Nick Kane

Nick Kane is an online Master of Public Health (MPH) student from Lake Carroll, IL

Hometown: Lake Carroll, IL

Class of: 2024

Transfer from: Highland Community College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
Program choice

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Initially, I wanted to pursue a career in physical therapy, inspired by my sister, Sidney Kingery, PT, DPT, an NIU alumna. Currently, I am enrolled in the Master of Public Health program, class of 2024.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m currently in the Master of Public Health program. Although physical therapy was an option, I chose my current program because I wanted to make a personal impact on my community and provide health education to those in need.

What has your experience as an online student at NIU been like?
My experience has been great. The program is easy to manage, and all the professors, instructors, and advisors are always willing to help and respond promptly.

What has benefited you most as an online student?
The flexibility to balance work and complete assignments on my own schedule has been incredibly beneficial. Most of my classmates juggle full-time jobs, children, and other responsibilities. It's reassuring to see professors accommodating these realities, which contributes to the program's success and positive outcomes for years to come.

What is your number one tip for students thinking about online education?
If you commit to an online program, make sure to fully utilize the resources available. The exceptional staff at NIU are there to help you learn, so take the time to thoroughly understand and engage with the material presented.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I've connected with other students through study groups, campus events and student organizations. Participating in group study sessions has not only helped me better understand course material, but also allowed me to 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 participated in student online representative programs to support the success of online courses. Additionally, I was involved in student health service management groups, which helped me further my education in my specialization.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The kinesiology department and public health program at NIU have been instrumental in helping me feel safe, supported and successful. The kinesiology department provided valuable resources and guidance, enhancing my understanding of physical health and wellness. Meanwhile, the public health program offered extensive academic support and opportunities for practical experience, enriching my education and professional development. Both areas have created a supportive environment that has significantly contributed to my overall success at NIU.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
The transfer-specific resources at NIU have been incredibly helpful in my success. Everything was very easy to navigate, and the orientations provided essential information and guidance. These resources ensured a smooth transition and helped me integrate seamlessly into the NIU community.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Two of my favorite instructors/professors at NIU have been David Benner and Dr. Jennifer Gray. David Benner, who taught KNPE 463 and 493, was incredibly informative and had a unique ability to help students come out of their shells. His engaging teaching style made complex topics more accessible and enjoyable. Professor Dr. Jennifer Gray, who taught PHHE 655 and PHHE 661, was very thorough in her teaching, and I greatly appreciated her expertise. Her classes were always insightful, and she fostered a deep understanding of the subject matter.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has been highly beneficial for me. I never miss a day of class because I believe that even one day missed is a loss of valuable educational material. Consistent attendance has ensured that I stay on top of the coursework, fully understand the material, and actively participate in discussions and activities, all of which have significantly enhanced my learning experience.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot would have to be Oak Crest Retirement Center in DeKalb. I've worked there as a graduate assistant for two years, and being able to interact with former NIU professors and hear their stories has been truly life changing. The wealth of knowledge and wisdom they possess is remarkable, and I've learned so much from them. It's a place where I feel a deep connection to the community and where I can continuously grow both personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When researching colleges to apply to, my advice would be to prioritize what makes you feel comfortable and what programs genuinely interest you. College is not just about academics; it's also about the overall experience and opportunities for personal growth. Choose a college where you can see yourself thriving academically, socially and personally. Don't focus solely on rankings or prestige; instead, consider factors such as campus culture, extracurricular activities and support services available. Ultimately, make the decision that aligns best with your goals and aspirations, and that will help you build a strong foundation for your future.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it equips me with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue my career goals and succeed in today's competitive job market. Additionally, it offers valuable opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery, while also serving as a significant investment in my future earning potential and overall well-being.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I've adopted a time management strategy learned from Dr. Gray's class, where I allocate five, 10 or 15 minutes to plan my day. This ensures I prioritize tasks effectively and leave room for self-care. Recognizing that each day is dynamic, I remain flexible and maintain a positive mindset, understanding that adaptability is key to balancing school, work and personal life responsibilities.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I primarily stay informed about events and services available on campus through word of mouth and campus emails. Keeping in touch with fellow students and faculty members helps me stay up to date on upcoming events, while campus emails provide official announcements and information about available services.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I enjoy a variety of activities. Exercising helps me clear my mind and boosts my mood, while learning to make sourdough bread allows me to engage in a creative and fulfilling hobby.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Currently, I intern for the Carroll and Stephenson County Health Departments, where I'm involved in various activities aimed at ensuring the well-being of both counties' residents. While my career aspirations lean toward the management side, this internship exposes me to various positions within public health and their significant impact on the community. I've developed a deep appreciation for the dedication of these health departments, who work tirelessly despite receiving little recognition.