Sheyenne Lathrop

Sheyenne Lathrop is an online digital marketing graduate student from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

High School: Sycamore High School

Year: Expected graduation: Fall 2026

Transfer from: Kishwaukee Community College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
I chose to attend NIU because of its great business school and because it was local and affordable.

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 a doctor of some sort when I was growing up. I was a chemistry major before transferring to NIU, where I switched to marketing.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m pursuing my online master’s degree in digital marketing.

Have you conducted an internship? How did you get your internship, and where was it?
Yes. I applied for a marketing intern position with Family Service Agency in Dekalb, which is a nonprofit organization that helps the community in different ways.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
This internship helped me by exposing me to the different types of technology used in a business. It also helped me become more outgoing by talking to people through community outreach.

What has your experience as an online student at NIU been like?
Being an online student has been great. My classes have felt relaxed and have gone smoothly. The workload is manageable and the topics are very interesting to learn about.

What has benefited you most as an online student?
I have benefited from being an online student by having a flexible schedule and opportunities to meet others and learn about research-based education.

What is your number one tip for students thinking about online education?
Try it out! There is nothing wrong with seeing if it’s a good fit for you.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
It is a welcoming community with so many organizations to get involved in.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have connected with other students through classes and by not being afraid to ask to sit next to them. I just ask them about their story and what they’re studying.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The marketing and management departments. The teachers I have had in these departments are awesome at giving advice and just being available to have general conversations.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite instructors is James Gorham. He thought UBUS 110, which was a great class to experience. He was always willing to meet and talk, as well as give me a recommendation.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I have stayed on top of my studies, remained organized and had the chance to learn something I’m interested in.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
I would say to target the major you are wanting to pursue. Look at the colleges that are the best in that area and focus on that major.

Why is a college education important to you?
It’s a pathway to many opportunities besides having a degree. It opens doors to making connections and making new friends.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use a planner and calendar on my phone to track everything I have going on.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I subscribe to the NIU newsletter.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I go shopping or hang out with friends.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I’m currently a server at Texas Roadhouse, which has helped me gain experience in sales. I don’t have many hobbies, but I enjoy traveling.