Madeline Miller

Madeline Miller is a Master of Music student with specialization in music performance from McHenry, IL

Hometown: McHenry, IL

High School: McHenry Community High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2026

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 more than anything growing up. I wanted to help animals and always be around them, but I ended up getting my degree in music performance, and I wouldn't change that for the world!

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in music performance. When I was deciding on my undergrad degree, I realized that my true love was music. I wanted to perform, and I wanted to teach, so I decided to continue through music so I can do just that.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I love how accepting and helpful all the professors have been. I can go up to any of them with any problem, and they are always willing to help.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have met some of the best people I have ever met at this university, including one of my best friends. Ironically, studying for our music theory course was the reason we met!

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Disability Resource Center has been amazing. I have severe ADHD, and they have been so great with helping me get my testing accommodations and making me feel welcome and safe.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Megan Bailey is probably one of my favorite instructors. She is our trumpet professor and coached the quintet I was in last year. She is always nice and helpful. I also get a lot of insightful information every time we have a conversation.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I make it to every class unless I am sick. Even if I am going to be running late I show up!

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love the East Lagoon. I really like to be around nature, and it really makes me feel calm when I need a break from the craziness of school.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
I would probably tell them to explore outside what you're comfortable with. I always recommend applying to at least one out-of-state school and one that’s close to home to have options. I applied to three schools within two to four hours from home, and then the others were all out of state. I ended up going to the University of Memphis for my undergrad, and it was probably the best thing I've ever done!

Why is a college education important to you?
It is important because I want to be knowledgeable. I want to be able to teach and give that knowledge to my students. It has also taught me important life lessons that I would never have gotten if I didn't get my college education.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use my agenda like crazy. I buy a new one every year and make sure I keep track of everything. It makes it easier to plan things and carve out time for specific things as well as time to just rest!

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
My email is my best friend; without it I wouldn't know when anything was going on, especially with how diligent NIU is about sending out when events are happening.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I've been going on walks or hikes with my dog, which has been really refreshing after a long week or two.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am a server on the side to pay for outside things, like rent or other bills, but I really love to play video games when I have time and don't have a lot of homework or performances going on. I also really enjoy crocheting, which is really relaxing when it’s late and I need to just exist.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I am just happy to have the honor of being here at NIU!