Jailynn Carter

Jailynn Carter is a chemistry major from Thornton, IL

Hometown: Thornton, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2024

Major: Chemistry

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I have been awarded the Golden Apple scholarship, the Noyce scholarship and the BELONG in STEM scholarship because of my academic achievements and passion for teaching chemistry. The Golden Apple program helps future teachers develop skills that will be useful in their classrooms. I have learned so much from this program. The Noyce scholarship was given to me because of my compassion for helping others understand science. It’s connected me to great resources and people that have helped me better understand how to be an effective science teacher. I was awarded the BELONG in STEM scholarship because of my involvement in the STEM community. Through these programs, I have been able to connect with peers and express my thoughts about classes and the future. 

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 younger, I really wanted to be a fashion designer or a superstar. As I grew older, I wasn’t set on any career in particular. However, in my junior year of high school, I realized I have always been a teacher. Before my brother was in school, I would pretend to be his teacher and show him what I learned that day. When I took a student teaching course my senior year of high school, I realized I was meant to teach. I’m now majoring in chemistry and getting my license to teach high school chemistry.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m majoring in chemistry because I found the subject very interesting in high school. I like that there are no definite answers in chemistry and so many new things to learn.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I was pleasantly surprised by the number of opportunities that NIU has to offer. There is an entire website dedicated to finding scholarships that fit each student. There are also programs to help students find jobs before and after graduation.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have met some of my closest friends through study groups. I have also connected with people in clubs and at school events. 

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 Circle K International and the Chemistry Club. My role on the executive board for both clubs has taught me how to better collaborate with peers and be a better problem-solver. I have met many amazing and intelligent peers that inspire me to do my best. Many of the upperclassmen in these clubs have given me advice about classes and life in general.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you succeed? And how?
I have used the MyScholarships portal and the NIU job portal for students and alumni. I have been able to get a few jobs through the school and get information about scholarships. MyScholarships is the resource I used to get more information about the BELONG in STEM scholarship.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors so far has been Dr. Daryl Dugas for EPS 406. I felt heard and learned a lot about myself in this class. Our class really connected with the course material and with each other. I looked forward to the class every week.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Going to class is important! Being in class helps you stay active in your leaning. Missing even one class can cause you to do it more often. I motivate myself to go to classes I might be tempted to skip by scheduling something before or after the class. For example, every Monday before my 8 a.m. class I would meet a friend to get breakfast.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is probably Founders Memorial Library or the Holmes Student Center. They both have some great study spots.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Some advice I would give is to take it slow. It’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do or where you’re going. It’s important to take classes you’re interested in to figure out what you want to do for the rest of your life. The first two years of college is the best time to explore your interests and goals. Join clubs you find interesting. You never know how it might impact your life or your goals.

Why is a college education important to you?
Without a college education, I couldn’t pursue the career I'm passionate about. 

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I make sure to organize my assignments and other responsibilities using a planner. When I have free time, I try to meet with my friends or go to school events.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I use the event calendar to keep track of events on campus. Every month I try to look and decide what events I may be interested in. This makes it easier to work fun events into my schedule. I also try to learn about events for the clubs and organizations my friends are associated with. I try to support my friends as much as possible.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I have always been a creative person, so doing something creative helps me reset. Recently I've been learning to crochet. I’ve made some amazing things so far, and it's satisfying when I get to see the result of a project I've been wanting to try. Spending time with friends is also something that helps me recharge after a stressful week.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
As I said before, I love to crochet. I also enjoy watching horror and science fiction movies. One of my favorite movies is “World War Z.” As of right now, I work as a desk assistant and community advisor (CA) in Stevenson Towers. Being a CA has been a great experience. I enjoy helping my residents feel comfortable and providing resources to help them be the best version of themselves.