Kaitlyn Costello

Kaitlyn Costello is a special education (orientation and mobility) graduate student from Sycamore, IL

Hometown: Sycamore, IL

High School: Sycamore High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2026

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
As kids, everyone wants to be a teacher at some point but not many pursue that dream. It wasn't until my senior year of high school that I knew I wanted to be a teacher for the visually impaired, and I cannot be more grateful I chose this path.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I finished my undergrad at NIU as a teacher for the visually impaired, and now I am starting my master’s in special education with a specialization in orientation and mobility, which is where you get to inform the visually impaired about travel safety. I chose this program because it goes hand-in-hand with being a teacher for the visually impaired, and you can provide students with different ways to get around that don’t include driving!

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The College of Education provides lots of experience even before going into student teaching, which is so important when working with children. I appreciated my clinicals and student teaching, which helped me better prepare myself for years to come.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
The vision program contains smaller cohorts, so you are able to connect with your peers and build a bond that continues into each other’s careers.

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 participated in Penguin Players my senior year of undergrad and wish I did it for longer. Penguin Players is such a great way to connect and meet new people. I highly recommend it for anyone considering.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
My professors in the vision program have always been by my side and guided me in the path toward success since the second I started at NIU.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Stacy Kelly is one of the most passionate people I have ever met, and her passion radiates to her students, including me. She provides fun and engaging classes and makes everyone who joins the program feel welcome. I wouldn't be a teacher for the visually impaired if it wasn't for her.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
When you attend class it sets you up for success, because you are getting all the information you need to help you with future classes. It's easy to get distracted, but I have benefited by the fact I now am teaching in the schools.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The East Lagoon is such a nice place to enjoy the water or have a picnic with friends. I think it is one of the prettiest spots on campus.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
NIU has lots of opportunities with majors, minors and clubs to help you get involved. I wish I was more involved throughout my years.

Why is a college education important to you?
You get to meet new people and professors while furthering your knowledge in something you are passionate about. It is also very rewarding to be in your career and apply something you have learned from college to your now-career and reality.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
It can get very overwhelming to manage my time. Having a planner and physically writing things down helped me a lot.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
By staying connected to my NIU email account and following many NIU Instagram pages.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I love to hammock, hike or just be outside with friends and family. Game nights have also been a staple throughout my college days and can help you recharge with others.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work with students ages 5-13. These students all have visual impairments, so I help accommodate their learning environments and make sure their needs are being met. It has been such an amazing year forming relationships with my students and learning from them. They never fail to put a smile on my face.