Katherine Lavoie

Katherine Lavoie is an accountancy major from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2022

Major: Accountancy

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
While growing up, I knew that I wanted to have a career in the business field. I never knew exactly what area of business until I had to do research on a career that I was interested in during middle school, and I chose accounting. After doing research on it, I decided that I was interested in it and am now pursuing it as my major.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am majoring in accounting. Once I learned more about the field for a research project in middle school, I knew that it would make a great career. I took a basic accounting course at Kishwaukee College and loved it, which is why I’m majoring in it now.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One thing I have found pleasantly surprising about NIU is how many new people you can meet. During each semester at NIU, I have had the opportunity to meet new friends through classes and extracurriculars, and I maintain contact with them even if we no longer see each other in class.

How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Staying connected is difficult online. One thing that is really great is having group chats for clubs, Discords for each major and maintaining current relationships through Zoom meetings.

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 involved in Leaders in Ethics and Academic Discipline (the College of Business ethics club), the College of Business Dean’s Student Advisory Board and the Student Accountancy Society (SAS). I am also an honors student. Being part of different groups is a great way to get involved at NIU. It has helped me expand my skillset and knowledge of my major, as well as expand my network.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite instructors was Madelyn Anderson, who was my communications professor, because she was not only a great instructor, but she also encouraged us to participate in NIU events and volunteer in the community.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the fountain behind Barsema Hall. It is a great place to go between classes and relax while also not being too far away.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Some advice that I would give is to try to make connections to people. It is a great way to learn more about the college, and it also makes transitioning into college easier because they are a great source of advice, especially if they are in the same major.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
The biggest thing that I have had to do differently is focus more on the big picture. College is not just about getting perfect grades and learning about your field, it is about creating a network, figuring out what kind of life you want to live and your personal values that will shape your future.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to crochet, and whenever I have a few hours of free time, I like to go hiking.