Angelina Gutierrez

Angelina Gutierrez is an anthropology and history double major from Minooka, IL

Hometown: Minooka, IL

High School: Minooka Community High School

Year: Expected graduation: spring 2027

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I have received the Oscar Matasar History Scholarship for academic success in my major. I have received the Honors Excellence Scholarship through the University Honors Program for my participation and academic success. I also received the max GPA scholarship available and scholarship money for participating in the Huskie Marching Band. These scholarships are the main reason I attended NIU and have allowed me to continue my academic success while being able to worry about money less.

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 wanted to be an astronaut growing up; I am no longer considering this and have shifted toward the liberal arts.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am an anthropology (B.S.) and history (B.A.) double major. I always excelled in social studies in school and wanted to use my knowledge to educate others and conduct ethical research.

Have you conducted an internship?
Yes

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
I applied for an internship with the Elmhurst History Museum for the summer of 2024. After receiving recommendations from my history professors and completing an interview with the museum, I was selected for my well-roundedness and professionalism.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
I had been wrestling with the idea of working in a museum, and after working in this internship, I have a better understanding of what education I would need to make this happen.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The amount of resources at NIU has been so surprising and helpful as I navigate my future.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
For the most part, I have participated in honors events to further my connections and meet new people.

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 in the Huskie Marching Band Drumline. I cannot imagine my experience at NIU without this activity. It has led me to so many new people!

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
My academic advisor has been my backbone through my college experience. Anytime I have a new, crazy idea of something else I want to add to my plate, she always helps me figure out how to make it happen.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The scholarships and mentoring provided through the University Honors Program have helped me get closer to my career goals.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I love having access to fun events with like-minded people.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor so far has been Dr. Stanley Arnold. He always found a way to make lectures engaging, and I actually enjoyed the essays I had to write for his class. I took the History of Corporate America with this professor.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I have definitely benefited from attending class regularly! By attending class regularly, I know that I have not missed any topics, and I feel more confident when asking for help.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love the campus library! I always grew up going to libraries with my mom, and Founders Memorial Library is exceptional.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Look into the success of the program you are applying for. Just because a college is prestigious does not mean that your area of interest will be well-represented at that university.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it is absolutely necessary for survival in our society.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I block out specific chunks of time for my schoolwork, as well as my family and friends.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I use my email to stay informed.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to spend time with my friends, watch movies, play comfort games or just spend time alone to stay refreshed during the school season.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am currently working at Chipotle. Outside of my responsibilities, I am a big reader, I participate in indoor drumline during the winter and spring, and I love to do arts and crafts!