Cindy Carbajal

Cindy Carbajal is a transfer public health major, biology minor from Hebron, IL

Hometown: Hebron, IL

High School: Alden-Hebron High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2026

Minor: Biology

Transfer From: McHenry County College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
While looking at universities near me, NIU got my attention due to its location, atmosphere and support provided when applying. NIU has truly felt like a place I could call home from the beginning and has allowed me to stay close to my family.

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 always dreamed of pursuing a job in health care. I vividly remember a time in kindergarten when they made us create a self-portrait of what we wanted to be when we got older. I drew myself in blue scrubs and a white coat, with a stethoscope around my neck. Now that I am older and attending university, I have decided to major in public health along with completing the prerequisites for a physician assistant program. While it took me a while to decide which specific health care profession I wanted to pursue, I feel extremely confident and excited about my decision.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
When first trying to decide my major, I landed on biochemistry. However, the more I learned about public health through those around me, social media and professionals, the more I wanted to pursue said major. Prior to starting my first semester, I ended up changing my major to public health, along with declaring a minor in biology. As I began to comprehend more about what public health truly is, I realized that it is all around us and is extremely vital to the survival and well-being of our society. There are a variety of facets to the major, and through studying it, I feel as though I am effectively developing my skills to better serve my community.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
Through Research Rookies, I have developed new and crucial skills associated with meaningful research. My research has been focused on assessing the prevalence of moral injury among health care professionals and students pursuing an occupation in health care. Moral injury refers to distressing experiences one undergoes or witnesses that injure an individual's moral conscience. As someone who is aspiring to become a PA, this is a topic I feel passionate about understanding in order to further comprehend the hardships health care workers experience throughout their careers. When more accurately understood, the impact of moral injury on mental health, physical health and overall performance can be assessed and addressed in an effective manner.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Being a transfer student, it was a bit difficult in the beginning trying to integrate myself into the NIU life and community. When I signed up for Research Rookies, I thought it would be an excellent way to gain experience and make connections. Just as I thought, the program really allowed me to put myself and my interests out there and connect with other students and staff who understood my goals. I am extremely grateful to have been in the program and believe it has allowed me to flourish in numerous ways. I now have a better understanding of what research is and can be.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
Prior to starting the Research Rookies program, I had this idea in my mind that research was something conducted in a lab by individuals wearing gloves, goggles and white coats. I was unaware of the multiple, distinct avenues one can take to become involved in research. The experience opened my eyes to the endless possibilities there are when it comes to investigating different topics. Along with this, research has taught me valuable skills I will continue to utilize throughout my education, as well as life. It has expanded my critical thinking abilities and shown me the value behind the ways in which research can be conducted. Not every scenario is going to fit an exact research plan, and I'm glad I have become aware of this through this program.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
I would like to express my gratitude toward my mentor Dr. Tomoyuki Shibata and all the staff members involved with the Research Rookies program. Throughout every step of the way, Dr. Shibata made sure I understood the process and meaning behind our research. He provided crucial lessons to aid in the progression of the research and trusted me to advance in the project on an individual level. Anytime I had a question or even seemed confused, he ensured that his explanations were reaching me by asking me questions and following up with me regarding my concerns. Something I truly admire and appreciate about Dr. Shibata is his genuine interest and passion in public health topics, such as the one we focused on in our research. It made me feel even more confident in what we were doing and in myself. So again, I would like to thank him for his mentorship, patience and support throughout the process.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
The number one message I would like to get across is to never be afraid to ask for help. I would consider myself a rather shy person, but conducting research at NIU and presenting at Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE) really helped me step out of my comfort zone. Leading up to the presentation, I was quite nervous and worried about how I would do, but by talking with others, such as my mentor, my peers and the staff conducting the Research Rookie monthly meetings, I felt more at ease. Everyone was always super kind and supportive when I asked for help or support during moments when I was feeling a little lost or overwhelmed. Trust me, there are people who completely understand what you are going through and want to help you succeed. So don't be scared to put yourself out there and advocate for what you need. Research can be demanding at times, but surrounding myself with these supportive individuals really made all the difference.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Growing up in a really small town and attending a community college first, I was quite afraid of how distinct the atmosphere at NIU might be. After all, it is a large campus with a variety of different people. However, I was pleasantly surprised to feel the presence of a tight-knit community on campus. Everyone I have come across has always been extremely friendly and open to connecting. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to find or form close connections, considering I'm a transfer student, but it's been simpler than I thought, and I have enjoyed the experience thus far.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Honestly, the main form in which I have been able to connect with others is by not being afraid to put myself out there. Last semester, I was taking a pretty difficult biology course, and I knew I would greatly benefit from reaching out to other students in the class and studying with them. So, I decided to put my shyness aside and introduce myself to some of the individuals who were taking the same course. By doing so, I made some really great friends and was able to get through the course without feeling so alone or overwhelmed because I always had them to talk material through with. One of the friends I made in this course is actually going to be my future roommate! So, be sure to put yourself out there because you never know how things will turn out until you try.

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 a couple of extracurricular activities that I have found to be very rewarding and helpful. One of them being the Pre-Professional Association for students interested in health care careers. Another organization I am a part of is the Area Health Education Center program, also known as AHEC. I think both of these organizations do an excellent job of encapsulating the different aspects of my education and career goals. The Pre-Professional Association has allowed me to connect with individuals who share the same or similar goals to my own, seeing as though we are all hoping to pursue careers in health care. It's been amazing to connect with those who understand your struggles, but also aspirations. We all help each other in any way we can, and the student organization has provided me with a multitude of great resources. As for AHEC, it is an organization focused on improving the health care individuals are receiving, especially those who are underserved. Being in the program has allowed me to make connections between my public health major and my future career by focusing on the ways in which health care services can be improved for a wide range of individuals. I have also been able to meet so many people I look up to through the program, and I hope to continue to be a worthy member.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
At NIU, I have always felt safe and supported by the Academic Advising Center. Honestly, seeing an academic advisor was always something I dreaded, but being at NIU and having the amazing advisor I do, I always seem to leave my advising appointments feeling relieved. As a first-generation student there is so much I simply do not understand how to navigate, and it gets extremely overwhelming, but my academic advisor has always helped me along the way by making sure I know what I need to do and when, in reference to my goals. I'm extremely appreciative of the department and thankful I have them as part of my support system.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
Honestly, I can't think of any transfer-specific resources I have utilized. The main reason behind that being I was unaware of the different resources available to transfer students. I encourage everyone to do their research thoroughly on the resources that are possibly available to them. Always take advantage of these types of things because they will serve you tremendously in the long run.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The Honors Program has helped facilitate various resources and opportunities throughout my academic journey. I honestly should be taking more advantage of everything the program has to offer. Along with this, being part of the program and its community has been a great experience. Being a part of the program has motivated me to stay on top of my academic and career goals, as it helps me stay focused and on track. I really am grateful for this kind of structure within my academics and all the support that comes from the program, seeing as though everyone within it truly wants to witness you succeed and flourish.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I believe the aspect I enjoy the most about the Honors Program is being surrounded by life-minded individuals who all have distinct backgrounds. No matter what a person's end goal might be, being in the Honors Program allows students to get to know one another and see how their values and ambitions align. I'm glad to be a part of such a welcoming and supportive community.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my absolute favorite professors has been Dr. Bethia King. I had Dr. King during my first semester at NIU for BIOS 209, Fundamentals of Organismal Biology. During each lecture, Dr. King made sure to engage her students and presented material in a way I thought was easy to understand and follow. I especially appreciated that she always included a number of examples throughout her lecture and asked important questions throughout. But the main reason I enjoyed her class was her attitude and excitement. Dr. King is one of those professors you can immediately tell loves her profession and is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others in a way that will stick with them.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly is something I have firmly believed in and stuck by when it comes to being successful in a course. By attending class on a regular basis, actively listening and engaging with the professor and material, one is setting themselves up for a greater chance at success in a course. Whenever I have to miss even a single day, I feel extremely behind in not only the one class I missed, but also all the other courses I am taking. It is so important to show up and be engaged, because that is what it takes to know what is going on and what you have to do or work on outside of the classroom.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is definitely Founders Memorial Library. Whether I want to grab a bite to eat, sit down and study, or meet up with some friends, the library is somewhere I can always go. Not only that, but it has a variety of different resources, such as the writing center. It's honestly a great place to be, and I often go when I want to really focus on the work I need to complete. It also helps that you're surrounded by others who are being productive, so it motivates you to do the same. Being at the library also reminds me of just how lucky I am to be in such a building, pursuing an education and making a better future for myself and my family.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
For anyone researching colleges, I suggest being extremely thorough with the entire process. There are so many different aspects that go into making the final decision, so make sure you are setting yourself up for success. I would also say that prior to starting your research, create a checklist of all the elements you want or need your university to have, starting with top priority and then continuing down. Really decipher what are your must-haves and then focus on things you would want to have. Overall, always focus on what is going to benefit you the most in the long run, and don't be afraid to reach out to those around you for help in navigating what is an overwhelming process at times.

Why is a college education important to you?
Being a first-generation, Mexican American woman, I have always known I wanted to pursue higher education. My parents, who both only have a middle-school education, came to this country not knowing the language or the culture and made a life for themselves and their children. Every day I am thankful and feel immense pride that I am their daughter. Due to their sacrifices and endless support, I have the privilege and opportunity to be attending college. While I am the one attending university, my future degree will also be theirs in a way. For myself and for them, I will continue my education and make sure I do my best to succeed in all my endeavors.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
The main way I manage my time is by using a planner and a calendar. I make sure to put assignment due dates and upcoming events on a large calendar that I then hang up in my room, so I can clearly see it on a daily basis. In my planner, I write out the tasks I want to complete on a specific day. With my planner, I only take things week by week, so I don't become too overwhelmed. By mapping out assignments, events, meetings and other commitments in such a way, I can more easily visualize when I have time for other activities.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I usually stay informed through my student email. I receive a variety of different alerts regarding events occurring on campus. Other than that, I usually stay informed by talking to my friends and seeing the types of activities they are up to in a given week.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
For me, I enjoy dedicating a portion of my day to just focusing on what I need. Some days it may include taking a Netflix break or watching YouTube for a little while to relax. Other days I may read for a bit, go out to eat with my friends or do some yoga. I don't really do the same thing each day to relax or recharge, but those are some activities I allow myself to indulge in when I have time. It is truly all about balance, even if it is just taking a five-minute break when you become too overwhelmed, which is something I do often when trying to grasp a new concept.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Currently, I am unemployed, but I did become a certified phlebotomy technician over the summer, so I hope to obtain a job soon. As for hobbies, I have always loved to read as it provides me with an outlet to escape into a different reality for a bit. Some of my other hobbies include journaling, hiking and hot yoga/Pilates. These are all activities that help me to manage the stress that comes with being a college student, and they are all things I truly enjoy doing. I would also really like to try something new, something I am not used to or familiar with, so I can expand my skills.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
With the start of the fall 2024 semester approaching, I am excited to see what this new school year has to offer. As I continue my journey at NIU, the more grateful I become that I am and will always be a Huskie.