Kara Murphy

Kara Murphy is a mathematical sciences and statistics double major from Elburn, IL

Hometown: Elburn, IL

High School: Kaneland High School

Year: Expected graduation: spring 2026

Minor: Computer science

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received the NIU Merit Scholarship due to my high GPA when I graduated high school. This has been a tremendous help because it has lightened the financial burden that comes with attending a university. I have been able to focus more on my studies and hobbies rather than stress about money thanks to the scholarship.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Growing up, I wanted to be a scientist. Vague, I know, but I didn't realize how vast the scientific world is. I loved watching science shows when I was little, such as “Bill Nye” and “MythBusters.” Once I got to high school, it became clear that at the foundation of every science was mathematics, which is what I am studying today.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am a double major studying statistics and applied mathematics with a minor in computer science. I initially began at NIU studying only statistics. I love statistics because I believe statistics tell a story with numbers. As I got further in my degree, my advisor recommended I double major in math since so many of the classes overlap. When I graduate, I hope to pursue a career in statistics or data analysis, and since I have some free space in my schedule, I am getting a minor in computer science.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One thing that I found pleasantly surprising was how many ways there are to get involved! From clubs to tutoring to research to volunteering, there is a place for everyone on campus to feel welcome. I love finding new opportunities to get involved on Huskie Hub, which shows all registered events on campus that are open to students.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I met most of my friends through studying for classes and attending clubs on campus. As an introvert, I found it hard to open myself up to talk to new people, but it was worth it! I gained confidence and made lots of new friends by putting myself out there and meeting new people on campus.

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 the internal vice president of the Society of Women Engineers and the secretary of Women in Math. They are great clubs that host a variety of events that build social, professional and technical skills. I have learned a lot of leadership and professional skills by getting involved and have made a lot of friends and networking connections.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I cannot recommend the Math Assistance Center (MAC) and the Statistics Assistance Center (SAC) enough. They are great resources that help students with understanding coursework and working through homework problems. Both centers have experts in each area of the subject and are a great support system to get through difficult classes.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite classes was Calculus I with Julie Steranka my freshman year. Julie is a phenomenal instructor; she cares about all of her students and wants to make sure they do well and understand the concepts. She recently completed her Ph.D. dissertation and no longer teaches at NIU, but she made a big impact during her time here.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I am able to ask my professors questions in class, and I have a deeper understanding of the course content with a face-to-face lecture than if I skipped class and attempted to teach myself. Not only do I do better in the class, but I meet new people who support me within the class. It gives me the opportunity to form new friendships and study groups.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
In my free time, I love hanging out at Cast Iron Coffee. It is a short walk from DuSable Hall, where most of my classes are held, and their menu has something for everyone. I love trying their seasonal drinks. It is a great study spot with friendly vibes and just an overall great place to spend time.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When you're first applying to schools, apply everywhere! It's always good to keep your options open. There are lots of things to consider when applying to schools: housing, food, distance from home, campus culture, local jobs, etc. Once you've researched all of these factors, I recommend going with your gut. Deep down, you know what you're looking for and what is best for you.

Why is a college education important to you?
Attending college opens up a plethora of new opportunities for your career. There are so many ways to gain experience and get involved during your degree program, and it makes you more appealing to hiring managers. One thing my parents taught me was that if you happen to go through a disaster and lose all of your possessions, the one thing that can never be taken from you is your education. A college education is valuable and beneficial for everyone.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
In order to keep track of my assignments, quizzes and exams, I put all of my projects into a monthly calendar on my phone. I think it is convenient because I am likely to check it often, and it holds me accountable for all of my responsibilities. I encourage myself to get assignments done ahead of time so I can spend more time with my friends and family outside of work and school.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
At the beginning of each week, the NIU Instagram account posts highlights on their story about upcoming events happening around campus. I look forward to seeing how I can get involved and find new experiences each week. I also recommend checking out Huskie Hub. It is a great resource that shows all upcoming events that have been registered that are open to all students.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and continuing our weekly Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) campaign. When I want to relax, I enjoy painting D&D miniatures while watching movies. For STEM students, I think it is important to find creative hobbies to have an artistic outlet and find a balance.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
When I'm not on campus, you can find me decorating cakes at Jewel-Osco. I've been a cake decorator for over four years, and I find that it is a great creative outlet when I spend most of my day studying for my STEM classes. If I'm not at work, I will be playing D&D with my friends on the weekends.