Grace McMillan

Grace McMillan is a transfer kinesiology major from Hampshire, IL

Hometown: Hampshire, IL

High School: Hampshire High School

Year: Expected graduation: spring 2026

Transfer from: Elgin Community College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
I chose NIU because it was the most cost friendly school and it had my desired program. NIU offers lots of ways to get involved, not only within my department, but also outside, such as the University Honors Program and all the clubs.

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received multiple scholarships through the Honors Program. I also received one from the NIU Alumni Association. I received this scholarship due to my active role as a student and expressing my Huskie pride. I am extremely grateful for this financial support because it has allowed me to focus more on my studies and not worry as much about the cost of my education.

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 veterinarian. However, as I got older, I found a new passion, which was to work with people. I am now pursuing a career in physical therapy.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is kinesiology. I decided to take on this course of study because I am very passionate about working with people and helping them achieve a healthier lifestyle.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I am pleasantly surprised at how many organizations and clubs there are on campus. There are options for just about anything and everything in relation to personal interests, hobbies and skillsets. I am part of the NIU Honors Program as a fellow, and I am president of the Archery Club.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I connect with other students mainly in person when we have class, or I ask for their contact information to connect outside the classroom. I met lots of new people by being involved in the Honors Program and the Archery Club. It allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and network.

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 a part of the NIU Honors Program as an Honors Fellow, and I am president of the Archery Club. Being in both of these have allowed me to grow as an individual and as a Huskie. Getting involved is one of the most preached-about things on campus, and it has positively impacted my experience to the fullest.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education has been extremely supportive and helped keep me on track to success. Providing a step-by-step list of what classes I need to take during what semester really helped me visualize what my coursework would entail.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
I definitely contact my academic and honors advisors to see what is available to me as a transfer student. They are the best resources to ask questions when I have an inquiry about a class and how that may impact my transfer status.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
I received many honors scholarships through the Honors Program. I am truly grateful for the financial support because it allowed me to focus on my education and not have to worry about how to pay. This has allowed me to have more time to study, meet with peers and be more involved on campus.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I love the NIU Honors Program. Being a member, and now an Honors Fellow, I was able to work on my networking skills. I met so many people through the Honors Program, and I am incredibly grateful that I met them.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Professor David Benner is my favorite instructor. I have had him for several classes. He teaches physical activity courses and is the instructor of my gerontology clinical at Oak Crest. He is also the advisor of the Archery Club, and I am president of that club.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class is the most beneficial way to ensure you understand the topics to the fullest and get one-on-one time with the instructors. I am able to comprehend the course material a lot better due to the explanations of my professors.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus has to be the library. It has everything I need in order to complete my assignments. It is nice and quiet when I need to focus. It has a bagel shop in the basement when I get hungry and a tutoring center if I need a little extra help. It truly has it all!

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Talking to your professors and peers allows insight when trying to learn about a potential college. Gaining different perspectives can help expand your knowledge of what colleges you may be interested in. And it may even influence your overall decision.

Why is a college education important to you?
Obtaining a college education opens so many doors to future careers. It helps build critical thinking, allows networking opportunities and provides a foundation of skills for any line of work.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I utilize my Google calendar! Any time I hear word of an event, a class schedule change or a hangout with a friend, I can manage it all, as long as I have my calendar with me. It is such a vital tool, and it is so easy to use.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I read my email! There are so many opportunities available through the “Weekly Scroll.” I also pay attention to the flyers that are available on campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I love to go for walks, and I like to spend time with my family. Even if we are not doing anything together, I just feel relaxed with their presence.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work at Athletico Physical Therapy Clinic. I greatly enjoy working alongside the physical therapists by helping them with patient care. One of my hobbies is archery. I am the Archery Club president here at NIU, and it has been such a fun start of the year so far.