Bliss Eash

Bliss Eash is a transfer human development and family sciences major, from Rockton, IL

Hometown: Rockton, IL

Class Of: 2023

Transfer from: Carroll University

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 wanted to be a pediatric nurse. I worked really hard in high school to prepare myself for my intended major; I got my CNA and started working at a hospital near my hometown. While in the nursing program at Carroll University, I realized I wanted to work more hands-on with children and make more of a difference in the community. I decided to transfer to NIU for the human development and family sciences program. 

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
Human development and family sciences with an emphasis in child development. I always wanted to work with children.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
During the short time I've been at NIU, I have noticed how diverse and strong the community is here. We are a pack and we stick together, no matter what! 

How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Coming back this semester with the COVID-19 pandemic has made it very difficult to make friends, but through some of my child development classes I was able to meet a few new people on campus. I joined NIU's Student Council on Family Relations and made a few additional friends. 

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?
This semester I joined NIU's Student Council on Family Relations, which is a student-run group that facilitates program-related events focusing on research, family issues and policy concerns. 

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor has to be Dahlia Roman, the family coordinator of the NIU Child Development and Family Center. She briefly taught my child development class this semester. She always made me excited to come to class. She brightens the room and is an easy person to talk to.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love going to the Starbucks in the Holmes Student Center. Not only is the coffee delicious, but the environment helps me stay focused and get my work done. 

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
College is a time of firsts. Students take their first steps away from home onto college campuses and decide how to begin their careers. My advice to future students is to do your research, shadow people in the career you want and have fun.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Coming to college, I had to learn how to do a lot of things on my own. There wasn't someone to hold my hand along the way. I didn't have someone constantly by my side, and I think I learned a lot about myself. College is where you find yourself, right? Well I did, and it was something I didn't expect! 

What do you do to relax or recharge?
After a long and stressful day of work and school, I take time out of my day to make sure I can unwind at the gym. I listen to music and just let all my problems go away for an hour. Self-care is important; you need to take care of your body so you can be the successful individual you want to be.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I'm so proud to be a Huskie. I love working at the Child Development and Family Center, and I'm so thankful for the opportunities they have given me. I can't wait to see what my future holds, and I'm happy to have begun my journey here at NIU!