Katie Nepil

Katie Nepil is a transfer mathematical sciences and statistics double major from St. Charles, IL

Hometown: St. Charles, IL

High School: St. Charles North High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

Minors: Economics and sports analytics

Transfer from: Elgin Community College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
I chose to attend NIU because it is very close to my family and because of its affordability.

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 Transfer Merit Scholarship, the Hardgrove Mathematics Scholarship and the Kovacevich Scholarship for my academics and commitment to school.

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 an orthodontist but quickly realized that biology was not my strong suit, and now I am pursuing another path.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am double majoring in applied mathematics and statistics and minoring in economics and sports analytics. I decided to pursue these degrees because of my love for math. It has always come very naturally to me, and it’s what I love most.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
NIU has a very close community. I feel like I have the chance to get close with the people pursuing similar degrees because of the small class sizes and familiarity with one another.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have found most of my friendships and connections through having the same classes together. I have also met other people through jobs I have worked.

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 Women in Math and Math Club. I believe they both offer an extra level of support as we all try to get through the school year.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I believe that the Statistics Assistance Center (SAC) and the Mathematics Assistance Center (MAC) have both been very helpful for me when I am struggling with a course. They offer the support I need to be successful in my classes.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
I think talking through the classes with your advisors is really helpful as a transfer student because they can point you in the right direction to find what you are looking for.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
I received a scholarship through the Honors Program, and this has helped me to continue to pursue my educational goals. Without that financial support I wouldn’t be able to finish my degrees.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I think the Honors Program offers some really great opportunities to get involved on campus.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor has been Dr. Polansky because he does a really amazing job of breaking down the material and making it easy to understand. He also tried to make it as entertaining as possible, which makes the course even better!

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Regularly attending classes definitely helps me gain a better understanding of the material being taught, and it makes it easier to ask for help when you’re struggling because it shows you have been putting in effort to learn.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is Founders Memorial Library. I get most of my schoolwork done there, and it is a nice place to sit down and focus.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Choose a college that really speaks to what you are looking for in your college experience. Definitely take into account the degrees offered, the cost and what student life looks like at each college.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it will help me get the job I want. I also believe that my college education makes me a more well-rounded individual.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I try to make sure I stay on top of my schoolwork and get it all done before I leave campus so that when I get home, I can focus on my family and friends.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I check my email regularly and also look at flyers that are posted around the different buildings I go to throughout my day.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I love to have a self-care day and watch movies.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I currently work two jobs. I work as a tutor on campus at the Huskie Academic Success Center and on the weekends I work at Olive Garden.