Luke Harmon

Luke Harmon is a theatre design and technology major from Genoa, IL

Hometown: Genoa, IL

Class Of: 2021

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
Yes, a Merit Scholarship from NIU and tuition waivers from the School of Theatre and Dance. Being able to get a scholarship based on how I did in high school and community college made a large impact on my experience here at NIU giving me more peace of mind while pursuing my studies. 

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 was unsure which direction I wanted to go in terms of a career. After a wonderful experience of being involved with the performing arts throughout high school and community theatre, I chose to make that as a career as something that I enjoy and find very fulfilling.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is Theatre Design and Technology. I chose to attend NIU after getting hired to do some work at Elgin Community College. I came across many former and current NIU students showing their skills that they learned in the program and applying it to their early careers right out of college.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
How inspiring and motivated the students are in my department — all actors, dancers and technicians. Each one of them has different life experiences. Every day around them always inspires and motivates me to push myself to learn more about my field and to try new things!

How have you connected with other students at NIU?
I have connected to many different students at NIU, from my Work Study jobs as a Northern Ambassador and Scene Shop employee to having rehearsals at night working with student actor and technicians to put a play every semester. I have gotten to know quite a few people in a short amount of time.

Are you involved in any student organizations or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am a member of the NIU School of Theatre and Dance’s Student Advisory Committee that produces many events such as poetry nights, talent nights as well as a stress-free week of events during finals. I am also involved in The Third Onion Productions, a student-driven production group that puts out plays written and performed by the SoTD students.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Sahin Sahinoglu is one of the most memorable professors; he teaches scenic design and drawing for theatre. Sahin understands from day one that no one is an expert in drawing or design, and he works closely with each student on their progress of each project regardless of their experience.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot would be anywhere in Founders Memorial Library; it has computer labs, lots of space to hang out and study, as well as a Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bros. Bagels in the basement. Also, it is close to the central part of campus.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Plan a visit to stop by the college of your choosing. You will be spending four years with them. Asking as many questions as you can will let you know if it’s a good fit for you.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
I had to learn how to restructure my time management — when to get things done and balancing out my studies, work, and rest, as well as learning my limits when to work on stuff and when to take a break.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to cook when I am at home as well as read, juggle, and perform Improv occasionally.