I started at NIU as an industrial management and technology major with an emphasis in design and production, which combined my interests in leadership and computer-aided design. Recently, the engineering technology department went through some changes, so I had to choose a new major. I decided on IPET because I would love to work in a warehouse or factory one day as a project manager, and this major is a great steppingstone toward that goal.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I have enjoyed how easy it is to connect with professors. I was always worried that college would be like the movies, with giant lecture halls where you don’t get to know your professors. But in my experience at NIU, my professors truly care about me as a student and want to see me succeed in my career.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have formed new friendships through both my sorority and my classes. Although all the members have different majors, we all want the best for each other and love going on study dates. In class, once I started my core courses, I began to notice some familiar faces. I now have many of the same people in my classes, and we've grown close. I can always rely on them as motivators and feel comfortable asking for help when I’m struggling.

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 member of Sigma Sigma Sigma, a Panhellenic sorority on campus. This organization has given me some of the best memories of my college experience, along with lifelong friendships. I’ve also gained valuable leadership experience during my time here. I currently serve as the vice president of new member education, and this role has helped me build confidence in my leadership skills.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Department of Engineering Technology has always supported me throughout my time at NIU. The advisors and professors in the department have guided me through my major and helped me find internship and scholarship opportunities. Their support has made a meaningful difference in my academic journey.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors is Dr. Shanthi Muthuswamy. I met her this semester in my Plant Location, Layout and Material Handling class (TECH 429). Her teaching style has made it easy for me to absorb the material, and she genuinely cares about her students, always making sure we understand the content. She is approachable, patient and happy to help with any questions. Dr. Muthuswamy also gave me the opportunity to attend Promat 2025, where I was able to meet and network with various companies in the manufacturing and production industry.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class is not only a great way to ask questions about what you’re learning, but it’s also where I’ve met many of my friends. These are people I rely on for studying together and for help when I have questions. Additionally, connecting with professors is an important part of college, especially when you need a letter of recommendation or a reference for an internship. Going to class regularly helps me succeed academically and build strong relationships with both classmates and professors.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot is The Greenhouse in Sycamore. The atmosphere is perfect for studying with friends, and it’s become one of my go-to places during busy weeks. They have a great menu and plenty of seating options, which is nice when I want a change of scenery during a long day of studying.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Make sure you choose the college that is best for you. A lot of people may try to influence your decision, whether it is friends or family, but only you know what is right for you. It is also important to remember that everything will work out. If you do not get into a college you really wanted, trust that everything happens for a reason.

Why is a college education important to you?
I have always loved learning, and I knew from a young age that I was going to go to college, even if I didn’t yet know what I wanted to do. My mom has always inspired me. She went back to school later in life to earn her master’s degree, and she has always been my biggest role model. Now that I have completed almost two years of college, I have never doubted my decision. I know I made the right choice by coming to NIU.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I always live by the philosophy "work hard, play hard." I make sure to finish my schoolwork before doing anything fun, which helps me avoid stress later on. So far, I’ve stuck with this approach, and it has helped me maintain a high GPA while still enjoying the college experience.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I follow a lot of NIU pages on Instagram, and that’s usually where I find fun campus activities. One of my favorites that I try to attend as often as possible is "Chilling with Chase." I get to spend time with therapy dogs, and it gives me a much-needed brain break between classes or study sessions.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I love watching new movies or TV shows. Whether I’m relaxing in bed after a long day or having a movie night with friends, it’s a sure-fire way to let my brain turn off and just relax.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I love watching movies at the movie theater. Over the summer, I work at the same job I have had since high school at AMC Theaters. I get free movies, so even if it is something I have never heard of, I love spontaneously going to see films with my family and friends. I also enjoy playing video games like Minecraft and Overwatch.