McKelvey Bugner

McKelvey Bugner is a communicative disorders major from Kirkwood, IL

Hometown: Kirkwood, IL

High School: United High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2027

Minors: Psychology and deafness

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 went through many different phases of what I wanted to be before I settled on one. At one point, I wanted to be a meteorologist, then a lawyer. Eventually, when I was 14, I settled on wanting to be a speech pathologist in a veterans’ hospital. That is the current major I am pursuing now to make it a reality.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is communicative disorders with dual minors in psychology and deafness. I chose these minors because I have always had an interest in psychology and sign language. I also figured they may help me later in my future job, with sign language as an alternative communication method, and a background in psychology is always good to have.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Something that has been pleasantly surprising has been how nice all the professors are. They have been very helpful and always try to answer any questions that students may have, even ones that may be out of left field.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have met quite a few new people and formed a few friendships that have potential to last a lifetime.

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 Communicative Disorders Student Association (COMDSA) and the University Honors Program. They have enhanced my experiences as a Huskie by providing me with opportunities to meet new people and do things I normally wouldn't go for. Through honors especially, I have had experiences I would never have found on my own.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
One resource I use is the Procrastination Cafe. It provides a dedicated place to do my homework, and while I am there, I can be confident that things are going to get done on time.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
I am part of the direct admit program between honors and graduate study in communicative disorders. Through this program, I have a spot in graduate school waiting for me. This helps me greatly because it ensures I have a guaranteed graduate school when I get to that point.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
The thing I enjoy most is all the events they do. Without them, I would probably not socialize as much or seek out things to do. The different kinds of events also give me chances to try something new.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors is Dr. Jamie Mayer. I took her COMD 330 course, which is Neuroscience of Communication and Associated Behaviors. She taught the class in a way that made neuroscience make sense. I went into the class very worried about it and came out confident in my abilities.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly is so beneficial because I rely on asking questions in the moment. On top of that, most of the time when I am confused, the professor will explain it in a different way than how the slide is worded.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
There is a bench near Wirtz Hall that my friend and I frequent. We like it because it is close to our classes and it’s a good spot for people watching.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Make a list of what matters the most to you and pay attention to how that college approaches it.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because most jobs I want require at least a bachelor’s, if not a master’s.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I have a planner where I write down every event. It keeps me organized so I can plan out when things are due or when I am free to go out with friends.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I use Huskie Hub for events, Suitable for Honors events and the NIU app to find services that I need.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I take 20-30 minutes of what I deem recharge time. Sometimes I will take a nap during that time, but most of the time I just read or do something that doesn't require a lot of thought. It helps me calm down before a big assignment or studying for a test.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I love art. I paint, draw, sew and make jewelry. I just like to create things that show my personality and feelings.